Want to be ca

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pawan kumar (Querist)

08 February 2016 Hi I have done my MBA in finance from Sikkim manipal university by distance learning program. now I M working in travel company in finance department. I want to be a CA, is that possible with my regular job. kindly suggest me the procedure.

Arpit Shah

Arpit Shah (Expert)

08 February 2016 I Prefer U To Do CPA If U Planning To Make Carrer In MNC

pawan kumar

pawan kumar (Querist)

08 February 2016 hi Arpit ji thanks for your suggestion, can you plz share the procedure for this course.

pawan kumar

pawan kumar (Querist)

08 February 2016 Hi Arpit ji thanks for your suggestion, can you plz share the procedure for this course.

Aashok Kumar Sharma

Aashok Kumar Sharma

(Expert)

03 August 2025 Gotcha! You want to become a **CA** while working a regular job, and you’re also considering options like **CPA** for career growth, especially in MNCs. Here’s a clear guide for both, with focus on how to manage your CA journey alongside a job:

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### How to Become a CA in India While Working

1. **Eligibility:**

* You can start the CA course after passing 10+2 (12th standard) or graduation.
* Since you have an MBA, you can directly register for the CA Foundation or Intermediate level depending on your prior qualifications.

2. **Course Structure:**

* **Foundation Course:** Entry-level exam after 12th.
* **Intermediate Course:** After clearing Foundation or if exempted based on graduation.
* **Final Course:** After clearing Intermediate.

3. **Register with ICAI:**

* Register for the CA course on ICAI’s website.
* You can study while working because the exams are held twice a year (May and November).

4. **Articleship Training:**

* You need to undergo **3 years of practical training (articleship)** under a practicing CA.
* This can be challenging while working elsewhere full-time. You can explore part-time articleship options, but ICAI has strict rules on minimum working hours.
* Managing time between job and articleship requires discipline.

5. **Study Plan:**

* Dedicate fixed hours daily/weekends to study.
* Use online coaching, study materials from ICAI, and join study groups.

6. **Exam Appearances:**

* Appear for Foundation (if needed), then Intermediate, then Final exams.
* Clear each level before moving to the next.

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### CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Option

* CPA is an American qualification focused on US GAAP, taxation, and accounting.
* Popular for careers in MNCs, especially if you want to work in the US or global firms.
* **Procedure to become CPA:**

* Meet education requirements (usually a bachelor’s degree + 150 credit hours).
* Apply through the state board where you want to get certified.
* Pass 4 CPA exam sections.
* Meet experience requirements.
* CPA exams can be taken while working.

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### Which Should You Choose?

| Aspect | CA (India) | CPA (US) |
| ---------------------- | --------------------------------- | ------------------------------ |
| Recognition | Strong in India & GCC countries | Globally recognized, esp. US |
| Course Duration | Typically 4-5 years | Usually 1-2 years |
| Career Path | Audit, Tax, Finance in India | MNCs, US companies worldwide |
| Work+Study Feasibility | Possible but requires articleship | Easier to manage alongside job |

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### Summary for You

* If you want to work and study CA, start by registering for ICAI exams.
* Plan to complete your articleship; it is mandatory.
* If MNCs/global career is the goal, CPA could be a good alternate.
* Both require dedication but can be done with a regular job if managed well.

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If you want, I can help you with ICAI registration steps or CPA exam details. Just ask!

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