Chartered Accountant Eligibility & Fee Structure

Eligibility Criteria & Fees for Chartered Accountant

Becoming a Chartered Accountant in India involves meeting specific eligibility criteria set by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). These criteria ensure that candidates have the necessary educational qualifications to pursue the CA course.  Becoming a Chartered Accountant in India involves fulfilling specific eligibility criteria and meeting various fee requirements at different stages of the CA course. Aspiring CAs should keep themselves updated with the latest fee structures and requirements by referring to the official website of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). It is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires dedication, commitment, and financial planning.

1. Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their 10+2 level of education or its equivalent from a recognized board or institution. They should have passed the Senior Secondary Examination with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in any stream.

2. Foundation Course Registration: After meeting the educational qualification, candidates can register for the CA Foundation Course. There is no age limit for registration, which means candidates can start the CA journey at any age.

3. Registration with ICAI: Candidates should register with the ICAI for the CA Foundation Course. Registration is open throughout the year, and candidates can apply online on the ICAI's official website.

4. Registration Fees: There is a registration fee associated with enrolling in the CA Foundation Course. The fee varies depending on the candidate's location and other factors. It's advisable to check the ICAI's website for the most up-to-date fee structure.

5. Duration of Articleship/Internship: During the CA course, candidates are required to complete a mandatory articleship/internship period. This period typically spans 3 years and can commence after passing the CA Intermediate exams and the Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills (ICITSS).

6. CA Intermediate Registration: Candidates must register for the CA Intermediate Course after successfully completing the CA Foundation Course and have passed the 10+2 examination. Registration for the CA Intermediate is also done through the ICAI's website.

7. CA Intermediate Exam Fees: Similar to the registration fees, there are examination fees associated with the CA Intermediate exams. The fee structure may vary, so candidates should refer to the ICAI's official website for the latest fee details.

8. Minimum Marks for Passing: To progress through the CA course, candidates must secure a minimum of 40% marks in each paper and a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in the Intermediate exams.

9. CA Final Registration: Once candidates have cleared both groups of the CA Intermediate exams and completed the articleship/internship, they can register for the CA Final Course.

10. CA Final Exam Fees: Similar to the earlier stages, candidates are required to pay examination fees for the CA Final exams. The fee structure is subject to change and can be found on the ICAI's website.

11. Membership Application: After successfully completing all the CA exams, including the CA Final, candidates can apply for membership with the ICAI. This involves submitting an application, along with the necessary documents and fees.

12. Annual Membership Renewal: Chartered Accountants in India are required to renew their membership with the ICAI on an annual basis by paying the prescribed renewal fees.

13. Continuing Professional Education (CPE): To maintain their CA designation, members are obligated to participate in ongoing professional development activities, such as seminars, workshops, and courses, to earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.

14. Specializations and Additional Qualifications: Chartered Accountants can pursue additional qualifications or specialize in various areas such as forensic accounting, taxation, or financial planning to enhance their professional expertise.

15. Compliance with Ethical Standards: Chartered Accountants are expected to adhere to a strict code of ethics and professional conduct, maintaining the highest standards of integrity, independence, and confidentiality in their work.

16. Fees for Additional Courses and Seminars: Apart from the core CA course, candidates may incur additional expenses for supplementary courses, study materials, and seminars offered by the ICAI and other institutions to enhance their knowledge and skills.

17. Cost of Study Materials: Candidates often need to purchase study materials and reference books to prepare for the CA exams. The cost of study materials may vary based on the chosen study provider.