How to Get CA Admission After Intermediate in Pakistan 2025

Chartered Accountancy, or CA, is one of the most respected and rewarding career paths for students in Pakistan. If you’ve just completed your intermediate (FA, FSC, ICOM, etc.) and are thinking about how to take your first step into this field, you're in the right place. This guide will break everything down into simple steps and show you exactly how to apply for CA admission after intermediate.

Whether you dream of working with multinational companies, starting your own audit firm, or becoming a financial expert, CA gives you the skills and credibility to go far. Let's walk through the process together.

What Is CA and Why Is It Worth It?

CA stands for Chartered Accountant. It's a professional qualification, not a regular university degree. That means it's designed to prepare you for the real business world with a focus on accounting, finance, auditing, and tax.

You don’t need a university degree to become a CA in Pakistan. Instead, you complete a structured series of exams and training under the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP).

Here’s why many students prefer CA after intermediate:

• Recognized nationally and internationally

• High demand in the finance, audit, and corporate sectors

• Offers job security and excellent salary potential

• Opens opportunities to work abroad, especially in the UAE, UK, and Australia

• No need for a bachelor’s degree if you start right after intermediate

Eligibility for CA Admission After Intermediate

If you’re a recent intermediate student, you’re already eligible to apply. Here’s what ICAP typically requires:

• Passed Intermediate (FSc, FA, ICOM, ICS or A-Levels)

• Minimum 50% marks in Intermediate or equivalent qualification

• For A-Level students, at least two passes with equivalency from IBCC

There is no age limit, and students from any background (science, arts, commerce) can apply.

However, students from commerce or business background like ICOM or A-Levels (Business) may find it slightly easier in the beginning, especially with subjects like accounting and economics.

How CA Works in Pakistan: Program Breakdown

CA is divided into multiple stages. You’ll complete exams and training in a structured sequence.

Here’s the typical structure of CA in Pakistan:

1. PRC (Pre-Requisite Competency)

This is the entry-level stage for students who come after intermediate. It consists of 4 basic subjects:

• Functional English

• Quantitative Methods

• Introduction to Accounting

• Economics and Business

You must clear this level to move to the next stage.

2. CAF (Certificate in Accounting and Finance)

This is the next stage after PRC and includes 9 subjects. It focuses on accounting, taxation, business law, and financial reporting.

3. Articleship (Training Period)

After passing CAF, you need to complete 3.5 years of practical training (also known as Articleship) under an ICAP-registered firm. This gives you real-world exposure.

4. Final Stages: CFAP & MSA

You’ll study higher-level subjects like Audit, Tax Planning, Financial Management, and Strategy.

Once you complete all levels and training, you officially become a Chartered Accountant.

How to Apply for CA Admission in Pakistan

Now let’s go step by step through the admission process.

Step 1: Choose a Registered Tuition Provider

You can’t just study CA anywhere. You must enroll in a registered tuition center affiliated with ICAP. Some of the well-known institutes in Pakistan include:

• SKANS School of Accountancy

• CFE College

• PAC (Professional Academy of Commerce)

• CAPS

• Al-Hamd Academy

• Rise School of Accountancy

These institutes offer regular classes, study material, and mock tests to help you prepare for ICAP exams.

Step 2: Register with ICAP

Once you pick a tuition provider, the next step is to register with ICAP.

Documents Required:

• Intermediate/A-Level result card

• Passport-sized photographs

• Copy of CNIC or B-form

• Tuition provider’s registration form

• Paid ICAP registration fee challan

The registration is usually done online via the ICAP student portal.

Step 3: Get Your Study Plan

After registration, you’ll receive a complete study plan for the PRC or CAF level (depending on your eligibility). You can choose to study full-time or part-time, depending on your schedule.

Step 4: Appear in Exams

ICAP conducts exams twice a year:

• Spring Session (April-May)

• Fall Session (September-October)

You need to register for the exams in advance and prepare using study materials and mock tests provided by your tuition provider.

Top Cities for CA Admission in Pakistan

Here are the cities in Pakistan that offer the best tuition centers and resources for CA students:

These cities also offer opportunities for internships and part-time work with audit or finance firms while you study.

Fee Structure for CA in Pakistan

CA doesn’t have a one-time fee like a university degree. Costs vary based on:

• Tuition provider

• ICAP registration

• Exam fees

• Study materials

Here’s a breakdown of approximate costs:

Total Cost to Become a CA: Between Rs. 500,000 to 700,000, spread across 5–6 years

Many institutes offer installment plans, scholarships, and discounts for top students.

How Long Does It Take to Become a CA?

If you start right after intermediate, you can become a CA in about 5 to 6 years if you clear all exams on the first attempt and complete your training on time.

Here’s a rough timeline:

• PRC: 6 months

• CAF: 1.5 to 2 years

• Articleship: 3.5 years

• Final exams (CFAP & MSA): 1 year (during training)

It’s not easy, but definitely achievable with focus and consistency.

Job Opportunities After Becoming a CA

After completing your CA admission and passing all levels, you can work in:

• Audit firms (PwC, KPMG, EY, Deloitte, etc.)

• Banks and financial institutions

• Multinational companies (Nestlé, Unilever, Engro)

• Government agencies

• Startups and tech firms

• Your own audit or consultancy firm

Entry-level salaries for fresh CAs start from Rs. 100,000 to 200,000/month, with quick growth as you gain experience.

Tips for CA Students After Intermediate

• Choose a good tuition provider with high pass rates

• Don’t skip mock exams — they prepare you mentally

• Build a routine for regular self-study

• Read financial news to stay aware of economic trends

• Join student forums or CA Facebook groups to stay updated

• Plan your training (articleship) early to avoid delays later

CA is tough but manageable if you’re disciplined.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes CA students make:

• Thinking CA is only for commerce students (it’s not)

• Delaying exam registration

• Not giving enough time to self-study

• Choosing tuition providers only by low fees

• Ignoring soft skills like communication, which are important in the job market

CA is more than passing exams — it's about becoming a confident, skilled finance professional.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to start your journey into the world of finance, audit, and business, this is the right time. Starting CA after intermediate gives you a head start and can lead to a successful and respected career.

The process might seem long, but with the right guidance, support, and consistency, it’s more than doable. Thousands of students just like you have walked this path and built incredible careers.