When comparing CA vs CS, it is critical to understand their roles. A company secretary (CS) is an expert in corporate governance who counsels companies on best practices and legal compliance. A Chartered Accountant (CA) is more concerned with financial management, audits, and tax rules.
CA’s extensive understanding of finance makes it a good alternative for people seeking corporate leadership or employment in financial institutions. In order to make the best decision for you, it is important to base it on your personal interests and professional goals.
What is Chartered Accountancy?
The ICAI-affiliated field of Chartered Accountancy provides global services in financial management, accounting, and auditing. Chartered accountants are proficient in risk assessment, managing client accounts, and providing financial direction for future growth.
Who is a Company Secretary?
A Company Secretary (CS) is responsible for making sure a business adheres to all applicable laws and regulations. They keep an eye on duties like maintaining records, filing taxes, and advising the board of directors.
These people receive training from the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). Their work is crucial to the organization’s efficient corporate governance and management of legal obligations.
CA and CS Difference
The main difference between CA and CS is certification. CA (Chartered Accountant) is certified by ICAI, while CS (Company Secretary) is certified by ICSI, with each role focusing on different areas of finance and corporate law.
| Differences | CA | CS |
| Conducting Body | Institute of Chartered Accountants of India [ICAI] is the main conducting body | Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) |
| Who should opt for it? | Applicants with a strong mathematics and logical reasoning background | Candidates with a preference for theory and legal stages. |
| Stages | Foundation, Intermediate, and Final Course.Note: One can also follow the direct entry route | Foundation, Executive, and Professional ProgrammeNote: The number of levels can vary based on the |
| Course Duration | 5 years | 2-3 years |
| Entrance Exam | Chartered Accountancy Common Proficiency Test | Company Secretary Executive Entrance Test |
| Eligibility Criteria | Candidates who have qualified their 12th exams with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks can register for the CA Foundation 2021 exam. Candidates who have an aggregate of 55% marks in graduation or post-graduation degree in Commerce stream or its equivalent from any recognized university/open university are exempted from CA Foundation 2021. | For the Foundation Programme, (10+2 pass or equivalent from any stream)Executive Programme (Graduation in any discipline other than fine arts).Professional Programme (Executive Programme) |
| Job Profiles | AuditorAccountantCredit Analyst Forensic Audit Financial Analyst Research Analyst Investment Advisor | Associate Company SecretaryLegal AdvisorCorporate Policymaker Principal Secretary Company Registrar Corporate Planner Chief Administrative Officer |
| Average Salary | Rs. 8-7 Lakhs | Rs. 6- 5 Lakhs |
| Employment Opportunities | Accounting, Taxation, Auditing, etc. | Public Relations, Corporate Governance, Corporate Law Advisor, International Trade & WTO, etc. |
| Official Website | https://www.icai.org/ | https://www.icsi.edu/home/ |
Career Options: CA vs CS
Choosing between a career as a Chartered Accountant (CA) or a Company Secretary (CS) can be challenging. While both options start in the field of commerce, they go in different directions and call for various training and credentials.
How to Be a Chartered Accountant (CA)?
If you’re interested in becoming a CA, strong mathematical skills are essential for managing accounting and budgeting tasks. Here’s a simple path to follow:
1. Register with ICAI: Start by registering with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.
2. Complete the CPT: After finishing your 12th grade, qualify for the Competency Professional Test (CPT) and pursue a degree in Commerce or a related field.
3. Take the IPC: Once you have your degree, clear the Integrated Professional Competence (IPC) exam.
4. Gain Experience: Complete a three-year articleship under a qualified CA to gain practical experience.
5. Final Exam: Finally, pass the CA final exam.
How to Become a Company Secretary (CS)?
For those considering a CS career, critical thinking is crucial for handling company affairs and making decisions. Here’s how to get started:
1. Register with ICSI: Enroll with the Institute of Company Secretaries of India.
2. Foundation Course: Complete an 8-month Foundation course.
3. Executive Program: Follow this with a 1-year Executive Program for further qualifications.
4. Professional Course: Finally, complete a 1-year Professional course to specialize.
If you’re starting after graduation, you can complete the Executive and Professional courses in about two years.
Course Duration
Generally, a CS program can be completed in 2-3 years, while CA typically takes about 5 years.
Eligibility Criteria
Both Chartered Accountant (CA) and Company Secretary (CS) are popular career options in India, often pursued after completing 12th grade. Here’s a brief overview of the eligibility criteria for each:
Chartered Accountant (CA)
Students must have at least 50% in their 12th exams to register for the CA Foundation exam.
Those with 55% in a Commerce degree or equivalent can skip the Foundation exam.
Company Secretary (CS)
Any student who has completed their 12th grade can enroll in the 8-month ICSI Foundation Course. They must complete this course within three years and then pass the ICSI Intermediate and Final courses, along with the required training.
Differences in Subjects
In comparing CA and CS, it’s essential to look at their syllabus. Both fields are related but provide unique knowledge and skills for different sectors of business and finance.
| CA | CS |
| Fundamentals of Accounting | Company Law |
| Auditing and Assurance | Tax Law |
| Financial Management and Cost Accounting | Economic Labour and Industrial Law |
| Direct Taxes | General and Commercial Laws |
| Management Accounting | Banking Laws |
| Financial Analysis | Insurance – Laws and Practices |
CA vs CS: Differences in Career Opportunities
Students pursuing a career as Company Secretary (CS) can find diverse opportunities in large corporate firms worldwide, working in governance, administration, and stakeholder relations. They can also choose to work independently as Company Secretaries for various organizations.
On the other hand, Chartered Accountants (CAs) generally have broader career prospects. Offering a more excellent range of options, they can work in both the public and private sectors, including government agencies, banks, law firms, and business enterprises.
CA and CS Salaries
The average income for the two professions is the next step in our CA vs CS comparison. CA’s average pay exceeds that of CS. According to Glassdoor, the average compensation of a CA and CS in India is as follows:
| Avg. Salary | CA | CS |
| 8 Lakhs | 6 Lakhs |
Summing Up
Your interests and career goals will influence whether you choose a Chartered Accountant (CA) or a Company Secretary (CS). Whereas CSs concentrate on legal compliance and corporate governance, CAs specialize in finance and auditing. Both courses offer successful jobs, so consider your skills and objectives to choose the best option for your future with Lecture Kharido.
FAQs
Q.1 Is CS harder than CA?
Ans. The difficulty level varies by individual. CA is frequently seen as more complex than CS due to its emphasis on finance and accounting, as well as the tough tests.
Q.2 Which is better, CA vs CS?
Ans. It all depends on your job aspirations. CA is appropriate for finance positions, but CS is best suited to people interested in corporate governance and legal issues. Choose based on your unique interests.
Q.3 Who earns more, CA or CS?
Ans. CAs typically earn more than CSs. CAs’ average compensation is higher due to their roles in finance and auditing, which provide more career options.
Q.4 Is CA in demand in the future?
Ans. Yes, CA experts are expected to stay in high demand as financial rules strengthen, and the need for financial expertise grows across industries.
