CA is the course which creates a platform to settle in career at an early age of 21 years with wide knowledge, if one is disciplined enough.

Stages at CA include:

FOUNDATION-3months

INTER-9months

ARTICLES-3 years (after completion of 2.5yrs eligible to appear for CA FINALS)

FINALS(6months-Included in 3yrs period of articles-Will be completed by the time you complete 3yrs of articles)

CA can be completed in a minimal period of 4yrs.. If every stage of exam you appeared clears in first attempt.

If CA is started after Graduation 3yr period of graduation + 9month articles (for being eligible to appear for CA INTER without CA FOUNDATION) -3month coaching for CA Foundation i.e, a time period of 3.5yrs is to be added for completing the course(7.5 yrs to complete the course after 12th).

If you are at 12th std or below advisable to start the course directly but when you are at graduation level you can opt for indirect scheme of entry to the course.

It is logical to question that if the Graduation is skipped one might miss the knowledge & certification, but the subject dealt in Graduation (especially in commerce degrees) is taught in CA FOUNDATION itself hence you don't miss any knowledge. For certificate ICAI has entered MoUs with universities like IGNOU where a CA INTER qualified student is eligible to avail exemption in certain papers and once qualified in other papers you are awarded with a Bachelor's degree. Here you will be writing exam only once instead of three years like the regular course, which again saves your time.

In my opinion practical work gives much experience than theoretical knowledge. Instead of spending 3yrs as a student in graduation, you can spend such time to work as a CA and gain practical work experience.

Taking TIME factor(which is most important) into consideration.. It is advisable to grab every oppurtinity that helps us to complete the course ASAP.