Finance Courses After 12th

Do you find finance to be an interesting field of work? Do you intend to pursue a profession in finance? We completely agree with you!  In fact, it wouldn't be an exaggeration to suggest that finance is the future.

Take a look at these figures: After expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.5% since 2016, the worldwide financial services market reached $23,328.73 billion in 2021. At a pace of 7.4%, the growth narrative is anticipated to continue and reach $33,313.50 billion in 2026. It is also anticipated to reach $45,149.00 billion in 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2026.

Pursuing a career in finance has growth potential, global opportunities, and the chance to work in dynamic environments. Here's an in-depth look at the top finance courses after the 12th grade.

1. Chartered Accountant (CA)

About

Chartered Accountancy is considered the most professionally respected finance qualification, providing professionals with experience in taxation, auditing, financial reporting, and business advisory services. It is very important for strong financial systems and maintaining regulations.

Eligibility

Foundation Entry: After completing 12th grade in any stream (Commerce background preferred). This has a Direct Entry Scheme: Graduates with 55% marks in Commerce or 60% in other streams can join directly at the Intermediate level. 

Curriculum

Foundation Level:

• Accounting
• Business Law
• Quantitative Aptitude
• Business Economics

Foundation Level:

• Advanced Accounting
• Corporate and Other Laws
• Taxation
• Cost and Management Accounting
• Auditing and Assurance
• Financial Management and Strategic Management

Final Level:

• Financial Reporting
• Advanced Financial Management
• Advanced Auditing, Assurance and Professional Ethics
• Direct Tax Laws and International Taxation
• Indirect Taxation
• Integrated Business Solutions

Career Prospects

CAs can be appointed in audit firms, banks, or multinational corporations or start their independent practices. Key positions include Tax Consultant, Auditor, and Financial Analyst.

Salary Package

• Freshers: ₹6–8 lakhs per annum
• Experienced Professionals: ₹20–40 lakhs per annum  

2. Certified Management Accountant (US CMA)  

About

The US CMA mainly concentrates on management accounting that involves decision-making, budgeting, and financial strategy, suitable for students for top management in finance and business.

Eligibility

• Students can start after the 12th grade.
• To qualify, one must have a bachelor's degree and two years of work experience in management accounting.

Curriculum

• Part 1 – Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics:
  Cost management, variance analysis, budgeting, and internal controls.
• Part 2 – Strategic Financial Management:
  Emphasis on investment decisions, risk management, and professional ethics.

Career Prospects

US CMAs are in high demand in Fortune 500 companies and leadership roles like Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A), Budget Analyst, and Business Controller.

Salary Package

₹7–10 lakhs per annum

3. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

About

The CFA is a globally respected qualification for professionals in investment banking, portfolio management, and equity research. It focuses on advanced financial and investment management.

Eligibility

One needs to hold a bachelor's degree or be in the final year of the program; no specific stream is required. This makes it accessible to anyone interested in investment and finance.

Curriculum

• Level 1: Investment tools, ethics and financial reporting.
• Level 2: Advanced asset valuation, portfolio management, and credit risk modelling.
• Level 3: Emphasizes wealth management strategies and handling risk.

Career Prospects

CFA professionals are excellent for positions like Portfolio Manager, Investment Banker, and Research Analyst in major financial houses mutual funds and hedge funds.
 

Salary Package 

• India: ₹6–12 lakhs per annum
• Globally: $80,000–$180,000 per annum  

4. Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

About

ACCA is a universally accepted qualification in the field of accounting and finance. It provides flexible modular exams and international reach to over 180 countries.

Eligibility

- Students can start after completing their 12th grade.
- Graduates are rewarded with exemption from up to 9 exams of the graduate recruitment stages if they hold relevant qualifications.

Curriculum

Applied Knowledge:

• Financial Accounting
• Management Accounting
• Business Technology

Applied Skills:

• Corporate Reporting
• Performance Management
• Financial Management

Strategic Professional:

• Audit and Taxation

Career Prospects

ACCA-certified professionals are in demand in multinational corporations, banks, and global firms. Roles include Financial Accountant, Auditor, and Tax Consultant.

Salary Package

• India: ₹4–8 lakhs per annum
• Globally: $50,000–$80,000 per annum

5. Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)

About

B.Com is the foundational undergraduate program in commerce, economics, and finance. It develops a comprehensive business principle of learning and acts as a springboard for further professional certifications like CA, ACCA, and CMA.

Eligibility

All students from any stream are eligible after 12th grade. A commerce stream would be preferred.

Curriculum

• Accounting and Finance
• Economics and Business Management
• Electives: Banking, Taxation, and HR Management

Career Opportunities

Graduates can take up jobs such as Account Assistant, Taxation Executive, or Jr Analyst.

Compensation Package

• ₹2.5–5 lakhs per annum
• With certifications: ₹10–15 lakhs per annum

6. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

About

CPA is a globally accredited certification in accounting and finance, offered by the AICPA. It includes expertise in auditing, taxation, and business laws, ensuring great respect in public and private sectors.

Eligibility

Requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field (120 credit hours for CPA exams and 150 credit hours for licensing).

Curriculum

• REG - Taxation and Regulations
• FAR - Financial Accounting and Reporting
• AUD - Auditing and Attestation
• TCP - Tax Compliance and Planning
• ISC - Information Security and Control
• BAR - Business Analysis and Reporting

Career Opportunities

Positions like Account Executive, Finance Manager, and Senior Account Manager.

Salary Package

• ₹6–12 lakhs per annum

7. Online Finance Course

About

Stock trading, financial modelling, blockchain, and more can be studied through flexible short-term online courses.

Eligibility

No formal requirement; anyone with interest can join.

Curriculum

• Stock Market Certification: Technical and fundamental analysis
• Financial Modelling: Excel for valuations
• Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: Decentralized finance
• Data Analytics: Power BI, Python, and Tableau

Career Prospects

Prepares for roles in trading, financial analysis, and fintech.

Salary Package

• ₹3–7 lakhs per annum

Each finance course has its niche benefits suited best to a specific career path. Whether it is globally certified accounting, investment management, or laying the base with B.Com, there's much more to be discovered in this world of finance. Make the right choice, and get going today to make your career worthwhile!