What's next after completing CA final? There are various career opportunities, both individual and company-based practices. Once the CA Finals are cleared, candidates can choose a career of their choice.
What next after clearing CA Final? After completing the CA Final exam, a candidate automatically becomes a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountant of India (ICAI). CA Final is the qualifying step to add the prefix CA before the name. CA is not just any position but a person works as a practioner who is hired to be take care of the financial statement of companies or individuals.
What Next After Completing CA Final?
What next after completing CA Final? There are several career choices that the candidates can make, keeping in mind their purpose and goal in life. Here are some of the best career choices concerning further education listed below:
1. Diploma in Information System Audit (DISA)
It is a compulsory course for those who want to go for bank audit or information systems audit jobs. DISA is considered tougher but essential to carry out its practice and wish to administer in bank audits. Besides, it is a diploma course conducted by ICAI for audit and system security. ISACA provides the license, and only qualified CA can appear in this exam.
2. Certified Information System Auditor (CISA)
CISA is a course specifically designed to carry the best risk-based information system. It is a world-renowned Information Systems Audit course issued by the ISACA based in the U.S. Additionally, it is considered one of the best career options for candidates who are still pondering what to do after the CA Final. Furthermore, CISA is internationally recognized and valued more than DISA.
3. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
If any candidate is deep-rooted in the Financial Sector, they can opt for this course. Moreover, this course is recognized worldwide and is offered by CFA institutes. It is believed to create a strong foundation for real-world investment and teach how to manage portfolios effectively. Additionally, It demands 4 years of practical training experience.
4. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Issued by IIA (Institute of Internal Auditors), CIA is a globally recognized certification in Internal Auditing. Once the CA is completed, candidates can pursue this degree, provided they are interested in growing as an Internal Auditor. Besides, candidates will obtain a fair knowledge of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act).
5. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
ACCA is globally recognized for its accounting and finance excellence. There are more than 150 countries that allow it. It further facilitates gaining knowledge about UK GAAP, IFRS, and other International Laws. Besides, after clearing the CA Final, ACCA gives 9 exemptions out of 14 papers which means a qualified CA has to appear in just 5 papers.
6. Investment Banking
While thinking of what to do after the CA final, Investment banking is a great career option. It is also quite popular in recent times. Additionally, it can offer job profiles such as valuation analysts, investment banking analysts, M&A analysts, and many more. The salary is somewhere between 10- 12 lakhs per annum.
7. Financial Risk Management (FRM)
To appear for FRM, candidates are required to clear both the levels of FRM. The exams are usually conducted in May and November. Moreover, the salary package is estimated at around INR 7-8 Lakhs per annum once the degree is achieved.
8. Start Working in an Established CA Firm
One of the brilliant ideas is working in a CA firm. The position offered by every organization may differ. However, the opportunity to work as a CA in any firm widens. Nonetheless, different firms have different selection criteria; like few might conduct interviews, few might hire you directly concerning your rank. Career opportunities in CA firm along with salary per annum after qualifying CA final are mentioned below:
| Job Profile | Salary (Per Annum) |
| Budget Management | INR 9-11.5 lakhs |
| Strategic Accounts | INR 8-9 lakhs |
| Evaluation and Management Auditing | INR 8-9 lakhs |
| Financial Analysis | INR 7-8.5 lakhs |
| Financial Advisor | INR 8-8.5 lakhs |
| SAP Financial Accounting and Controlling | INR 7.5-8.5 lakh |
| Financial Reporting | INR 7.5-8.5 lakhs |
| Auditing | INR 7.5-8.5 lakhs |
| Account Management | INR 7.5-8.5 lakhs |
| Internal Audit | INR 6-7 lakhs |
| Accounting | INR 6-7 lakhs |
| Tax Consulting | INR 6-7 lakhs |
| Tax Compliance | INR 6-7 lakhs |
9. Individual CA Practioner
Practicing CA as an individual proprietor these days is not advisable due to the fervent competition prevalent in the market. Instead, go for building a partnership firm with a minimum of 4 qualified Chartered Accountants. Additionally, look forward to starting an LLP firm following LLP Act 2008. A Chartered accountant can practice with:
- Company Secretary in Practice
- Chartered Accountant in practice
- Cost Accountant in practice
- Architect Professional
- Advocate as defined by the Bar Council of India and Actuary Profession.
10. Start Teaching
Teaching is one of the noble professions. Therefore, imparting knowledge is the highest profession. The average salary of CA qualified teachers in India is estimated to be around INR 6-10 Lakh per annum. However, it entirely depends on the environment, student capacity, and the institution. It is the second-best option if anyone does not want to run the rat race of 9-5 P.M jobs.
Additional Tips On What to do After CA Final
After completing CA Final, what next? While hovering over this question, candidates can focus on developing and nurturing their skills. Further, candidates can take a break, as the CA final is a tough nut to unscrew. However, here are some more possibilities:
1. Enhance your Network
After appearing for the CA final exam, the following progress should be towards building your network. There is a gap of 2 months between the exam date and the results date. Till the results are declared, explore and inquire about various job opportunities available. Do not pause for the results; rather, get a list prepared already. Hence, keep the network activated to seek the encircled choices as soon as the results are declared within no time.
2. Start Polishing your Non-Technical Skills
Going through technical skills is necessary as appearing for the different CA levels are complete. However, after giving the CA final, it is time to conquer the non-technical skills. Nevertheless, a few of the basic soft skills must be taught, but working personally is necessary. The investment in this factor will enhance the personality as an individual and make the profile attractive.
3. Prepare for On/ Off-Campus Placements
How you represent yourself and your opinions is something you will always be judged by. Hence be prepared for the interview part as well. Start making your resume and attach all the essential documents with it.
