By Published On: June 10, 20254 min read

[fusion_dropcap class="fusion-content-tb-dropcap"]A[/fusion_dropcap]re you wondering, “How long will it take to become a Chartered Accountant after B.Com?” If yes, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of commerce graduates aspire to pursue Chartered Accountancy (CA) — one of India’s most respected and rewarding professional courses.

In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know — from the eligibility process to the time required, along with some pro tips to fast-track your journey.

Let’s dive right in!


What is CA (Chartered Accountancy)?

Before we talk about the timeline, let’s quickly understand what CA actually means.

Chartered Accountancy is a professional course offered by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). CAs are experts in accounting, taxation, auditing, finance, and business law. In India, becoming a CA is seen as a mark of excellence, offering a highly respected career with great earning potential.


Eligibility to Pursue CA After B.Com

If you have completed your Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com), you can directly enter the CA course via the Direct Entry Route.

Good news: You can skip the CA Foundation exam (the entry-level test) and move straight to the Intermediate level — but there’s a catch.

Here’s what you need:

  • A minimum of 55% marks in B.Com (if your degree includes accounting, auditing, and commerce subjects).
  • If you’re from a non-commerce background, you must have 60% marks.

Once eligible, you can register for CA Intermediate.


CA After B.Com: Step-by-Step Journey

Let’s map out the complete path from B.Com to CA qualification.

1. CA Intermediate Registration

Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you must register for the CA Intermediate Course.

  • Registration is open throughout the year.
  • Exams are held in May and November each year.

✅ Tip: It’s better to register at least 8–9 months before the exam you want to attempt.


2. Complete 4 Weeks of ICITSS

After registering for CA Intermediate, you need to undergo ICITSS (Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills).

  • It includes Information Technology Training (ITT) and Orientation Program (OP).
  • Duration: 4 weeks (1 month)

Note: This is mandatory before you start your practical training (articleship).


3. Clear Both Groups of CA Intermediate

The CA Intermediate exam consists of two groups, each with four subjects.

  • You can attempt both groups together or one at a time.
  • Passing requires securing 40% in each paper and 50% aggregate overall.

Passing CA Intermediate typically takes around 8–12 months, depending on preparation and exam success.


4. Register for Articleship (Practical Training)

After passing at least one group of CA Intermediate, you can start your Articleship, which is a paid practical training under a practicing Chartered Accountant.

Articleship Duration:

  • 3 years (compulsory)

During this period, you gain hands-on experience in auditing, taxation, accounting, and consultancy projects.

✅ Tip: Focus seriously during your Articleship — it shapes your real-world skills and future job prospects.


5. Prepare and Appear for CA Final

In the last 6 months of your Articleship, you can register for CA Final — the ultimate exam.

CA Final also has two groups, and cracking it requires dedication, smart study plans, and consistent effort.

You can attempt CA Final while still completing the final months of Articleship.


So, How Many Years Does It Take?

Let’s summarize the timeline for CA after B.Com:

StageDuration
Registration & ICITSS1–2 months
CA Intermediate Preparation8–12 months
Articleship Training3 years
CA Final PreparationDuring last 6 months

✅ Total Minimum Duration: Approximately 3.5 to 4 years

Important:

  • If you clear exams (Intermediate & Final) in the first attempt, it takes about 3.5 years after B.Com.
  • If there are exam failures or study breaks, the duration could extend to 5–6 years.

Can You Complete CA Faster After B.Com?

Here’s the truth — while the structure is fixed, you can optimize your preparation to complete CA at the minimum time:

  • Clear CA Intermediate in the first attempt.
  • Start Articleship immediately after clearing Group 1.
  • Utilize Articleship time smartly by preparing for CA Final alongside.
  • Enroll in revision batches, mock tests, and crash courses during your Articleship period.

With proper planning and focus, you can achieve your CA dream in just about 3.5 years!


Key Skills You Need for CA Journey

Becoming a CA demands more than academic brilliance. You also need:

  • Analytical skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Ethical integrity
  • Resilience to handle pressure

Building these skills during your B.Com and Articleship period will give you a winning edge.


FAQs About CA After B.Com

1. Can I do CA and B.Com together?

You can pursue CA along with B.Com if you start early through the Foundation route. But once you’ve completed B.Com, you directly start CA Intermediate.

2. Is CA tougher after B.Com?

CA is challenging regardless of when you start. However, a B.Com background gives you a strong foundation, making certain subjects easier.

3. What is the average salary after completing CA?

A freshly qualified CA in India can expect a starting package between ₹7 lakh to ₹15 lakh annually, depending on skills, performance, and employer.


Final Thoughts: Should You Pursue CA After B.Com?

Absolutely — if you are passionate about finance, accounting, auditing, or taxation, CA is one of the best career paths you can choose.

While the journey takes time, effort, and commitment, the rewards — both professional and financial — are truly worth it.
Plan smartly, stay focused, and you can proudly add “CA” before your name in just a few years!

Ready to start your CA journey after B.Com? Your future as a Chartered Accountant awaits!

Visit Our Website : Accounting.in