By News18
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) marks its 76 Foundation Day on July 1, 2025. Established through an Act of Parliament on July 1, 1949, the ICAI has since played a crucial role in shaping India’s financial and economic landscape. Every year, July 1 is celebrated as National CA Day. Chartered Accountants are in high demand both in India and abroad.
Becoming a CA is considered a strong career option, though it requires patience, dedication, and investment of time and money.
CA Course Structure and Duration
The CA course is divided into three levels: CA Foundation, Intermediate, and Final. It generally takes 4.5 to 5 years to complete. Though the total cost of pursuing CA is lower than that of other professional courses like MBA or Engineering, it demands more effort and commitment.
If you include coaching, registration, books, exam fees, and articleship, the total cost ranges from Rs 3 to Rs 4 lakh. Despite the relatively low expense, the CA qualification offers high returns in terms of career and salary.
Earning Potential After CA
Chartered Accountancy offers one of the most lucrative careers in India.
Fresher CA: Starting salary is Rs 6–8 lakh per annum. In Big Four firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG), freshers can earn up to Rs 10–12 lakh per annum.
Practising CA: Independent practitioners can initially earn Rs 10–11 lakh per annum, which can go up to Rs 20–50 lakh with a strong client base.
Experienced CA: With 4–5 years of experience, professionals earn Rs 12–15 lakh or more annually. Those in finance, taxation, or consultancy may earn even higher. Abroad, in countries like Qatar, Canada, and Australia, salaries can be significantly higher.
Cost of Pursuing CA in India
Here’s a breakdown of the expenses involved:
CA Foundation
Registration Fee: Rs 9,000
Exam Fee: Rs 1,500
Journal Subscription (Optional): Rs 400
Coaching Fee (Optional): Rs 30,000–Rs 60,000
Total: Rs 40,000–Rs 70,000
Registration valid for 4 years (no re-validation needed)
CA Intermediate
Registration Fee: Rs 15,000 (both groups) / Rs 11,000 (single group)
Exam Fee: Rs 2,700–Rs 3,300 (per group)
ICITSS Training: Rs 13,500
Coaching Fee: Rs 60,000–Rs 1,50,000
Total: Rs 80,000–Rs 2,00,000
Registration valid for 5 years, re-validation fee Rs 400
Registration Fee: Rs 22,000
Exam Fee: Rs 3,300 (per group)
AICITSS Training: Rs 14,500
Articleship Registration: Rs 2,000
Coaching Fee: Rs 70,000–Rs 1,00,000
Total: Rs 1,00,000–Rs 1,50,000
Registration valid for 10 years, re-validation fee Rs 500
Additional Costs
Books & Study Material: Rs 20,000–Rs 50,000
Re-attempt Fees: Rs 1,500–Rs 3,300 per attempt
If Passed In First Attempt With Coaching: Rs 3–Rs 4 lakh total
Without Coaching: Rs 85,000–Rs 1,00,000
ICAI offers scholarships (merit and need-based) to reduce financial burden
With strong career growth, global demand, and high earning potential, Chartered Accountancy remains one of the most prestigious and rewarding professions in India today.