Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (BAF) is a 3-year undergraduate level program that combines fundamental concepts of accounting with core aspects of financial management, taxation and audit practices. Students learn about bookkeeping and cost accounting, as well as corporate finance and financial markets while also participating in practical workshops and case studies.
Admission is based on your 10+2 aggregate marks or college entrance test marks as well as a personal interview to ascertain your number, aptitude and communication skills. Reputable institutions, such as St. Xavier's College, South Indian Children's Education Society, Vedanta College, Don Bosco College, SGKM College of Arts, and Science and Commerce, have developed curriculums that meet industry needs, along with seasoned faculty and full placement assistance. The average course fee is INR 1,00,000 - 3,00,000.
With the essential skills learned above, BAF graduates pursue employment as junior accountants, tax associates or trainee financial analysts. The sound operation of India's corporate sector and financial services industry means that there continues to be a steady demand for skilled finance professionals. They can earn an average salary of INR 3 - 8 LPA.
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BAF Key Highlights
The key highlights to the Bachelor of Accounting & Finance (BAF) are given below:
What is a BAF course?
BAF is an undergraduate programme that combines theoretical accounting disciplines, financial, management and cost accounting with practical finance subjects on investment analysis, risk management and banking. There are also lab sessions and workshops which develop skills in Tally ERP, advanced Excel and GST/TDS calculations.
Each semester has a case study, group project and an end-term portfolio project, and the final year project is a research project on a real-world financial topic and is supervised by faculty.
Why Study BAF?
With swift changes in the state of finance, organizations are seeking professionals with the ability to contribute directly to accounting, taxation and financial analysis right out of university with little ramp up time needed. The BAF programme (Bachelor of Accounting & Finance) has been developed to address the gaps in finance education and practice and provide you with practical experience in accounting software, tax compliance and investment analysis so that you graduate fully job-ready within three years.
- Career Preparation: You will have hands-on experience and expertise in accounting software, tax and accounting compliance and financial modelling.
- Industry Relevance: Curriculum has been co-designed and developed in collaboration with Big 4 firms and banks and is relevant to emerging trends within the financial services sector.
- Broad Career Spectrum: You will qualify for careers in accounting, auditing, banking, taxation, investment and corporate finance.
- Professional Pathways: Obtain a seamless transition to pursue CA, CMA, CFA or MBA studies.
Who should study BAF?
Students interested in building strong careers in accounting, finance, banking, or auditing, who want both theoretical and practical training. The ideal candidates for BAF course are:
Commerce stream students who want specialized knowledge in accounting and finance.
- Learners who are strong in mathematics and analytical reasoning, and who wish to develop decision-making and problem-solving skills valued in business.
- Aspirants want diverse career options in both the public and private sectors, including roles in banks, financial institutions, businesses, and financial consulting.
- Those looking for an undergraduate alternative to a CA (Chartered Accountancy), or who may not want to pursue CA but still want an accounting-focused degree
BAF Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Bachelor of Accounting and Finance (BAF) program are generally as follows:
- Candidates must have completed their higher secondary education (Class 12 or equivalent).
- A minimum aggregate of 45-50% is usually required, which may vary for different categories of applicants.
- Both commerce and non-commerce students may be eligible to apply, though some institutions may prefer or require a commerce background.
- Admission can be based on merit or require candidates to clear an entrance exam, depending on the institution’s process.
- Some colleges might require specific subjects, such as mathematics, economics, or accountancy, to have been studied in Class 12.
BAF Best Colleges in India
In India we have various types of institutions for BAF. These colleges lead in education.
Also read about B.Com Hons in Accounting and Finance
BAF Admission Process 2025
The admission process for all the institutes is similar. For reference, the steps to enroll in the BAF course at South Indian Children’s Education Society is given below:
Step 1: Online Registration: Visit the Society’s admission portal during the University-published open window, select the course and fill out the online registration form.
Step 2: Verification of Online Application: The admissions office will review all the online applications for completeness and verify that they are complete.
Step 3: Merit List & Seat Allotment: Admission will provide seats in strict accordance with 10+2 merit as per the rules of the University of Mumbai. You can check the provisional list at the notice board or the portal for your name.
Step 4: Fee Payment & Confirmation: The fee is payable prior to the last date to secure your admission.
Step 5: Important points: The Principal can amend regulations from time to time based on updated guidance from the University. Refusal of admission can be regulated if found contrary to the discipline and decorum of the college environment. It is a requirement that you enter both your mobile phone number and that of a parent/guardian on the admission form.
Step 6: Admission Counseling: You can approach the Admission Counseling Cell on campus for support at any time during the admission process.
Required Documents:
- 10+2 mark sheet & passing certificate
- School/college leaving certificate
- Caste/category certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs (4)
BAF Syllabus
The BAF syllabus at St. Xavier's College (Mumbai) is displayed below.
Students can also pursue BBA Finance and Accounts
BAF Job Opportunities in India
BAF graduates are in high demand in India's rapidly changing finance sector and have acquired practical experience in tax compliance, financial analysis, and accounting software. They readily move into positions in corporate accounting, audit, tax consultancy, financial planning, and investment analysis in CA firms, banks, NBFCs, consulting firms, and corporate finance departments.
Click to read more about BBA Accounting
BAF FAQs
What's the difference between BAF and B.Com (Honours)?
B.Com (Hons) is general accounting, finance and business studies while BAF is concentrated on accounting, finance, taxation and audit practices with applied software training. BAF's industry relevant curriculum and workshops will fast-track you into finance positions. B.Com graduates may need additional certifications to be qualified for specialized finance careers.
Is an internship required, and how is it structured?
Yes! Most BAF programs provide a 4–6-week internship in Semester V with CA firms, corporate finance departments or banks. You'll work on genuine assignments such as preparing financial statements, filing tax returns or conducting audit checks under the guidance of professionals.
What software tools will I learn in BAF?
You will gain proficiency in accounting software like Tally ERP, QuickBooks for bookkeeping, advanced MS Excel for data analysis and GST filing platforms. Some institutes will introduce you to Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) modules and financial-modeling software commonly used in the industry.
Is it possible to do a CA or CMA professional qualification while also completing a BAF?
Yes - BAF includes modules in accounting and finance that are closely aligned with CA Foundation and CMA courses, and you can study for both at the same time. Most students will pass their Foundation exam in Year I or II of BAF.
Are there scholarships or financial assistance for the BAF course?
Yes - most colleges offer merit-based scholarships and need-based financial assistance schemes or government grants for students in high merit (above a certain cutoff) or reserved categories. Note: Be sure to check deadlines and requirements with your college’s financial aid office early in the admissions process.
Can I join B.Com after completing Year II of BAF?
Some universities allow lateral entry into the second year of B.Com (Hons) for BAF graduates with adequate academic performance, by way of an internal assessment or entrance exam. There is no consistent policy. Confirm with the college's admissions office.
Are there job opportunities abroad for BAF graduates?
Yes. One of the reasons you can secure a position abroad is due to the core accounting principles practiced throughout the world. The BAF program is very thorough in international accounting standards (IFRS) along with being well trained in acceptable finance practices. The added bonus would be to complete additional training in CPA, ACCA, etc, to ensure you remain employable over the globe.