Securing the fifth rank in a national examination with a pass rate of just 13.44% is no ordinary feat. Yet, 22-year-old Amrath Haris from Kerala has achieved just that, excelling in the CA Final Examination conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). With an impressive score of 484 out of 600, she clinched the fifth position in the country and emerged as the top performer from Kerala.

For Amrath, who previously secured the 16th rank in the CA Intermediate Examination in 2021, this latest accomplishment is another milestone in her continuing journey of academic success.

A career decided early
Amrath grew up in Sharjah with her parents, Haris Faizal from Thiruvannur, Kozhikode, and Sheeba from Manakkad, Thiruvananthapuram. Her father works as an accounts manager, while her sister Amjatha and brother-in-law Taufeeq are both qualified Chartered Accountants (CAs). Inspired by their career paths, Amrath decided in Class 10 that she too would pursue the CA qualification.

Balancing a degree with CA
After completing her Plus Two in March 2020, Amrath cleared the CA Foundation exam in November that year and the Intermediate exam in December 2021. While undergoing the rigorous three-year articleship (practical training), she also pursued a B.Com degree through Indira Gandhi National Open University.

To prepare for the final hurdle, Amrath took a six-month break from her articleship to focus entirely on her studies. The presence of two Chartered Accountants at home proved invaluable, as she received timely guidance and support throughout her preparation.

A bold move for the final exam
The CA Final Examination is divided into two groups of different subjects, and candidates must clear all subjects within a group to pass the group. Most aspirants attempt one group at a time to minimise risk. However, Amrath chose to take the road less travelled, attempting both groups simultaneously. It was also a decision required to qualify for a rank.

Reflecting on her journey, she explains that tackling both groups together can make the open-book examination more manageable, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

A love for literature
Despite her demanding schedule, Amrath finds solace in literature. Having pursued her education in Sharjah, she remains an avid reader with a deep appreciation for authors like Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, M Mukundan, and Benyamin.