How to Become IFRS After 12th?

By IIC Lakshya

30 Jul 2025

In today's interconnected business environment, the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) serve as the key to transparency and uniformity finance and accounting mastering IFRS opens doors to multinational corporations as well as global finance companies as practically all of them look for professionals conversant with IFRS reporting standards. For students who’ve done their schooling in the commerce stream, pursuing IFRS certification can be a game-changing career move. But how exactly can you get IFRS-certified after schooling? Read on to find out.

What is IFRS?

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are well established standards for accounting formulated by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). IFRS certification ensures that an entity's financial statements can be verified and substantiated with the underlying data on a global scale.

Why Pursue IFRS After 12th?

Global Career Scope: Adherence to IFRS is a must have for almost all multinational companies and global financial institutions.
Preferred by Employers: IFRS-certified professionals are the most sought out of the commerce stream with banks, and funds, and auditing companies actively looking to recruit.
Adds Value to Your Degree: IFRS certification is a great add on to the traditional commerce degree B.Com, CA, ACCA, or CMA.
Foundation for Higher Studies: Understanding IFRS early on makes pursuing CA, ACCA, and MBA that much easier.

Steps to Become IFRS Certified After 12th

Step 1: Complete 12th with Commerce Stream

In order to build a strong working knowledge of IFRS, it is mandatory to study Accounting, Economics, Business Studies, and Math. Having strong fundamentals makes grasping IFRS easier later on.

Step 2: Join a Graduation Program

Starting to learn about IFRS can begin after 12th grade, but most formal certifications will need students to progress to at least a graduation level or related commerce degree. Recommended programs include:

B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce)
BBA in Finance
BMS (Bachelor of Management Studies)

Step 3: Acquire Basic Accounting Skills

If you’re planning far in advance, think about:

Enrolling in short term financial accounting courses
Reading international accounting textbooks
Completing tutorials or free courses on YouTube, Swayam, and edX

Step 4: Selecting an IFRS Certification Program

Here are some of the most sought after IFRS certifications:

Diploma in IFRS by ACCA (UK)

Eligibility: Considered an ACCA qualification after graduation or accounting qualification (CA, CMA, B.Com) along with 2+ years of work experience.
Duration: 3 to 6 months
Examination: Single 3 hour paper (conducted biannually)
Recognition: MNCs and the Big 4 accept it without need for further qualification.

Certificate in IFRS by ICAI (India)

Primarily aimed at CA members, students can target after CA finals.

IFRS Courses by NSE Academy, KPMG, or EY

These are short term online courses that provide exposure to IFRS and its practical uses.
Perfect for B.Com, CA, CMA, and ACCA students.

Step 5: Sign Up for the Course and Begin Your Studies

At this stage, you can:

Register through online or offline coaching centers.
Learn the modules on IFRS and international accounting standards.
Work on MCQs and past papers for solid exam preparation.

Step 6: Take the Exam and Get Certified

Preparing consistently enables you to pass the requisite exam and earn the IFRS certification, which will be a key asset for international finance positions.

Career Options Available After IFRS Certification

With IFRS certification, you are eligible for positions like:

IFRS Reporting Analyst
Financial Controller
Financial Analyst
Audit Associate (Big 4 Firms)
Finance Manager in Multinational Corporations
Global Accountant with a focus on cross-border compliance

Did You Know?

Over 140 countries have adopted IFRS or aligned their financial reporting frameworks with it. India adopted Ind AS which converged its standards with IFRS to enhance transparency and attract international investments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Right after my 12th grade, can I get an IFRS certification?

Unfortunately, no. Most IFRS certifications require someone to have completed their graduation or have relevant work experience. Nevertheless, starting to learn IFRS concepts right after 12th would be a smart way to make early preparation.

In India, is an IFRS certification useful?

Of course. With the advent of Ind AS, knowledge of IFRS is important for a Chartered Accountant, for auditing, and working in the finance division of a multinational company.

What is the most suitable IFRS certification for students?

For students aspiring to have a global career in accounting and finance, the Diploma in IFRS from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is a great option as it is recognized all over the world.