The period of Articleship is an incredibly transformative time in the career of Chartered Accountants. It’s when accountants face various challenges and seize opportunities before stepping into their professional roles. This stage is all about gaining practical experience and applying what they’ve learned so far. Having the right guidance is crucial to balancing this with ongoing studies. Here’s how you can choose the best CA firms in India for your Articleship.
Working Hours: One of the first things to consider is the working hours at the CA firm. While your principal will inform you about the expected hours right from the start, it’s wise to talk to other employees to gauge the usual working hours. Also, check if the principal tends to demand more work from interns, giving you a sense of the actual work hours.
Leave for Exam Preparation: Before joining any firm, ensure they will grant you leave to prepare for your final exams, as passing them is essential to becoming a Chartered Accountant. If you’re planning to start your career in Gurgaon, remember to inquire about the leave policies of CA firms there.
Firm Size: The size of the firm is another crucial factor. Bigger firms might offer a heavier workload with less variety, potentially limiting your experience as you’ll likely work on the same projects for about three years. In contrast, smaller firms might provide a broader range of opportunities across various fields like taxation, auditing, and accounting, helping you gain expertise in different areas. However, completing your articleship at a reputable firm could give you an edge when setting up your practice. Keep these factors in mind when choosing a firm for practical exposure.
Traveling for Audits: Some candidates enjoy traveling for outstation audits, which top CA firms in India often provide. If traveling isn’t your thing, it’s best to discuss this upfront with the firm to prevent any issues later.
Stipend: Discussing the stipend and getting it confirmed in writing is vital. While top CA firms generally offer stipends to their interns, smaller and medium-sized firms might not always provide this benefit. Make sure to clarify any doubts about the stipend before joining.
Understanding the Work: Before committing to a firm, consult with the principal about the type of work and clients they deal with. If you’re considering CA firms in Delhi NCR, talking to friends in the area can give you a better idea of the roles and responsibilities you might take on during your articleship.
