Cleared Both Groups? Here’s How to Kickstart Your Articleship Journey

So, the CA Inter results are out… and you’ve done it — cleared both groups! First off, take a deep breath and soak it all in. You’ve crossed a huge milestone, and it’s no small feat. But now comes the real deal — Articleship.

Yes, the next 2 years of your life are going to shape not just your resume, but the kind of Chartered Accountant you’ll become. So, let’s talk about how to begin this journey smartly, step by step — no jargon, just real talk.


1. Understand What’s Ahead – New Scheme Edition

Under the new CA scheme, Articleship can only be started after both groups of CA Inter are cleared. So if you’re here, you’re eligible — congrats!

You’ll be required to complete 2 years of practical training before you can appear for CA Final. That means your firm selection, exposure, and learning curve really matter now.


2. Don’t Rush – Choose the Right Firm

We get it — once the results are out, everyone starts scrambling to join any firm they can find. But don’t jump into it blindly.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I want exposure to multiple industries or a specialized one (like banks, PSUs, or startups)?
  • Would I prefer a Big 4, mid-size, or small firm?
  • Do I want statutory audits, GST, taxation, litigation, or something else?

Try speaking to seniors, alumni, or colleagues about their experiences — real reviews are worth gold here.


3. Resume Ready? Make It Count

Yes, even as a fresher, your resume matters. Don’t just mention your CA Inter marks. Add:

  • Any internships or accounting work
  • Excel/Tally knowledge
  • Certification courses
  • Leadership in college events
  • Soft skills or languages (even Hindi/English fluency matters in client work!)

Pro tip: Keep it clean, 1-page, and error-free.


4. Practice for Interviews

Not all firms do formal interviews, but many good ones do. Here are some things they might ask:

  • “Why do you want to join our firm?”
  • Basic questions from Accounting Standards or Tax
  • Whether you’re okay with late hours or travelling
  • Excel shortcuts or practical case-based questions

Just be honest, confident, and humble. They’re not expecting you to know everything — they want to see your attitude to learn.


5. Start Brushing Up Practical Skills

Before you join, get comfortable with:

  • MS Excel (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, Filters)
  • Tally or any ERP software
  • GST basics and how returns are filed
  • Reading financial statements
  • Communication & email etiquette

If you have 15–30 days free before joining, use it to upskill. It’ll give you a big edge in your first few weeks.


6. Networking & Referrals

If you don’t want to apply through ICAI’s portal, ask your seniors, mentors, or even LinkedIn connections to refer you. Referrals work like magic.

Also, many firms don’t advertise openings, but they’re hiring — so keep an eye on firm websites, LinkedIn posts, and WhatsApp groups.


7. Register with ICAI

Once selected, don’t forget the official part:

  • Fill Form 102 (Deed of Articleship) and Form 103 (Registration)
  • Submit them online through the ICAI SSP portal
  • Ensure your Principal signs and approves your forms on time

You’ll receive a confirmation mail and eventually your Articleship registration letter.


✨ Final Words

Starting Articleship is exciting, confusing, and slightly scary — all at once. But remember this: every top CA was once in your shoes, nervous about where to start.

Don’t aim for a perfect firm — aim for the right learning, the right attitude, and the right work ethic. The rest will follow.

So… put on that semi-formal shirt, polish that resume, and step into this new chapter with confidence. You’ve earned it.

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