Can I Do CA After B. Com? Everything You Need to Know

Many B. Com graduates are at a crossroads post degree completion. Into that picture steps Chartered Accountancy (CA) which is very popular and very fulfilling. It presents itself as a platform for a career in accounting, auditing, tax and corporate finance.
If you put out there that you are asking if “Can I do CA after B. Com”, we say most definitely you can. In this blog we take you through it all regarding pursuing CA after B. Com which includes eligibility, application process, subjects, benefits, and career scope

What is Chartered Accountancy?

Chartered Accountancy is a professional programme that includes accounting, audit, tax, financial reporting and business laws. In India and the world over CAs are very much respected.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is the body that sets forth the course content and regulates the program. To become a Chartered Accountant which is what completing the CA qualification is about you study practical finance and outwork complex legal and business issues.
Chartered Accountants serve businesses that range from the small scale to the large. In their roles which are many and diverse they also play very important roles.

Role of ICAI

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) is the official governing body for the CA profession in India. ICAI was set up under the Chartered Accountants Act of 1949.
ICAI is responsible for:

  • Conducting CA exams
  • Issuing certifications
  • Setting accounting and auditing standards
  • Regulating the profession across India

It is the biggest professional accounting body in the world which has a member base of over 3.6 lakh as of 2024. ICAI is the body that sees to the integrity and quality of the CA profession in India.

Levels of CA Course in India

The CA course consists of three main levels. Each level has its own subjects, exams, and requirements.

  • CA Foundation – Entry-level exam for 12th pass students.
  • CA Intermediate (IPCC) – For graduates or those who clear the Foundation exam.
  • CA Final – Last and most advanced stage of the CA journey.

Along with these, 3 years of article ship training is also mandatory.

Can You Do CA After B. Com?

Yes, of course you can. Also, it is a known fact that the B. Com graduates have an edge. You may skip the CA Foundation level and jump in at the Intermediate level. This option is what we call the Direct Entry Scheme.
This we have put together for graduates in Commerce. As B. Com course includes subjects of accounting, tax, and business law which in turn are related to CA subjects we have designed this for them.
Many students go for this option which is a 6 to 12-month preparation savings. ICAI has recognized the value of a commerce degree, and we present this fast-track option to eligible students.

Eligibility Criteria for CA After B. Com

To apply for CA through the Direct Entry Route after B. Com, you need to fulfil specific criteria set by ICAI.
Here are the conditions:

  • You must have a B. Com degree from a recognized university.
  • You should have scored at least 55% marks in your B. Com (for commerce graduates).
  • For non-commerce graduates, the minimum requirement is 60% marks.
  • There is no age limit to apply.
  • Make sure your university is UGC-recognized and your final year marksheet is available.

How to Apply for CA After B. Com?

Applying for the CA course after B. Com is simple if you follow the right steps. Here’s a step-by-step process:

  • Step 1: Register under ICAI’s Direct Entry Scheme via the official ICAI website.
  • Step 2: Complete the ICITSS training (4 weeks) – Includes Orientation Course and Information Technology Training (ITT).
  • Step 3: Register for the CA Intermediate course.
  • Step 4: Begin Article ship training (3 years) under a practicing Chartered Accountant.
  • Step 5: Appear for CA Intermediate exams (2 groups).
  • Step 6: After clearing both groups, register for CA Final course.
  • Step 7: Complete Advanced ICITSS training and appear for CA Final exams.
  • Step 8: Clear both groups of CA Final to become a qualified Chartered Accountant. 

Subjects You Will Study in CA (Post-B. Com)

As a B. Com graduate, many of the subjects in CA Intermediate and Final will be familiar to you. Here is the core subjects covered:

CA Intermediate (2 Groups):

  • Accounting
  • Corporate & Other Laws
  • Cost and Management Accounting
  • Taxation
  • Advanced Accounting
  • Auditing and Assurance
  • Enterprise Information Systems & Strategic Management
  • Financial Management & Economics for Finance

CA Final (2 Groups):

  • Financial Reporting
  • Strategic Financial Management
  • Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics
  • Corporate and Economic Laws
  • Strategic Cost Management and Performance Evaluation
  • Direct Tax Laws and International Taxation
  • Indirect Tax Laws
  • Elective Paper (Risk Management, Financial Services, etc.)

Learn About RNTU’s B. Com Course Here: Bachelor of Commerce (B. Com) College in Bhopal 

Duration to Become a CA After B. Com

The total duration to become a CA after B. Com is approximately 3 to 3.5 years, depending on your progress and exam success rate.
Here's a typical timeline:

  • Intermediate Preparation: 8–10 months
  • Article ship Training: 3 years (can begin before clearing both groups)
  • Final Exam Preparation: Last 6 months of article ship

If you pass each level in the first attempt, you can become a CA within 3 to 3.5 years after B. Com.

Benefits of Doing CA After B. Com

There are several advantages to pursuing CA after your B. Com degree:

  • Direct entry saves time – No need for Foundation exam.
  • Strong academic basefrom B. Com helps in CA subjects.
  • High demand for qualified CAs in India and abroad.
  • Excellent salary potential and job security.
  • Opportunities to work independently as a consultant or auditor.
  • Respected profession with global recognition.
  • Diverse career options in taxation, audit, compliance, finance, and advisory.

Career Opportunities After Completing CA

Chartered Accountants are needed in almost every industry. From startups to multinational corporations, their skills are always in demand.
Here are some of the top roles you can pursue:

  • Auditor
  • Tax Consultant
  • Financial Analyst
  • Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
  • Corporate Advisor
  • Internal Auditor
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Banking and Financial Services roles
  • Government departments and PSUs
  • Independent practice or consultancy
  • The average starting salary for a CA in India is between ₹7 – ₹10 LPA, and it can go much higher with experience.
  • Related Blog: Top 10 Jobs After B. Com and Their Salary Packages

FAQs About Doing CA After B. Com

Many students have doubts before beginning the CA journey after B. Com. Here are some frequently asked questions:
Q1. Can I do CA while working or studying postgrad?
Yes, I did say that which also includes the element of discipline and time management. CA is a tough course. In terms of post grad (like in MBA or M. Com) do put in adequate time for your CA studies. Steers clear of full-time jobs until your CA prep is where it should be.
Q2. What is the success rate of CA after B. Com?
CA exams are tough. In terms of pass rates for CA Intermediate they are around 15 25% and for CA Final 10 20%. Also B. Com graduates do well in these exams which is a result of their academic base in finance and accounting.
Q3. Is it better to do CA with or after B. Com?
Both options are available. I have done B. Com along with CA which saved me time. But going for CA after B. Com allows for in depth preparation. Also, you get eligibility for direct entry into CA Intermediate.
Q4. Can I skip CA Foundation after B. Com?
Yes. If you meet the eligibility criteria (minimum 55% in B. Com), you can directly register for CA Intermediate. This is known as the Direct Entry Scheme.
Q5. How many attempts are allowed for CA Intermediate and Final?
There is no limit to the number of attempts. Also, your registration is good for 4 years for Intermediate and 5 years for Final which upon expiration will require renewal.

Conclusion

Pursuing CA after B. Com is a great choice for those interested in a finance-oriented career. The Direct Entry program also does away with the basics and jumps into advanced material which in turn uses up less time and applies what you already know.
Yes, it’s hard but the reward is great. With dedication and the right preparation, you may become a successful Chartered Accountant.

Enrol in B. Com at Rabindranath Tagore University Today

Planning to become a CA? Begin with a strong B. Com foundation from Rabindranath Tagore University (RNTU). We are one of the best B. Com colleges in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Our B. Com program is tailored to prepare you for professional courses like CA, CS, and CMA.
Get expert faculty, ICAI-aligned curriculum, and hands-on training to excel in your CA journey. Enrol now and take your first step towards a prestigious and high-paying career in finance.

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