CPA vs. CA Difference: Which is Better for Your Career?

The demand for education and expertise in the accounting profession has grown steadily due to the ongoing changes in accounting regulations in different countries. Accounting professionals now understand the value of specific knowledge and skill development, which has allowed them to reassess their career paths. It has led to the discussion of the US CPA vs. CA difference and whether one is superior.

These two top professional certifications in accounting and finance are the finest for landing prestigious jobs and getting high wages. You may have various questions while choosing between these two professional certification programs; therefore, it’s important to understand the advantages and disadvantages and the US CPA vs. CA difference to get more clarity.

So, in this blog, we will discuss all the aspects.

What is the Difference Between US CPA and CA?

The following list and discussion outline the primary differences between a US Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Chartered Accountant (CA):

• US CPA stands for US Certified Public Accountant, and these exams are administered by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). In contrast, CA stands for Chartered Accountant, and The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) oversees these examinations.
• CPA is an international degree recognized internationally, whereas CA is an Indian degree that is mostly accepted in India and, to a lesser extent, in a few Middle Eastern nations.
• CPA includes International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as well as Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) of US, whereas CA encompasses Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
• The minimum time needed for an applicant to pass the CA exam is four to five years, but the minimum and maximum amounts of time needed to complete the CPA program are seven months and one year, respectively.
• Examinations for the CPA are given online; exams for the CA are given offline.
• To get a CA license, a candidate must complete at least three years of Articleship in a firm of chartered accountants, although this requirement is not relevant to CPA students.
• The CPA exam has four exam parts, including FAR, AUD, BEC, and REG, but the CA exams are administered through four levels:

1. Common Proficiency Test (CPT)
2. the Integrated Professional Competence Course (IPCC OR IPCE)
3. And the final exam.