CA Foundation: Self-Study vs Coaching – What Should You Choose?

Preparing for CA Foundation is one of the most important steps in your journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant. Many students often face this big question: “Should I prepare through self-study or should I join a coaching institute?”

At RMS Commerce and CA Coaching, Chandigarh, we truly believe that both approaches can work—but which one is right for you depends on your personality, discipline, and the kind of support you have around you. Let’s understand both sides in detail.

Can You Clear CA Foundation with Self-Study?

Of course, you can. It would be a lie to say otherwise. If your concepts from Class 11th and 12th Commerce are strong, and you are a disciplined and self-motivated learner, self-study is definitely possible. The ICAI modules provide all the required content, and there are countless YouTube videos where expert faculty explain various topics.

But here’s the catch:

• Watching YouTube videos can sometimes give you a false sense of learning. You spend time scrolling to find the “perfect” video, then watch the faculty explain the topic—but simply watching doesn’t mean you’ve understood or retained it. Passive listening is very different from actively solving questions, writing answers, and practicing regularly.

• You also need someone—maybe a teacher or family member—to guide you when doubts arise, and to hold you accountable for writing tests on time. Without regular testing, even the brightest students can struggle to convert knowledge into exam-ready performance.
  

So yes, self-study can work—but only if you’re disciplined, self-aware, and have a strong support system to guide and monitor you.

Why Choose CA Coaching at RMS Chandigarh?

Now, let’s look at the other side—the benefits of joining a coaching institute like RMS Coaching by CA Anny Middha in Chandigarh.

1. Guidance from Expert Faculty: Our teachers focus on helping you truly understand concepts, not just cram formulas. This makes a huge difference when tackling ICAI’s tricky application-based questions.

2. Exam-Oriented Preparation: At RMS, we don’t just teach—we test. You’ll write multiple mock tests designed exactly like the ICAI exams, and these are then evaluated and discussed one-on-one with faculty. This gives you clear feedback on your strengths and weaknesses.

3. Complete Coverage of ICAI Material: From ICAI Study Material to RTPs (Revision Test Papers), MTPs (Mock Test Papers), and PYPs (Past Year Papers)—we ensure every single area is thoroughly covered so that nothing comes as a surprise in the exam hall.

4. Discipline and Accountability: Regular classes, test schedules, and mentor guidance help you stay consistent. Instead of postponing practice or “studying later,” you remain exam-focused from Day 1.

5. Personalized Mentorship: Students get individual feedback, doubt-solving sessions, and strategies tailored to their learning style. This personal touch is something self-study or YouTube videos cannot provide.

6. Flexible Learning Modes: Whether you prefer offline classes at RMS Chandigarh, live online interactive sessions, or recorded lectures with test series and doubt-solving support, you’ll always have the right balance of guidance, practice, and flexibility.
   

Final Thoughts

Both self-study and coaching can lead to success in CA Foundation. But while self-study demands a very high level of discipline, consistency, and external support, coaching provides structure, accountability, expert guidance, and regular testing, which often makes the real difference in results.

At RMS Coaching, Chandigarh, our goal is not just to help you clear CA Foundation in the first attempt, but also to build a strong base for CA Intermediate and beyond.

If you’re looking for the best CA Coaching in Chandigarh, and want the right balance of concept clarity, practice, and mentorship, RMS is here to guide you through every step of your CA journey. Still unsure about your preparation path? Call at +91-9988056377 for personal guidance or share your questions in the comments.