Want to be ca

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pawan kumar (Querist)
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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)
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08 February 2016 I Prefer U To Do CPA If U Planning To Make Carrer In MNC

pawan kumar

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

pawan kumar

pawan kumar (Querist)
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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)
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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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