Check how Commerce students can tap into global careers with right certifications

With hundreds and thousands of foreign corporations setting up their operations in India, the demand for skilled accounting professionals familiar with international accounting standards is surging, presenting immense opportunities for commerce students. To successfully tap into these opportunities and pursue their passion in accounting, students can pursue the following certifications:

● US Certified Public Accountant (CPA): The US CPA is a prestigious accounting certification recognized globally, encompassing expertise in financial analysis, auditing, and tax preparation. There are four exams in the CPA certification: three Core sections, each lasting four hours, and one Discipline section that has three options to choose from, also four hours long. Compared to Indian accounting exams, it is considerably easier, enabling students to complete the certification within 9-12 months. It prepares candidates for diverse roles, ranging from public accounting to government regulatory bodies and international organisations.

● US Certified Management Accountant (CMA): Focused on management accounting and strategic financial management, the CMA credential is ideal for those aiming to hold influential positions in corporate finance, including roles such as CFO or financial controller. Any individual who has passed the 12th grade is eligible to take the CMA exam. However, the eligibility criteria for obtaining the CMA certification include a bachelor’s degree and two years of relevant experience. Conducted in two parts, it typically takes around 6-9 months to complete this certification. The certification equips candidates with expertise in industrial experience, financial modeling, and presentation skills, making them highly sought after by top employers.

● Diploma in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS): International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), is rapidly becoming a benchmark for the accounting world. With global business operations expanding, the Diploma in IFRS is crucial for ensuring compliance with international accounting standards, making it invaluable for multinational corporations. Professionals are required to have relevant accounting experience and education to enroll in the Diploma in IFRS program.

● The Enrolled Agent certification: Awarded by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Enrolled Agent certification is considered to be the highest credential in the field of taxation. It authorizes individuals to practice before the IRS, representing their clients and advising on rights, privileges, and liabilities under laws and regulations administered by the IRS. Consisting of three exams, this certification can be completed within a period of 6-8 months. Individuals over the age of 18 with their Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) are eligible to take the Special Enrollment Exam (SEE). There are immense opportunities for EAs, as the demand for tax professionals is evergreen due to the increasing complexity of tax laws and regulations.

Countries facing workforce shortages are increasingly recognizing the importance of attracting skilled talent to drive economic growth and development. Certifications like CPA, CMA, EA, and the Diploma in IFRS not only prepare professionals for high-demand roles but also position them as desirable candidates for international mobility.

These certifications provide the knowledge and credibility needed to understand and navigate the complexities of global finance, making certified professionals preferred choices for leading multinational companies like PwC, Deloitte, KPMG, Ernst and Young, Grant Thornton, and more. Holding these certifications represents a commitment to one’s profession and serves as a passport to participating in a dynamic, globally connected marketplace. As we look towards a future where borders are less of a barrier to career advancement, being well-prepared with internationally recognized credentials is crucial to accessing vast global career paths.”

(The author is the co-founder of Simandhar Education)