Becoming a CA

Last Updated 07 March 2012 08:21:22 AM

Becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) opens doors. It is your gateway to a challenging and exciting career, global mobility, flexibility and great earning potential in the business field of your choice.

How do I become a CA(SA)?

For learners at high school level

As a learner, your subject choice needs to include Core Mathematics.

The minimum requirements to obtain a university entrance are a level 4 pass in Core Mathematics together with a matric exemption certificate. Your mark in English is also an important factor. You must also ensure that the university is accredited by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).

Always aim to obtain good results all around.
A good grounding in English is essential as it will assist you to have a better understanding of the concepts.
Having Accounting may benefit you in your degree, but it is not compulsory at most universities.

You must work consistently and always seek assistance if you experience any challenges with your studies. Perseverance and effort will help you achieve your end goal.

For students at university level studying on a full time basis

To pursue a career as a Chartered Accountant you will need to enroll for a B Com Accounting degree or an equivalent CA(SA) undergraduate qualification at a SAICA accredited university.

Once you have completed your degree you will be required to complete your Certificate in the Theory of Accounting (CTA). This course focuses on Accounting, Auditing, Taxation and Financial Management. The course takes a minimum of one year and must be completed at a SAICA accredited university.

Upon completion of your CTA, you are then eligible to enter into a 3-year learnership with a Registered Training Office (RTO) (to specialise in auditing) or an Approved Training Organisation (ATO) (to specialise in financial management).

For students studying on a part time basis

To pursue a career as a Chartered Accountant on a part time basis you will be able to immediately enter into a five-year training contract with a Registered Training Office (RTO) upon which you must complete a B Com Accounting degree or equivalent CA (SA) undergraduate qualification as then complete the CTA or equivalent.

The same pre-requisites apply for as for entering into full-time study.

Another option is to complete your undergraduate qualification full time and then enter into a 4-year learnership at an RTO or ATO and complete your CTA or equivalent part-time.

View the video on How to Become a CA(SA)

Training

Complete learnership (duration varies depending on level of qualification when entering into the learnership.)
Complete part one of the Qualifying Examination (QE 1).
Complete specialist course relevant to your selected training programme in Financial Management or Auditing.
Complete part two of the Qualifying Examination (QE 2) (Financial management route) or Professional Practice Exam (PPE) (Auditing route) after having completed a minimum of 18-months of the training contract.

During your training it is your responsibility to drive your career. You must utilise every opportunity to learn about the business areas that you training office covers. It is imperative that you also attend technical and soft skills training as this will enable to improve your skills and execute your tasks/duties more effectively.

Qualifying as a CA(SA)

Successfully complete training and pass both examinations.

View "A Career in Accounting" diagram