Chartered Accountancy Myths vs Reality Explained

By IIC Lakshya

30 Jan 2026

Chartered Accountancy Myths vs Reality Explained

If you are pursuing the Chartered Accountancy (CA), you must be aware of the reality. Here are some of the myths and misconceptions about the CA course and examination. We will discuss these myths and resolve them with the discussion of the reality. CA aspirants must know these aspects to have a better shot at the profession and success.

Myth 1: CA is Extremely Difficult

A lot of people think that Chartered Accountancy is a difficult course, and they are right. There are challenges, but it is not impossible to crack. Below is the actual reality that will help us dispel the myth surrounding the difficulty level of passing the CA exam. Read about the CA Exam dates 2026 to stay updated.

Reality: CA is difficult but not impossible to crack

With a strategic study plan, discipline, and consistency, candidates can crack the CA exam. It is a challenging course; however, if the aspirants develop a systematic preparation method to develop a better understanding of the CA concepts and subjects.

Myth 2: Only Commerce Students Can Pursue CA

It is a popular myth that only Commerce students can pursue the Chartered Accountancy (CA) course. The knowledge and the preparation about subjects related to the CA course might be better grasped with a Commerce background. However, it is not a necessity.

Reality: Students from any stream can pursue CA

Students from the Science and Arts streams can pursue the CA course and attend the CA examination. With the right guidance, support, and discipline, they can develop an understanding of the foundational concepts of CA.

Myth 3: Chartered Accountancy Needs Expertise in Math

A significant myth that is maintained in CA is that candidates must have expertise in math. Yes, numerical skills are necessary for pursuing the CA, but that doesn’t mean that someone does not have any expertise in math. Learn about the right CA course for working professionals, the related challenges and solutions.

Reality: Numerical skills are essential, but math is not compulsory

The subject of math is not the only aspect for candidates who are preparing for the CA exam. They need to learn both theoretical and practical skills related to finance, forensic accounting, entrepreneurship, audit, taxation, and investment banking. The CA course is more about business understanding and analytical thinking

Myth 4: Job Opportunities are Limited for CAs

It is a myth about CA having limited job opportunities, and it is completely baseless. With the rising demand for professionals who can handle the financial responsibilities of an organisation to give advice on strategies related to investment, CA professionals are everywhere. Read about the CA Foundation Course Fee details in 2026.

Reality: CAs are in High Demand

One of the most demanding professions, CA is necessary in both individual and business-level decision-making. A recognised and respectable position, CA professionals offer diverse skills apart from accounting and auditing. Candidates learn about time management skills and make career choices based on their learnings of this course.

Myth 5: CA is Only About Taxation and Auditing

A common myth is that CA professionals only do work related to auditing and taxation. Unfortunately, that is not the case. The designation and job responsibilities are much more diverse, leading to various aspects of the financial sector.

Reality: CA offers diverse career opportunities

Different areas like investment banking, entrepreneurship, forensic accounting, and consultancy, audit, and finance have job opportunities for CA professionals. They have the business understanding to offer expertise into decision making of the companies along with going above and beyond the traditional roles of accounting. They also get to learn what accounting is, its meaning, key features and career.

Myth 6: Articleship is Just Cheap Labour

Working for another organisation for the CA articleship is considered cheap labour by many. A lot of candidates consider the articleship as just working clerical responsibilities; however, the reality is very different.

Reality: Articleship shapes your career

Articleship offers real-world experience in the CA professional responsibilities, like accounting, taxation, corporate compliance, and auditing. A Chartered Accountant becomes industry-ready for the future in the finance sector, leading to career growth and job opportunities. Read accountant vs actuary to develop an understanding of which career is right for you. Big multinational organisations, banks, and financial institutions hire CA professionals.

Wrapping Up!

In conclusion, anyone preparing for the CA exam must address these myths. It will help them understand the origin of the myth and what the actual reality behind it is. These significant aspects help in developing a better understanding of how accounting works, along with investment and risk management.

Frequently Asked Questions on CA Common Myth vs Reality

What are the red flags for accountants?

There are several red flags for accountants, namely frequent errors in financial reports, missing deadlines, lack of transparency, and incomplete or value documentation.

What is the failure rate of CA?

The failure rate of CA is quite high, especially with the pass percentages often in the lower double digits, around 10 to 25%. With different levels, Foundation, Intermediate, and Final levels, the difficulty level keeps increasing, making it difficult to pass.

What is the toughest subject in CA?

Accounting is one such subject that is considered quite tough in CA. Candidates need to have a solid understanding of the foundational concepts, along with conceptual learning of CA principles and standards.

Is CA salary low?

A fresher CA professional earns an average salary of INR 6 to 8 LPA; however, with experience, the salary increases. It can go up to INR 1 crore at some top firms.

Why do most students quit CA?

There are several students who quit CA because of a lack of appropriate planning. They can apply for different alternatives; however, students after 12th can apply for the CA exam with better discipline and integrity.