Start with the work, not the acronym
Each qualification prepares you for a different kind of work. Pick the work first; the right course follows.
Indian qualifications
Chartered Accountancy (CA)
Awarded by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). Leads to audit, taxation, financial reporting and advisory work. Statutory audit in India is reserved for chartered accountants.
Cost and Management Accountancy (CMA, formerly ICWA)
Awarded by the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI). Focuses on costing, budgeting, performance management and cost audit.
Company Secretary (CS)
Awarded by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). Focuses on corporate law, governance and compliance.
International qualifications
CFA
Offered by CFA Institute. Focuses on investment analysis and portfolio management: equity research, asset management, wealth management.
ACCA
Offered by ACCA. An accounting qualification recognised in many countries, useful for roles in multinational finance teams.
CIMA
Offered through AICPA & CIMA. Focuses on management accounting and business finance.
US CPA
Licensed by US state boards; information is on the AICPA & CIMA site. Relevant for US accounting and audit work, including roles in India serving US clients.
How to choose
- Enjoy rules, accuracy and assurance? Look at CA or CPA.
- Enjoy markets and valuation? Look at CFA.
- Enjoy law and governance? Look at CS.
- Enjoy planning, costing and business performance? Look at CMA or CIMA.
- Want an international accounting career? Compare ACCA and CPA.
Exam structures, eligibility and fees change. Confirm current details on each body's official site before you register (links checked 2026-10-28).