Careers after 12th Commerce
CA, CS, CMA, banking, finance, business and government jobs – the best careers for commerce students and how to start.
Commerce is the stream of business, money and markets. It leads to some of the best-paid professional careers in India.
Professional courses
| Course | Body | Entry after 12th | Typical time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chartered Accountant (CA) | ICAI | CA Foundation | 4.5–5 years |
| Company Secretary (CS) | ICSI | CSEET | 3–4 years |
| Cost & Management Accountant (CMA) | ICMAI | CMA Foundation | 3–4 years |
See the step-by-step guide to becoming a chartered accountant.
Degrees
- B.Com / B.Com (Hons) – accounts, tax, banking; good base for MBA, M.Com and government exams.
- BBA / Integrated MBA (IPM) – management and business.
- BA / B.Sc Economics – economist, analyst, policy research, RBI Grade B (DEPR).
- Actuarial Science – insurance and risk (exams by the Institute of Actuaries of India).
Government jobs
Banking is a natural fit: IBPS PO, SBI PO, RBI Grade B, insurance (LIC AAO), plus accountant and auditor posts through SSC CGL.
Skills that help
Excel, Tally/accounting software, GST basics, communication, and understanding of financial news.
Still confused?Take the 2-minute career finder quiz, or check which government exams you are already eligible for.Career quizEligibility
Course fees, seats, exam patterns and salaries change over time and differ between institutions and states. Use this guide to plan, and confirm details on official websites before you decide.