Earlier, the words ‘Chartered Accountant’ always brought to my mind an image of an individual rummaging through endless balance sheets. Now, having gone through the placement figures of ICAI, I realize, more than ever, that a chartered accountant is a crucial asset to any organization- big or small. Chartered accountancy is a great career option for those who are good with numbers and have an excellent ability to comprehend numerical data. And, an internship is vital in getting first-hand knowledge on the workings of this dynamic and lucrative field, which is burgeoning in our emerging economy.

Duration

An internship in chartered accountancy lasts about three years. There are several CA companies providing internships for students doing their course. You can get information on these companies on the Internet.

Employers provide in-house training to candidates, on general and technical skills, to help them perform better. Various company websites give you information about internship programs, and the application procedure.

Benefits of Internship

• Helps in developing new skills.
• Students can gain experience by working in different sectors.
• They can work with the clients, project teams and new colleagues.
• They can gain professional experience.

Articleship

Once candidates clear the exams, they must complete an articleship, which is similar to an internship. It is for a span of three years, in which the student is trained under a qualified accountant.

Career in Chartered Accountancy

Chartered accountancy is one of the most prestigious career choices. It is challenging and rewarding at the same time. The course involves both theoretical and practical training and equips students with the skills, ability and knowledge required to be a professional.

Career Opportunities

Small and large businesses require chartered accountants to manage their finances. Hence, a qualified CA has immense opportunities in the business sector. They handle a wide spectrum of roles ranging from financial controllers to chief executives.

Profile of Companies Hiring CAs

As a CA, you can get plenty of opportunities in the following organizations:

• Finance companies, stock broking firms, investment houses, mutual funds and portfolio management companies
• Legal firms, attorneys, patent firms, legal houses and copyright registers
• Auditing firms
• Public companies
• Private and public sector banks

Pay Packet

Chartered accountancy has huge growth potential in terms of pay packets too.

• Depending on the company, the salary ranges between Rs 5,000 - Rs. 10000 per month during the period of articleship.
• Once you clear your final exams, you can get a salary between Rs. 20,000- Rs. 40, 000.
• An experienced person (about five years), can take home around Rs. 50, 000 - Rs. 75, 000

Top Recruiting Companies

• Hyundai
• iGate
• Infosys
• Wipro
• TCS
• Accenture     
• Cognizant