The Chartered Accountancy as profession in India started developing in 1949 after the establishment of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The institute was established under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949.

The ICAI is recognized as licensing and examining body by the Government of India for conduct of CA programme and examination and regularization of CA as a profession in the country.

A course in Chartered Accountancy involves both theoretical knowledge as well as practical training. CA training programme leverage the learner with the knowledge, ability and skills to make them successful Chartered Accountancy professional.

Students who successfully complete their CA training programme become eligible to apply for institute membership and entitle him/her to use the professional description of "Chartered Accountant". Students can also take up jobs that require knowledge of chartered accountant.

The ICAI has introduced the Foundation Course in 1992. A candidate can enroll for this course with a minimum eligibility of 10+2 or equivalent. After passing Foundation Course, candidates can get admission in PCC - without a degree, however, the candidate who has a graduate degree do not require doing foundation course.