
13th May, 2025
CA Exam Test Series
Can a Science Student Become a Chartered Accountant (CA)? Here's How
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When people think of Chartered Accountancy (CA), they often associate it with students from a commerce background. But did you know that science backgrounds students can also become successful Chartered Accountants? In fact, there are many science students who have successfully transitioned into the world of accountancy, breaking the traditional mold.
What they had in common wasn’t a background in accounting, it was curiosity, dedication, and the courage to step into something new.
If you are a science student and wondering whether you can build a future in finance, this blog is for you. We will guide you by providing steps on how you can become a Chartered Accountant from a non-commerce background.
Steps to become Chartered Accountant (CA) as a Science Student
Step 1: Pass Class 12th (from any stream)
To start the CA course, the first step is to complete your Class 12th education from a recognized board. It doesn’t matter whether your stream was Science or Commerce.
Step 2: Register for the CA Foundation Course and clear the CA Foundation level
This is the entry-level course and the first step toward becoming a CA. You can register for the CA Foundation course after 12th.
It is important to note that you can register for the CA Foundation course after completing your 10th grade. However, you can only take the CA Foundation exams after successfully completing your 12th grade.
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Before you can appear for the CA Foundation exam, a minimum of a four-month study period is necessary.
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CA Foundation Exam is held thrice a year in the months of May, September, and January.
Subjects covered in CA Foundation:
Paper 1: Accounting
Paper 2: Business Laws
Paper 3: Quantitative Aptitude
Paper 4: Business Economics
If these subjects are new to you, then don’t worry you can start from the basics - no prior knowledge is required.
To pass the CA Foundation course, it is necessary to get at least 40% marks in each subject and an overall of 50% marks.
Step 3: Registration for CA Intermediate or CA Inter
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After clearing the CA Foundation exams, students can register for the CA Intermediate exams.
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Or you can also get direct entry into CA Inter and no need to give the CA Foundation exam if you are a non-commerce graduate/postgraduate and secured at least 60% marks in your graduation or postgraduate studies.
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To appear for the CA Inter exam, an 8 months study period is necessary.
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The CA Inter exam is held thrice a year in the months of May, September, and January.
Subjects Covered in CA Inter:
Group 1 |
Group 2 |
Paper 1: Advanced Accounting |
Paper 4: Cost and Management Accounting |
Paper 2: Corporate and Other Law |
Paper 5: Auditing and Ethics |
Paper 3: Taxation |
Paper 6: Financial Management and Strategic Management |
This is where you will start diving deeper into core CA subjects. It may be difficult for science students, but with proper study techniques, it’s absolutely achievable.
To apply for CA Articleship, it is necessary to pass both groups of CA Inter level.
To pass the CA Inter level, students need to get at least 40% marks in each subject and an overall of 50% marks.
Step 4: Articleship
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After passing both groups of CA Inter, you can start your CA Articleship.
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The duration of CA Articleship training is 2 years.
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A hands-on internship under a practicing Chartered Accountant where you gain real-world experience in areas like auditing, finance, and taxation.
Step 5: Register for the CA Final
- During the last 6 months of your articleship, you can register for the CA Final because before the CA Final exam, a six-month study period is necessary.
- CA Final course subjects not just require academic preparation but also require practical understanding gained during articleship training.
- To pass the CA Final exam it is necessary to get at least 40% marks in each subject and an overall of 50% marks.
Subjects Covered in CA Final:
Group 1 |
Group 2 |
Paper 1: Financial Reporting |
Paper 4: Direct Tax Laws & International Taxation |
Paper 2: Advanced Financial Management |
Paper 5: Indirect Tax Laws |
Paper 3: Advanced Auditing, Assurance, and Professional ethics |
Paper 6: Integrated Business Solutions |
Once you have passed both groups of CA Final, you become a Chartered Accountant (CA).
From Science Stream to CA Success: The Inspiring Journey of Rakesh Jhujhunwala
Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, who is a renowned Indian investor and a billionaire, was initially a science student. Before pursuing a career in Chartered Accountancy, he completed his schooling with a science background.
His journey is a perfect example of how individuals can switch career paths and succeed, even if they begin with a science background.
With dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn, science students can excel in the CA Profession and beyond.
Conclusion: Your background doesn’t define your future
If you are a science student dreaming of being a Chartered Accountant, always remember “Your stream doesn’t define your success, your mindset does.
We know that the road to CA may be unfamiliar, and you have to work a little harder at first, but that’s what makes the journey more rewarding.
So, don’t let doubt stop you. Don’t let labels limit you. If your dream is to become a CA, then go for it with full confidence.
So, start your journey now. The calculator is waiting – not to measure formulas, but to calculate your future success.
Science Student? Want to become a CA?
You don’t need a Commerce Background – you just need the right guidance along with the right study plan.
At Bhagya Achievers, our pass Guarantee Study Plan is designed to help non-commerce students to crack CA with confidence.
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Expert mentorship
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Mock tests & revision strategy
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Customized study plan
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Daily targets
Start Smart. Learn better. Succeed faster – with Bhagya Achievers
FAQs
Can a science student become a Chartered Accountant?
Yes, science students can become a CA. you just need to pass class 12th from a recognized board.
Do I need to take coaching to clear CA if I am not from a science background?
Yes, coaching is mandatory, especially for science students who are new to commerce subjects.
How long does it take to become a CA after 12th?
On average, it takes about 4.5 to 5 years to become a CA after class 12th.
How can Bhagya Achievers help science students become CAs?
Bhagya Achievers offers a pass guarantee study plan which is specially designed for non-commerce backgrounds. It includes customized study plan, mock test, expert guidance, and revision strategies which ensure you never feel lost in your CA journey.
When can students register in the Foundation Course to become eligible for the CA Foundation exam?
Students can register for the CA Foundation course with the Board of Studies of the Institute for a minimum of four months on or before the 1st day of the month in which the examination is held. for example:
For CA Foundation May session |
On or before 1st January of that year |
For CA Foundation September session |
On or before 1st May of that year |
For CA Foundation January session |
On or before 1st September of that year |
Also check:
- Mastering CA: Tips & Strategies
- All about CA: Full Form, Qualification Requirements & Course Path
- CA program duration length after 12th & graduation in India
- Top 10 Indian CA Firms for Excellent Careers
- How to get AIR in CA Foundation?
- How to clear the CA Foundation exam in the First attempt?
- CA Age Limit: Eligibility Criteria for Chartered Accountancy Exams