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CA vs MBA: Know the differences- Looking at the present competitiveness, the importance of having a professional degree cannot be denied. On one hand, we have professional courses like Chartered Accountancy (CA), CS, and on the other side, we have a postgraduate degree like Master of Business Administration (MBA) through CAT 2024, which has its own benefit label. Usually, students are searching for CA vs MBA, which is better, Check out this article to know all the details pertaining to CA vs MBA, such as CA vs MBA salary, CA vs MBA from IIM, MBA vs CA: which is tough etc.
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There is a vast career scope for an MBA in several areas of business, along with effective knowledge in management, analysis, and business strategy. On the other hand, chartered accounting deals with specialisation in all fields of business and finance. If a candidate has a specific interest in the finance domain, then choosing between CA and MBA finance can be a tough decision to make.
Careers360 brings you clear details on CA vs MBA, course structure, scope after CA and scope after MBA, career path, MBA vs CA salary in India in comparison between the two courses, and much more.
Check out below the differences between CA and MBA based on various factors.
Particulars | CA | MBA |
Investment | Economical. The overall money invested in a CA certification is less compared to an MBA degree. | It is highly expensive if you are planning to do it from Top B-Schools like IIMs, XLRI, etc. |
Pass % | Out of 100, only 3–5% of candidates are able to qualify and get certified as CA. | 90–95% of candidates who opt for an MBA course end up getting good jobs. |
Career options | A few options are available. For a qualified CA, ample options are not available. | Wider options are available. |
Exposure | 3 years internship | few months internship, ranging from 3 to 6 months |
Difficulty Level | Tough | Moderate to Difficult |
If one wants to pursue CA, then he/she has to think in advance. Whereas an MBA course can add additional value to existing professions. Nowadays, even executive MBA courses for working professionals are also available.
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Chartered Accountancy is an international and professionally recognized course. In India, the CA course is conducted by ICAI, i.e., the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. A person who qualifies for the Chartered Accountancy course is known as CA. To be recognized as CA, candidates need to appear for the CPT (Common Proficiency Test) after clearing 10+2.
If any candidate does not wish to give the CPT level, then he or she can register for IPCC on the condition that they have a graduation degree. Keeping in mind the track record of passing candidates in the CA course, it is always advisable for candidates to have at least a graduation degree.
The main objective of the CA Course - To provide exposure to the Financial and Accounting sector.
In the investigation of MBA vs CA, one of the quests is why MBA and not CA. A Master’s in Business Administration commonly called an MBA is a postgraduate degree that is widely recognized all over the world. Candidates with an MBA degree are open to vast opportunities. Bachelor’s degree from any background like Science/ Humanities/ Commerce etc. is acceptable to pursue an MBA course.
To take admission in MBA courses, many national, state, and university exams are conducted, like CAT, MAT, XAT, CMAT, BMAT, ATMA, MAH CET, and many more.
The main objective of the MBA Course - To provide exposure to different domains like Marketing, Human Resources, Finance, International Business etc.
Events | CA Course | MBA Course |
Duration of Exam | Four years (only if candidates clear in the first attempt) | Two-year degree programme |
Once you know what CA and MBA basically are! The next step in MBA vs CA is to know the CA and MBA eligibility criteria. CA and MBA both occupy popular positions under top professional courses. Below mentioned eligibility criteria can be checked by candidates if they are planning to either take up the CA profession or pursue an MBA course degree.
Eligibility | Chartered Accountant (CA) | Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) |
Bachelor’s Degree | Not Mandatory | Mandatory |
Exam conducting body | No Single Body (IIMs) | |
Levels/Semesters | Three Levels i.e. CPT, IPCC, CA-Final | Four Semesters |
Job Aspect | Chartered Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager etc., | Manager, Team Leader, Human Resource Head, etc. |
Course | Particulars |
CA |
|
MBA |
|
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A Chartered Accountancy (CA) is way tougher than an MBA course. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is not that tough as compared to a CA. While pursuing CA, students have to study subjects like financial accounting, business environment, auditing, reporting, general management, taxation, etc.
Although many professional and diploma courses have emerged in recent times, the importance of CA courses cannot be overlooked. A well-qualified CA is in demand in all industries. As a CA, an individual can work with the government, public undertakings, or private sector companies as well. If one does not wish to work under someone, then CA has the option to practice individually.
The choice is yours—whether you are comfortable working in a small or midsize private practice, auditing and consulting firms, banking, or the corporate sector. You may get a chance to work with the Big 4 or join any multinational organisation (MNC). Almost every huge organisation has an accounting or finance department, and it’s up to you to decide where to apply.
Related Article- How to become a CA in India
Apart from the lucrative MBA salary in India package, a person having an MBA degree will have uplifted career opportunities. The importance of having an MBA degree can not be neglected. MBA can be pursued as a part-time MBA, full-time, or as a distance MBA. Candidates having MBA degrees have a demand in every industry. If you wish to know more about what an MBA is all about.
The international exchange programs give you networking opportunities and a chance to spend time at an international campus, get insights into another culture and their business scenario. The electives are the various specializations offered by the school. Some of the schools offer a wide range of electives that you can choose from as per your interests. The internships give you an opportunity to try your hand at some new area you wish to familiarize yourself with. It would be a good idea to check the placement statistics including the recruiting companies of the various schools while you apply.
Read More- All about the MBA
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The skills required to become a chartered accountant are:
An MBA graduate is expected to possess the following skillset:
The breakup for CA fees and the total amount is as follows:
CA Fee Breakup | Amount in Rupees (Rs)* |
CPC Registration fee | 6,000 |
Intermediate course registration fee (both groups) | 15,000 |
Articled training registration fee | 1,000 |
Final course registration fee | 22,000 |
ITT training | 6,500 |
Orientation | 7,000 |
GMCS-I | 5,500 |
GMCS-II | 5,500 |
Total | 68,500 |
*- These are the approximate figures, the actual fee may vary.
Also Check: IIM Fees for MBA
Before taking any decision to pursue CA or MBA check out the CA vs MBA salary one can after the completion of the course.
Some of the good companies offer an attractive starting salary for the right candidate. The average starting salary may range between Rs 6,00,000 to 7,00,000. Though bigger companies may pay a much higher compensation package, smaller firms would not be able to match this range.
Job Profile/Role | Minimum Salary Per Annum | Average Salary Per Annum | Maximum Salary Per Annum |
Rs. 3,89,000 | Rs. 7,97,786 | Rs. 10,60,000 | |
Rs. 4,76,000 | Rs. 9,44,493 | Rs. 11,70,000 | |
Human Resource Generalist | Rs. 1,59,000 | Rs. 2,94,138 | Rs. 6,78,000 |
Rs. 2,98,000 | Rs. 7,56,522 | Rs. 11,90,000 | |
Rs. 2,59,000 | Rs. 6,01,423 | Rs. 11,40,000 | |
Rs. 3,19,000 | Rs. 7,38,960 | Rs. 11,70,000 | |
Business Development Executive | Rs. 181,000 | Rs. 3,18,081 | Rs. 5,93,000 |
Rs. 5,01,000 | Rs. 12,38,000 | Rs. 20,00,000 | |
Assistant Human Resources Manager | Rs. 2,92,000 | Rs. 5,31,567 | Rs. 9,42,000 |
Rs. 2,03,000 | Rs. 4,24,954 | Rs. 9,59,000 | |
Rs. 1,67,000 | Rs. 3,05,043 | Rs. 5,54,000 | |
Business Analyst (IT) | Rs. 3,02,000 | Rs. 5,96,465 | Rs. 11,00,000 |
Rs. 4,07,000 | Rs. 7,81,611 | Rs. 11,40,000 | |
Senior Sales Executive | Rs. 2,20,000 | Rs. 3,99,836 | Rs. 7,22,000 |
Executive Assistant | Rs. 1,48,000 | Rs. 3,24,264 | Rs. 8,09,000 |
Rs. 2,23,000 | Rs. 4,38,313 | Rs. 8,47,000 | |
Regional Sales Manager | Rs. 5,57,000 | Rs. 11,83,000 | Rs. 20,00,000 |
Finance Manager | Rs. 5,22,000 | Rs. 11,42,000 | Rs. 23,00,000 |
Rs. 3,39,000 | Rs. 7,00,000 | Rs. 15,00,000 | |
Rs. 5,62,000 | Rs. 13,50,000 | Rs. 20,00,000 |
Note- It must be noted that the above-mentioned table only shows the approximate values. The salary may vary.
It’s purely based on your interest and the area you wish to work in. The scope of work for a CA is mainly in the field of finance and accounting area whereas MBAs have more diversity to choose from. There are CAs as well as MBAs who have climbed up the ladder and reached higher positions, though we may say that in certain areas like investment banking, financial consulting, or mergers, and acquisitions, an MBA would be preferred over a CA.
On the other hand, there are instances of CAs who have picked new skills while on the job and handled greater responsibilities than someone who has an MBA degree. There are also CA professionals who apply to international MBA programs to have a shot at a global career. So, we can sum up that a lot depends on the nature of your job, the related responsibilities, and the learning involved.
A Chartered Accountant (CA) is a financial professional qualified to perform certain accounting procedures. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate degree that provides theoretical and practical training in business or investment management.
In the field of business and finance, both MBA and CA are popular degrees and career options.
CA is considered to be tougher than MBA by most experts.
Both CA and MBA have the possibility of having a high amount of salary depending on the role and employer of candidates.
It’s purely based on your interest and the area you wish to work in. The scope of work for a CA is mainly in the field of finance and accounting area whereas MBAs have more diversity to choose from fields such as HR, finances and other.
The student cannot join the postgraduate MA program directly in the second year of the MA after completing the MBA.
Universities generally expect students to begin the first year of a masters' program even though they had qualifications at the level of a bachelor's degree. The university's curriculum along with the courses are planned to give an in-depth knowledge of the subjects.
But you could opt for:
Postgraduate Studies:
Research Career: In case research interests you, then you can pursue a Ph.D. in your specific interest.
Specialized Master's Programs: Find any specific master's course that supports the career goal.
Professional Certifications:
Make a professional certification in CFA, CA, or FRM to enhance the professional skills and better opportunities in the career field.
Job Entry via MBA
After gaining an MBA from a renowned institution, it's possible to get entry into the corporate world where the diversity in the career field is assured.
In the end, it would depend on what you would like and what you are particularly interested in. It will be better if you take a suggestion from your academic advisor or career counselor.
Hello Pratik,
If your family income exceeds 8 LPA, it will affect your eligibility for the NC-OBC category under the CAT reservation rules. The NC-OBC category requires that the family income should be below 8 LPA to qualify. If you anticipate that your income will exceed this threshold, you should update your status and notify the CAT authorities .
Here's what you can do:
Email the CAT authorities
: Inform them about the potential change in your income status and request to be considered under the
General
category, if applicable. You should do this before the examination or any further processing, as your eligibility for the OBC category depends on the income criteria.
Documents and Proof
: Make sure you have a valid
OBC certificate
and any relevant documentation regarding your family income, in case they require verification. Also, be aware that if your income exceeds 8 LPA, you might need to apply under the
General
category, as the OBC-NC reservation is no longer applicable.
General Category Consideration : If your application is accepted as General, you will be evaluated based on the General category criteria, including cutoffs and ranking.
To summarize, notifying the CAT authorities is the correct approach to avoid discrepancies later, and if your income is above the threshold, you will be treated as a General candidate for the admissions process.
For more details about CAT exam you can check out an article by Careers360 whose link is given below:
Link: https://bschool.careers360.com/exams/cat
I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.
Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.
Hi Shreya ,
Having a tattoo on your wrist should not create a problem during the CAT exam as long as it does not contain any content that violates exam rules , such as communication-related symbols , unauthorised messages or any text resembling formulas or answers .
For a safe side , it is recommended :
1. Inform the Invigilators : Let them know about your tattoo during the identification check , so there are no misunderstandings .
2. Follow the Guidelines : Ensure you follow all instructions regarding permissible items and dress code on the exam day .
Hope this helps you .
ALL THE BEST .
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Hello,
Yes, you can also join IIMs two years after graduation, depending upon the justification in interviews and your performance in entrance exams. If you are not sure about CAT, try those other management exams less hard:
Common Management Admission Test: Easier than CAT; 4-5 months of continuous preparation will suffice.
MAT : Much easier and takes place thrice a year.
SNAP (Symbiosis National Aptitude Test): A bit easier than CAT, apt for Symbiosis Institutes.
Xavier Aptitude Test or XAT : Hence, easier than CAT but the unique decision-making section.
Use exams like CMAT and MAT as a challenge to be competitively prepared. This can be given about 4-5 months, along with a few rounds of mock tests and smart studying.
A career as Marketing Director is also known as a marketing expert who is responsible for the overall marketing aspect of the company. He or she oversees plans and develops the company's budget. The marketing Director collaborates with the business team to plan and develop the marketing and branding strategies for the company's products or services.
A Business Development Executive (BDE) is a professional responsible for identifying growth opportunities and fostering strategic partnerships to enhance a company's market position. Typically, a BDE conducts market research, analyses industry trends, and identifies potential clients or business prospects. He or she plays a crucial role in developing and implementing sales strategies to achieve revenue targets.
A BDE often collaborates with cross-functional teams, including marketing and product development, to align business objectives. Strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills are essential for success in this role. BDE strives to expand the company's customer base, drive sales, and contribute to overall organisational growth in a dynamic and competitive business environment.
Content Marketing Specialists are also known as Content Specialists. They are responsible for crafting content, editing and developing it to meet the requirements of digital marketing campaigns. To ensure that the material created is consistent with the overall aims of a digital marketing campaign, content marketing specialists work closely with SEO and digital marketing professionals.
A sales manager is a revenue-generating source for a company. Any organisation or company which sells a commodity or service requires sales to generate revenue. A Sales manager is a professional responsible for supervising the sales team. An Individual as a sales manager works closely with salespeople, assigns sales territories, sets quotas, mentors the members of the sales, assigns sales training, and builds a sales plan.
The Sales Manager work also includes hiring and laying off sales personnel after evaluating his or her work performance. In bigger entities, sales quotas and plans are usually set at the executive level. He or she is responsible for overseeing the set target or quotas met by salespeople or upholding any policy. He or she guides his or her fellow salespeople and allows them to sell.
Individuals who opt for a career as a business analyst look at how a company operates. He or she conducts research and analyses data to improve his or her knowledge about the company. This is required so that an individual can suggest the company strategies for improving their operations and processes.
In a business analyst job role a lot of analysis is done, things are learned from past mistakes and the successful strategies are enhanced further. A business analyst goes through real-world data in order to provide the most feasible solutions to an organisation. Students can pursue Business Analytics to become Business Analysts.
A marketing manager is a person who oversees a company or product marketing. He or she can be in charge of multiple programmes or goods or can be in charge of one product. He or she is enthusiastic, organised, and very diligent in meeting financial constraints. He or she works with other team members to produce advertising campaigns and decides if a new product or service is marketable.
A Marketing manager plans and executes marketing initiatives to create demand for goods and services and increase consumer awareness of them. A marketing manager prevents unauthorised statements and informs the public that the business is doing everything to investigate and fix the line of products. Students can pursue an MBA in Marketing Management courses to become marketing managers.
An SEO Analyst is a web professional who is proficient in the implementation of SEO strategies to target more keywords to improve the reach of the content on search engines. He or she provides support to acquire the goals and success of the client’s campaigns.
Digital marketing is growing, diverse, and is covering a wide variety of career paths. Each job function aids in the development of effective digital marketing strategies and techniques. The aims and objectives of the individuals who opt for a career as a digital marketing executive are similar to those of a marketing professional: to build brand awareness, promote company services or products, and increase conversions. Individuals who opt for a career as Digital Marketing Executives, unlike traditional marketing companies, communicate effectively through suitable technology platforms.
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