CA Course Details 2024: Full Form, Duration, Exam & Syllabus

The Chartered Accountancy (CA) course remains one of India’s premier professional qualifications for accounting and finance professionals, boasting one of the highest pass rates among accounting schools worldwide. Established in 2024, this rigorous and comprehensive program equips students with all of the skills and knowledge required for success in the accounting profession. This post on the CA Course Details gives important insights into duration, exam structure and syllabus so aspiring chartered accountants understand how they can achieve such an esteemed certification.

CA Course Details

The CA, or the Chartered Accountancy course, is a professional exam conducted by the ICAI. The exam has three levels, which include CA Foundation, CA Intermediate, and CA Final. Besides these levels, CA aspirants will also undergo some compulsory practical training that is an integral part of the CA course. 

The CA course has two routes to register: one via the CA Foundation route and the other via the Direct Entry route. The CA Foundation route is open for students who have passed their Class 12th examinations, and the Direct entry route is open for students who have completed their graduation/post-graduation. However, they must meet the required eligibility criteria to register for the exams. 

Other CA course details after the 12th are mentioned in the table below and we will be covering the necessary details throughout this post. 

Why Pursue a CA Course?

Pursuing a Chartered Accountancy (CA) course offers many advantages for those interested in accounting and finance. Students who are looking for the CA Course Details must know the reasons to pursue the CA course:

• Notably, CA qualifications are globally esteemed and recognized, opening doors to numerous career prospects such as public practice accounting firms, industry, government services, and education. Additionally, as financial experts, their expertise can often be called upon in many sectors of society.
• One of the main appeals of taking a CA course is the comprehensive knowledge and skill base it imparts, covering topics like accounting, auditing, taxation, financial management, and corporate laws. This comprehensive course ensures that CA professionals possess all of the expertise needed to handle complex financial scenarios while offering invaluable insights for businesses and individuals alike.
• Another significant benefit of taking a CA course is its potential to pave the way to an exciting career path. Chartered Accountants typically command high salaries with plenty of room for advancement; demand remains strong due to constantly evolving financial regulations as businesses strive to keep accurate accounting records that comply with legal obligations and remain compliant.
• Becoming a CA also ensures job security and stability; CA training imparts skills that remain pertinent regardless of changes to the economic climate, making CAs indispensable assets to businesses that will require their expertise on an ongoing basis.
• The CA course encourages both personal and professional growth by demanding dedication, hard work, and perseverance – qualities highly prized across any career field.

Pursuing a CA course is a wise step towards building an esteemed career in accounting and finance, offering global recognition, comprehensive knowledge, high earning potential, job security and personal advancement – making this course attractive for many aspiring professionals.

Who Can Pursue A CA Course?

Chartered Accountancy (CA) courses are open to a range of students. However, students must meet certain eligibility requirements. In general, anyone who has completed their higher secondary education (Class 12) can be eligible for this course.

Students who have completed their graduation/post-graduation with the required marks can also be eligible for the CA course. However, they must check the necessary CA course details before completing the registration process.  

After graduating Class 12, CA students begin with the CA Foundation exam – an entry-level test designed for any subject in any discipline. However, most beginners find a background in commerce advantageous, given its foundation in accounting and finance.

Graduates and postgraduates of any discipline can pursue the CA course, with graduates having the option of bypassing the Foundation level to enter directly Intermediate through the Direct Entry route.

However, academic qualifications alone don’t guarantee success in becoming a CA course student. Dedication and hard work are equally important since CA curriculum demands are rigorous. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities are necessary to understand complex financial scenarios and make informed decisions; attention to detail and accuracy are also essential in accounting work. Hence, candidates must go through all the necessary CA course details and then make a decision. 

Eligibility Criteria for Each Level of the CA Course

When covering the CA course details, it is essential that aspirants also cover the eligibility criteria for all three levels. So in this CA Course Guide, here is everything to know about the eligibility criteria:

CA Foundation Eligibility or Chartered Accountancy via the Direct Route

To be eligible for the CA Foundation exams:

• Students must have passed the Class 12th exams or its equivalent recognized by the Central Government.
• They must register before the stipulated deadline to be eligible for the exams.
• To be eligible for the CA Foundation level, students must also register under the Board of Studies [BOS] portal and complete a four-month study period.

Chartered Accountant course via the Direct Entry Route

• Under this entry route for the Chartered Accountant course, graduates/postgraduates with at least 55% aggregate or equivalent score from a Commerce background can apply.
• Graduates/postgraduates from a non-commerce background must score at least 60% in aggregate or its equivalent grade in examinations conducted by any recognized University (including Open Universities).
• Candidates in their final year of graduation may also register provisionally for the Intermediate course on a provisional basis. Registration would become permanent only upon providing proof that their mark sheet or passing certificate from the final year graduation exams has been submitted within six months of appearing, along with successful completion of an ICITSS (Orientation Course and Information Technology System Solutions Service) orientation course and examination within their provisional registration period. During the provisional registration period, candidates can complete the ICITSS.

How to Become a CA in India?

When checking the CA Course Details, you must also know how to become a CA in India. Let’s understand the process:

So, there are two pathways to becoming a CA – one via the CA Foundation route and the other through the direct entry route. We will have a detailed look at both ways:

If you have completed and passed the 12th class exam, consider taking the CA Foundation Route. After you clear the CA Foundation exams, you can take the CA Intermediate, complete the necessary training, and then take the CA Final exams.

However, if you are a graduate or a postgraduate, the direct entry route is also an option to bypass CA Foundation exams and directly register for CA Intermediate Exams.

Let’s check how to become a CA:

Steps to Become CA Through the CA Foundation Route

Follow these steps to become a Chartered Accountant through the CA Foundation route:

1. Complete the CA Foundation registration and then clear the examination.
2. Once you clear the CA Foundation Exams, register for the CA Intermediate Exams.
3. Once you clear both the CA Intermediate Exams groups, apply for the CA Articleship.
4. Complete the 2 Years of Articleship Training.
5. Also, you must complete the ICITSS ( Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills), AICITSS (Advanced Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills) and Orientation Course. 
6. After completing Articleship Training, register yourself for the CA Final Exam.
7. Now, you must register for the CA Final exams and apply for the ICAI membership.

Steps to Become CA Through Direct Entry Route

Below are the CA course details for becoming a Chartered Accountant through the Direct Entry route:

1. Pass your graduation with at least 60% marks to qualify for CA Intermediate Direct Entry Route registration.
2. Register directly for the CA Intermediate Examinations.
3. Register and Complete 4 Weeks of the ICITSS Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills.
4. Pass both Groups of the CA Intermediate Exam, then register for 2-Year Articleship Training of CA Articles.
5. Next, complete the Articleship Training and register for the CA Final Examinations.
6. Before sitting the CA Final Examinations, complete 15 Days of the Advanced Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills (AICITSS) and the Orientation Course.
7. Pass both groups of the CA Final Exams and apply for ICAI membership. 

Steps to Become a Chartered Accountant After Passing Intermediate-Level Exams of the ICSI or the ICAI

Below are the CA course details for registering for the CA Intermediate exams:

1. Register with ICAI for CA Intermediate. The CA Intermediate registration process remains unchanged for these students as it does for regular students.
2. Prepare for eight months and then sit for the CA Intermediate Examinations.
3. Now, sit for the exams and pass both groups.
4. Once you pass both CA Intermediate groups, enrol for the Articleship training for two years.
5. You can now register for the CA Final exams after you complete the Articleship and clear both groups.
6. Complete the AICITSS course during your final two years of practical training before taking the CA Final Examination.
7. Sit for the CA Final Exam, clear both groups and apply for ICAI membership. 

Passing Criteria for CA Foundation, Intermediate and Final Exams

The passing criteria for all CA exams are similar; to pass the CA Foundation course, students must score 50 per cent overall and 40 per cent in each subject.

Students taking Intermediate and Final Exams must achieve at least 40% in each section and 50% overall to pass and register for the next levels of Chartered Accountancy courses and become a CA.

CA Course Duration for Foundation, Inter and Final in 2024

The average duration of the CA program, involving articleship training, is 48 months. However, an extra six months will be imposed on the total time if any student misses/fails any of the CA tests. 

Here is the division of the duration of 2 years of the CA course:

• Preparation Period for CA Foundation: At Least four months.
• Waiting Period for CA Foundation Results: 2 months.
• Preparation Period for CA Intermediate: 8 months.
• Waiting Period for CA Intermediate Results: 2 months.
• Articleship Training: 24 months (as per the revised scheme).
• Preparation Period for CA Finals: 6 months.
• Waiting Period for CA Final Results: 2 months.

ICAI CA Course Fees for Foundation, Inter and Final

After the 12th class, CA Course fees will total Rs. 87,300, and graduate/postgraduate students pay a total of Rs 76,200. This total sum includes the registration and exam form fees, that apply to all the students. 

CA Course Registration

Candidates must visit the official ICAI page to enrol in the CA courses. The due dates for registration under the current scheme are as follows: 

• For CA Foundation September 2024: May 1, 2024
• The first exam under the revised plan: Foundation in June 2024, Intermediate and Final in May 2024.
• It should be noted that learners who registered for the Intermediate Course using the Foundation Method or the Direct Entry Method before January 1, 2024, are eligible for participation in the Intermediate Test in September of that same year.

Documents Required for the Registration of the CA Course

Foundation Level:

• Attested copy of the Class 12 exam’s MarkSheet/ Admit Card as granted by the relevant Board.
• One latest colour photo (attached to the hard copy of the completed online registration form).
• Attested copy of their proof of nationality (for international students).
• Attested copy of certification proving particular group (SC/ST, OBC, or disabled).
• Attested copy of the 10th Marksheet/ Admit Card with the candidate’s name.

Intermediate Level:

• Attested copy of the Class 12 or similar exam results/ pass certificate.
• Digital copy of CA Foundation examination/mark sheet.
• Candidates enrolled in the CA Direct Entry Program must present attested copies of their post-graduation and graduation mark certificates.
• One latest colour photo (attached to the hard copy of the completed online registration form).
• Attested copy of their proof of nationality (for international students).
• Attested copy of certification proving particular group (SC/ST, OBC, or disabled).
• Attested copy of the 10th Marksheet/ Admit Card with the candidate’s name.

Final Level:

• Digital copy of CA Foundation examination/mark sheet.
• CA IPCC/Intermediate mark sheet, which has to be signed by a CA.
• One latest colour photo (attached to the hard copy of the completed online registration form).
• Attested copy of their proof of nationality (for international students).
• Attested copy of certification proving particular group (SC/ST, OBC, or disabled).
• Attested copy of the 10th Marksheet/ Admit Card with the candidate’s name.

How to Register for the Chartered Accountancy Course?

Candidates need to follow these steps to register for the CA course:

• Access the ICAI official examination site. 
• Navigate to the home page and select “Log in/REGISTER.”
• Next, hit the “New User Register here” option.
• The panel will show the Registration Form.
• Choose the test type, select a prefix, and provide your dob, registration number, working email address, and landline number (if applicable).
• Verify your information and click the “Register” button to finish registering for the ICAI exam.
• Please complete your application form for the chosen course or test when you have successfully registered.

How to Fill Exam Form for the CA Exam and Its Fees 

The registration form and the examination form are not the same. The completion of the assessment form comes next as a priority after registration. On the ICAI web page, you will see the dates for submitting the exam form. 

Candidates must complete the form by the ICAI-announced date. Here are the steps:

• Go to the ICAI’s official exam page.
• To log in, use the credentials you used to register.
• Select the “Apply” button.
• It will show the exam form for that particular course.
• Carefully fill out the application form with your personal information with essential documents, then click “Save” and “Next.”
• Pay the examination form fees at the end to finish the process.

The exam fees for all the different levels are as follows:

Training in Chartered Accountancy Course

ICAI conducts four types of training for CA Aspirants. Here are they:

ICITSS Training

It is referred to as the “Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills.” The program has two phases: 

• Course on Information Technology~6 hours/day *15 working days
• Orientation Course~6 hours/day *15 working days

CA aspirants must finish ICITSS after enrolling for the CA Intermediate yet before the start of Articleship training. 

First Phase

Throughout this program, the aspiring CA candidates will gain standard theoretical and practical knowledge on applying IT in the accounting and auditing profession. Some of the main topics of this course include:

• Database Management System (DBMS)
• Electronic SpreadSheet
• Computer Assisted Audit Technique (CAAT), etc.

Fees Required:

The amount for IT is about ₹6500.

Syllabus:

• E Learning-Computer Fundamentals, Operating Systems, CBS–10 Hrs
• Accounting Package–18 Hrs
• MS–PowerPoint–12 Hrs
• MS-Word–06 Hrs
• MS–Excel–30 Hrs
• Databases using MS – Access–06 Hrs
• CAAT–18 Hrs

Module Tests:

It comprises objective and descriptive questions. Every Module Test is an hour long. It is the ITT Center’s responsibility to evaluate the module exams. If an applicant fails a module test, they can retake it for once at zero charges. And, for each subsequent reappearance, a small cost of Rs. 150/-per exam will be collected. 

Project:

A multidisciplinary project worth 100 marks that covers every topic in the IT  program must be done by the candidates. They need to complete it before the final online exam. 

Final Online Exam:

The final online test consists of 200 objective-type questions, which is for three hours. The ITT Centre notifies the learners about the examination date. An applicant needs to finish the assessment in one sitting within the allotted time.

Eligibility for Final Online Exam:

A student enrolled in the Information Technology Course  can only take the Final Online Examination if they meet these prerequisites: 

• Attendance of 90%
• Passing both Module Tests
• Project Report Submission
• Complete Payment of Course Fees.

Passing Criteria:

CA aspirants need to pass with a minimum of 60% overall. Here’s how marks are distributed:

• Two Module Tests: 20%
• Project: 20%
• Final Online Exam: 60%

NOTE: 

• Students are permitted to retake the online exam for two complimentary attempts if they cannot receive an aggregate score of 60%.
• However, they will need to pay a little charge of Rs. 300 to the ICAI regional branch for each additional attempt if they are still unable to obtain 60% even after three tries.

Second Phase:

The purpose of the Orientation Course is to provide future CAs with the following information: 

• Familiarise themselves with the multiple components of the Indian Accountancy Profession. 
• Cultivate effective interaction and presentation skills.
• Develop and inspire the applicants to become knowledgeable and competent experts.
• Expand the importance of practical education in the professional fields.

Fees Required:

The cost for non-residential students will be Rs. 7000/-(seven thousand only), covering all course materials and tea/refreshments. It can alter at any time, at the ICAI’s judgment.

Dress Code:

Students must follow the official dress code to comply with the local cultural norms while attending the orientation course. 

Suggested Outfit:- Males should wear shirts with sleeves and trousers, while females should wear sarees, salvars, kurtis or suits.

Syllabus:

• Academic and Technical Guidance – 12 hrs.
• Time Management, Critical Thinking, etc – 12 hrs
• Business Communication Skills, Data Analysis, etc – 12 hrs
• Powerpoint Presentations- 12 hrs
• Group Discussions, Relationship Management, etc – 6 hrs
• Office Étiquettes – 6 hrs
• Business Environment – 6 hrs
• Intra and Interfirms – 12 hrs
• Practical Verbal and Writing Skills- 12 hrs

AICITSS Training

It is referred to as Advanced Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills. This program also has two phases: 

• Advanced Information Technology~6 hours/day *15 working days
• Management and Communication Skills~6 hours/day *15 working days

Eligibility:

AICITSS will start during the final two years of articleship training, and candidates must finish this training before showing up for the final examination.

Fees:

• AICITSS: For non-residential students, the cost is Rs. 5,500, which includes course materials and tea/refreshments. 
• Management and Communication Skills: For non-residential students, the cost is Rs. 5,000, including course materials and tea/refreshments. 

Hours Allocated for Advanced ICITSS:

• Academic & Technical Guidance, General Management – 06 Hours
• Developing Personal Traits – 12 Hours
• Business Communication – 12 Hours
• Presentation – 24 Hours
• Interpersonal & Negotiation Skills – 12 Hours
• Office Procedure – 6 Hours
• Business Environment – 6 Hours
• Strategic Decision Making – 6 Hours

Hours Allocated for Management and Communication Skills:

• Business Communication – 12 Hours
• Presentation – 18 Hours
• Interpersonal & Negotiation Skills – 18 Hours
• Leadership, Team Building, and Career Development – 12 Hours
• Office etiquettes – 6 Hours
• Interview Preparation – 12 Hours
• Strategic Thinking – 6 Hours
• Professional Ethics – 6 Hours

Articleship Training

The CA Course relies heavily on two years of articleship training. Students can expect two years of real-world expertise and practical experience working as a chartered accountant.

After enrolling in the CA Intermediate program, learners who chose the direct admission option can begin their Articleship training immediately. However, the ICITSS training is required here as well.

Following two years of Articleship training, candidates can enrol or apply for the CA Final Examination.

Industrial Training

This 9-12 month training is entirely optional for CA. Applicants may register for industrial training after passing the CA Intermediate examination and finishing the final year of practical instruction. The ICAI standards state that one must notify their principal three months before the training’s commencement date.

Skills Required to Become a CA

When checking out the CA course details, it is also essential to understand the skillset aspiring CAs must possess for a successful career in the CA field. So these are as follows:

1. Analytical Skills

CAs must possess superior analytical abilities. Their jobs involve processing large volumes of financial information and making sense of large datasets. Hence, these analytical abilities help CAs gain clarity into financial health while accurately assessing risks and aiding informed decision-making.

2. Attentiveness to Detail

Attention to detail is of utmost importance in accounting, where even minor inaccuracies in financial statements can create major headaches for clients and organizations alike. Therefore, chartered accountants must take great care to ensure all documents comply with regulations while being meticulous in their work and ensuring every entry and calculation is correct and precise.

3. Problem Solving Abilities

CAs must develop strong problem-solving abilities as part of their core skill set. They frequently deal with complex financial situations that demand creative and innovative solutions—be they reconciling account discrepancies, devising tax-saving strategies, or optimizing financial processes—thus making problem-solving abilities an absolute requirement.

4. Communication Skills

Effective communication is of utmost importance for Chartered Accountants and is an important aspect of CA course details. They must explain complex financial concepts to clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders without an accounting background. Hence, Chartered Accountants require exceptional communication skills—both verbal and written—if they wish to succeed as professional accountants.

5. Ethics and Integrity

Ethics and integrity form the cornerstone of the CA profession. Chartered accountants are trusted with sensitive financial data that requires confidentiality protection and adhering to strict ethical standards. CAs must always exhibit high levels of honesty and professionalism in their dealings to maintain clients’ and the public’s trust.

6. Technical Proficiency

With the growing use of technology in accounting, technical proficiency is becoming ever more essential for chartered accountants. They should know accounting software, spreadsheets, financial tools, data analytics, and stay abreast of technological innovations to enhance efficiency and accuracy in their work. When checking the CA course details, they must also learn what tech skills they should have to succeed in their careers.

7. Adaptability and Continuous Learning

The financial landscape is constantly shifting, with new regulations, standards, and technologies emerging frequently. To remain relevant and provide clients with excellent advice and services, CAs need to stay flexible while remaining committed to continuous learning. 

Scope after Chartered Accountancy Course in India in 2024

A CA qualification opens up numerous career prospects across sectors and job roles in India due to the high demand for skilled financial professionals. CAs work in various sections, such as accounting firms, bookkeepers’ firms, audit firms, etc. When checking out the CA course details, aspirants must know about exciting career opportunities. Here are some of the career opportunities:

• Public Practice
• Chartered Accountant
• Auditor
• Financial Officer
• Cost Accountant
• Consultant
• Business Analyst
• Account Assistant
• Education Sectors
• Entrepreneurship
• International Opportunities 

Frequently Asked Questions –

Q1. What is the duration of the CA Course?

Ans: The total duration of the Chartered Accountant Course after class 12th is 5 years.

Q2. What are the subjects in CA?

Ans: In CA, the students will have different subjects at each level, namely, Accounts, Maths, Law, Tax, Audit, and Costing.

Q3. Is CA a three-year course?

Ans: No, the minimum course duration is 4.5 years.

Q4. How difficult is CA?

Ans: CA is considered to be the most difficult exam of all. At each level of the course, the difficulty level increases. However, one can easily pass the exam through hard work.

Q5. What is the qualification for the CA Course?

Ans: You must receive a passing grade on your class 12th exam to be eligible for the CA Course. Graduates with a background in business must receive at least a 55% grade, while those with a background in science must receive at least a 60% grade.

Q6. What is the average salary of a CA in India?

Ans: The average salary of a CA (Chartered Accountant) in India is Rs. 7-8 lakhs per annum.

Q7. What are the registration fees for CA courses?

Ans: The fees for the CA Course registration are given below:

• CA Foundation: INR 9,800
• CA Intermediate: INR 18,000
• CA Final: INR 22,000