Career guides · Business

How to become a Chartered Accountant

Chartered accountants prepare, check and explain the accounts and taxes of companies and people. In India the qualification is run by ICAI, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

The route from Class 10

  1. Class 10
    Choose your stream
  2. Class 11–12
    Commerce with Maths

    In Class 11–12, take Commerce with Maths.

  3. After Class 12
    CA Foundation

    There is no college entrance exam. After Class 12 you register with ICAI and take the CA Foundation exam. Graduates can join directly at the Intermediate level.

  4. Then
    Study, skills and first job

    Set out step by step in the Career Blueprint.

  5. Where this path leads
    Chartered Accountant

What the work involves

  • Auditing accounts to check they are correct
  • Planning and filing taxes
  • Advising businesses on decisions about money

You might enjoy it if

  • You like numbers and getting the details right
  • You can keep studying steadily for exams over several years
  • You want a qualification that every business understands

Is it right for you?

This page is the same for every student. The free Career Sketch looks at your interests, personality and learning style, and shows the career that matches you best. It takes about 20 minutes.

Take the free Career Sketch

Still choosing a stream? Compare all four in the Stream Matrix, or talk it through with a counsellor.

Exam rules checked October 2026. They change from year to year, so confirm with the official body before you apply.