How to Become an Accountant in Sri Lanka (Complete Guide)
Introduction
Are you good with numbers and like keeping things organized? Do you enjoy working with money and want a stable, respected job? If yes, then accounting might be the perfect career path for you.
In Sri Lanka, accountants are in high demand in almost every industry — from small shops to big banks. Whether you want to work in a private company, government, or even start your own practice, becoming an accountant is a smart choice.
In this guide, you'll learn:
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What qualifications you need
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Where to study
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What you will learn
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How much you can earn
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Job opportunities available in Sri Lanka
Higher Education Path
To become a qualified accountant in Sri Lanka, you need to follow one of these main education paths:
1. A/L Qualification (Commerce Stream)
First, you should complete your Advanced Level (A/L) exams, preferably in the Commerce stream (subjects like Accounting, Business Studies, Economics).
If you're from another stream (Arts/Science), don’t worry — you can still study accounting courses, but having a commerce background will help.
2. Professional Accounting Qualifications
After A/Ls, choose one of the following professional qualifications to become a certified accountant:
(i) Chartered Accountancy – CA Sri Lanka
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Most respected accounting qualification in Sri Lanka.
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You can join after A/Ls or after a degree.
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You must complete 3 levels: Business Level, Corporate Level, and Strategic Level, along with practical training.
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Duration: 3–5 years.
Institute: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka)
(ii) ACCA – Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (UK)
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An international accounting qualification recognized in Sri Lanka and around the world.
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You can study full-time or part-time.
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Covers financial reporting, audit, taxation, and more.
Institute: ACCA Sri Lanka
(iii) CMA – Certified Management Accountants of Sri Lanka
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Focuses more on management accounting (planning, budgeting, decision making).
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Popular for those who want to work in business strategy or management roles.
Institute: CMA Sri Lanka
(iv) AAT – Association of Accounting Technicians
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Great for beginners or students who want to enter the field quickly.
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You can become an Accounting Technician and later move to CA or ACCA.
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Suitable for those who want a job while continuing studies.
Institute: AAT Sri Lanka
(v) University Degree in Accounting / Finance
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You can also choose to get a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance from a university.
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After your degree, you can still do professional qualifications for higher positions.
Popular universities:
What You Will Learn
During your accounting studies, you will learn:
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How to prepare financial statements
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How to use accounting software like QuickBooks, SAP, Tally
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Basics of audit, taxation, and law
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Business math, economics, and statistics
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How to manage budgets and cash flow
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How to make reports for management decisions
You will also develop soft skills like:
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Communication
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Analytical thinking
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Attention to detail
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Problem solving
Job Opportunities in Sri Lanka
Once you are qualified, you can work in many places such as:
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Private companies
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Audit firms
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Banks & financial institutions
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Government departments
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NGOs
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Startups and small businesses
Popular job titles include:
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Assistant Accountant
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Financial Analyst
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Auditor
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Tax Consultant
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Budget Analyst
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Management Accountant
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Finance Manager
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Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – with experience
You can even work freelance or start your own accounting consulting firm.
Average Salary Range
The salary depends on your qualification, experience, and type of company. Here's a general idea:
| Level | Monthly Salary (LKR) |
|---|---|
| AAT / Entry Level | Rs. 40,000 – Rs. 70,000 |
| CA / ACCA Student (with training) | Rs. 50,000 – Rs. 90,000 |
| Qualified Accountant (3–5 years) | Rs. 100,000 – Rs. 200,000 |
| Senior Accountant / Manager | Rs. 200,000 – Rs. 400,000 |
| CFO / Finance Director | Rs. 400,000+ |
You can earn more if you work in a multinational company, audit firm, or go abroad.
Summary
If you want a stable, respected, and well-paying job, becoming an accountant is a great decision. Here's your quick path:
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Do A/Ls – preferably Commerce stream.
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Choose a professional accounting qualification (CA, ACCA, CMA, AAT) or a university degree.
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Gain practical training and internship experience.
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Get a job, build your experience, and keep learning.
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Climb the ladder — from junior accountant to CFO!
Final Words
Becoming an accountant in Sri Lanka takes time and effort — but it's 100% worth it. With the right qualification and mindset, you can build a strong, successful career in the world of finance.
If you're serious, start today. Choose a course, set your goal, and work step by step.
Your future as a professional accountant begins with one decision. Make it today.