What are the prerequisites for a newcomer to get SAP FICO Job?

Lets start with the usual one.

1. Do I require a Finance Degree to apply for SAP FICO job ?

NO. I know few Non-Financial background guys doing great in SAP FICO world and have seen CA/MBA finance guys struggling to get it cause they just wont learn.

It is more EASY if you are a Finance Graduate/Post Graduate/CA/MBA Finance etc to start syncing in the concepts easily. That is the only differentiation from a degree perspective. How fast can you understand Debit-Credit , Balance Sheet/ P&L ? Of course the Finance degree guys have an edge . They studied those topics for 3/6 years vs a Non-Finance degree guy.

2. Can I join SAP FICO fresh out of college after my Graduation/Post Graduation ?

Yes you can. Many services companies like TCS, Infosys etc have always been recruiting fresh CA’s/MBA’s from colleges .They train them in SAP FICO  for 6-8 weeks and then put them on work in Projects as Shadow resources. That is the best way to get work and make them learn.

3. Does experience matter to get a good SAP FICO Job ?

Totally . You should hang on to your first JOB for a minimum of 3 years to at least learn something good and start looking out for the next switch. 1-2 years of experience is too low to make a Job switch as per my understanding. Of course , the better experience you have the better compensation can you demand while making a switch.

4. Can I fake my years struggling for JOB and show as experience ? ( Yeah ..I get such questions  :) )

Well , personally I am totally against this foolishness . I take a lot of interviews sometimes and my primary concern in the first few minutes is to just identify fake experience guys and close the session. Truth is , people do it  and in fact many of them. Its about your own set of ethics. You follow them or you don’t. Sometimes not getting a Job definitely sends your Ethics book out of the window. Still , I hate this practice and would really like to help people to try genuinely and learn and get jobs instead of faking experience on your resume.

More later…

Any specific questions you want me to address ? Please use the comment box below.

184 thoughts on “What are the prerequisites for a newcomer to get SAP FICO Job?

  1. What exactly you look for in a candidate, in case the candidate is fake and does good in an interview whether he will be in or out?

    • What exactly do we look in a candidate ?
      ANSWER : That depends on what kind of requirement are we looking to fill up.

      In case the candidate is fake and does good in an interview whether he will be in or out?
      ANSWER : Interesting questions :) . Well If he is good and good enough to fool the interviewer that his experience is not fake that there is good chance of him getting selected. If the Interviewer concludes that he is indeed fake, I suppose there is there is hardly any chance of him being given a Green signal.

    • What exactly do we look in a candidate ?
      ANSWER : That depends on what kind of requirement are we looking to fill up.

      In case the candidate is fake and does good in an interview whether he will be in or out?

      ANSWER : Interesting questions :) . Well If he is good and good enough to fool the interviewer that his experience is not fake that there is good chance of him getting selected. If the Interviewer concludes that he is indeed fake, I suppose there is there is hardly any chance of him being given a Green signal.

      • Im a commerce graduate and have 7 years of experience in fields apart from finance and i’m at a manager position. Will SAP FICO will assist me establishing good options in finance domain without compromising on my current designation?

        • Hi Ricky,

          SAP FICO is a very good option for you. You are already quite well versed in finance domain and that is a big plus. Most of the large companies that are SAP implementation partners should be easily willing to take you and will definitely match your current salary level too. Just make sure you train good .

    • Tranining from Certified SAP institute guarrantes that you are getting the course that SAP suggests . That course is costly comparative to local institutes that might give about 70% of that knowledge in about 1/10 th of that price.
      You would have to search though :)

  2. i am a bcom graduate in first class + i have CA foundation from Institute of chartered Accountants of Pakistan am i eligible for SAP Fico

    • Hi Hussain,

      CA foundation is not a degree . That is just a level for your CA education. I know you have spend effort clearing CA foundation and so it is dear to you to quote that but any degree is not relevant until you complete it. How would it sound if someone says they have done Bcom for 1 year :) .
      So your CA foundation will not help.

      Bcom degree is relevant but with experience . Would be pretty tough to get break without experience .

  3. I am 36 yrs old.I ve done P Hd in finance, and working as a commerce lecturer from past 12 yrs. Do i need any practical experience of finance before entering in to SAP fico

    • Hi Prateek,

      Age does not matter. Your experience is in teaching but it will still be relevant as since you are a commerce lecturer.
      Please take a good course and start applying .

  4. I a MBA post gurduate in Finance but I I don’t know anything about SAP FICO so how can I get a job in Finance and where can i get knowledge of SAP FICO but I can’t invest money in books and tutions also……?????

    • I don’t know if you are experienced or not so cannot comment. Relevant experience is makes your chances better .

      Interesting ..you do not want to INVEST …but you still want good RETURNS. :)

  5. I am MBA in IT and now i am doing IT recruitment for US Staffing on SAP only.I want to join SAP course.so tell me proper way.

  6. Hi i have completed my MBA and i have 1 year of experience in finance job .Now i am planing to do SAP (FICO) .After completion of the course i would be a fresher in FICO , by using 1 year finance experience can i get job in FICO .What would be the starting pay for the SAP job for my profile.

    Thanks in advance.

    Regard
    Mamatha.

    • You should wait another couple of years and then think about this option. You are just 1 year in job ..why are you not thinking about being good at what you are doing ?
      Why is it that people who are pretty new at a job immediately think that there job is is not good enough and want to lookout.

      Think about this : Suppose you are very good at your current job and around 7-8 years experience. I suppose you would be earning good then . If you still think you do not like that situation then move out .

  7. Hi i have completed my MBA and ihave 1 year of experience in finance job .Now i am planing to do SAP (FICO) .After completion of the course i would be a fresher in FICO , byusing 1 year finance experience can i get job in FICO .What would be the starting pay for the SAP job for my profile.

    Thanks in advance.

    Regard
    Mamatha.

    • Hi Mamatha,

      There are slim chances of you getting into SAP FICO with just one year of post MBA experience. However , you should start learning now and surely you will be up to speed to apply and get a good one with 2-3 years work experience.

      – Admin

  8. Hai,
    I am a commerce graduate and i am working in a infrastructure development company from last 6 years on oracle ERP. Now i want to learn SAP and change my field can you please suggest which one i better for me

    • Hi Ramesh,

      You have good relevant experience. It would be better if you start simply with the module that you have more experience in in Oracle ERP. I assume it is Finance and controlling as you would not be on this site otherwise. Do some basic courses on SAP FICO to understand this better.

  9. Hi,
    I have completed my MBA with Marketing as Major and Finance as Minor in 2011. And I got a job offer during campus selections. So currently I am having 2+ yrs experience in Life Insurance(one of the top banks in India) division. I am looking for Career growth opportunities and planning to learn SAP. Could you please advise me whether it would be good decision or not? If yes, which module in SAP offers better opportunities? Thanks in Advance.. :)

    • Hi Nanda,

      The two options that I would suggest is either to go for SAP Sales and Distribution ( SAP -SD ) or SAP FICO. If you are not a Finance graduate and I assume you are not since you took Marketing as majors in MBA then I think SAP-SD is better option for you. Take decision on the basis of what you would want to do since both the stream are open due to your MBA degree.

      • I had opted for Marketing just that it seemed interesting to me at the time of joining MBA. I will just look out at the opportunities available and will decide. Thanks again..

        • Go through some SAP-SD and SAP-FICO overviews to understand what they are about. Then maybe choose what you find interesting. Opportunities are there in both options if you become good and learn quickly.

  10. Dear Sir/Madam

    I have done MBA in finance and have 1.5 yrs of exp. as an content analyst which is neither related to fin nor marketing but I ‘am very much interested in SAP FICO. I am eligible for it after 2 yrs of work exp.? If yes do I need to take SAP FICO certificate from authorized institute or simply having good knowledge in SAP FICO from some local training inst. is enough? Your valuable suggestion will help me in building my career.

    • Hi Vivek,

      The question of being eligible does not come as there is no predefined criteria. Since your work experience is not relevant it does not matter if you are 2 years or less . You will still be considered a Finance MBA with 2 years of Non-relevant work experience. I would say do not worry about the experience but just work hard on getting the knowledge.
      I would really not want anyone to waste money on Authorised institutes as they charge too much and the additional benefit compared to a local institute is not that much. Go for a good local institute and work hard on getting the knowledge which gives you confidence to start applying for the job.

      Good Luck

      • Thanks for the feedback.
        But for applying a job in SAP they require min 2 yrs of work exp. as I read in job posts? 1 more question without a valid certificate how would I apply for SAP jobs?If i get good knowledge in SAP what should I mention in my resume about SAP FI-CO? please help..

        • Minimum eligibility criteria is just what the recruiter might be looking for to avoid freshers applying for the job. There no fixed rule about being minimum 2 years.
          Each job posting can have the requirements according to the recruiter.

          When you say “Valid Certificate” I assume you are talking about SAP FICO Certification certificate. That is NOT a “prerequisite” at all , it is just a “desirable” attribute.
          You simply mention in your resume that you have got trained in SAP FICO and have knowledge of A,B C …topics .

  11. Dear Sir/Madam,

    i am working as accounts manager and have a total experience of 12 years. recently i have completed my MBA in finance. i want to know how SAP FI course will help me to improve my career. here BPCL and ATOS are the SAP authorized training providers, which one is best out of these two. how much is the scope of SAP FI in job market

    • Hi Sreekumar,

      For someone like you with relevant and abundant domain experience SAP FICO is very good step to enhance your career. Being an account manager you already know the business very well . All you need to know is the nitty-gritty of how to do or apply the same concepts in SAP FICO. I am pretty sure you will be very good once get a good training.
      I do not have information on how good or bad these institues are. I would suggest go to each one and talk to existing or previous students who can always provide the true picture of what they quality they teach.

      Complete the training and you will easily get the break into SAP FICO for sure. Let me know if you have any other questions.

      -Admin

  12. I am 40 and have 15+ years of experience in finance and have little knowledge of FICO. What type of chances I have now in FICO or MM or SD.

    • Hi Pawan,

      Let me assure you that age really does not matter. What matters is your learning ability. You already have 15 yrs Exp in Finance domain and should be well versed in it. You can pick up a good institute and get tranined in SAP FICO . I would say you have almost 100% chances of getting into SAP FICO with that amount of Domain experience if you learn it pretty well.

  13. Namastay Madam you have given valuable information on SAP and a meaningful insight on the certification part also.It would really help so many people who are spending lot of money for the sake of SAP FICO Certification

  14. Hi,
    I have done my M.com and certified in SAP Fico…..I have experience in SAP Fico in Functional area of AP, AR, and GL for 2.5yrs. But the problem is Iam having 4 yrs gap since I got married and went to US with my hubby. Now I started searching Job in SAP fico and wanted to join as a fresher, train well and want to improve my skills. Can you suggest what step I need to take to get the Job early.

    • Hi Sunitha,

      Are you out of touch on your skill level ? What problem are you facing finding job ? You should ideally get selected for interviews because of your prior experience.

  15. Hi,
    I finished my b.com and i had to waste a year due to health issues. I am planning to study Cost Accountants. I have also planned to do my SAP FICO module along, to enhance my chances of getting into that field, and I hope to get placed in that field through ICWAI placements. Is this thought feasible or am i just living in my dreams?

    • Your are not dreaming. This is feasible. I kind of 100% agree of each point that you have thought about. Make sure you do learn SAP FICO good enough that any recruiter who has SAP in there system will think you as a great asset for their team.

  16. Hi,
    First of all, thanks to you for providing these valuable information to all SAP aspirants like us. I would seek advise on my career decision. I have some points to mention,

    1. I’ve done MBA (finance), now working in a pvt bank for last 3 and half yrs as a NRI relationship manager. I have knowledge in banking, forex, NRI domain and I work in FINACLE (banking software of infosys).
    2. I dont have any accounting background. So dont have any domain knowledge or hands on practises in accounting.

    Now I want to do the SAP from a local well known institute in Kolkata.

    Kindly advise whether taking SAP at this point time of my career will be beneficial for me at all as this will be a complete switch from retail banking to IT.
    If yes, then which module of SAP would be the best fitted for me.

    Your help in this regard is highly appreciated.

    Rgds,

    Indrabhan

    • Hi Indrabhan,

      Moving to SAP FICO will be a complete switch your current work profile. SAP CORE Banking solution that might be able to utilize any of your current understanding is something you can move into but only later point of your SAP FICO career. For now, it will mainly be accounting Debit/Credits .

      If you do decide to switch , FICO is your best bet in SAP as your qualification helps in that.

      Let me know if your have any questions

      -Admin

      • Hi,
        Many thanks for the reply. However I have some questions, and probably I will always have. :-)
        1. I am 29 now, do you think its good decision (or suicidal !) right now to move in to SAP FICO with knowledge in banking domain only.
        2. I have heard that its very tough for a SAP FICO fresher to get the first break. How true is this ? Do company hire SAP FICO fresher ?
        3. I have financial constarints ! So if I gain knowledge from a local institute, will it be okay ?

        • 1. Don’t leave our current job and try finding the job in the new domain. Then it will not be suicidal but simply a smart move. :)

          2. We almost never hire SAP FICO freshers who have no work experience. You still have 3 years and if you can prove in interview that you are good and have learnt it well then you can be taken. Tough word, my friend is only in the dictionary of the week.

          3. Not only ok , it makes logical sense. If the returns are almost same that would you bet 25K or 2.5L ? :)

  17. Hi,
    I have done B.Tech and currently working in MNC company as a java developer from past 2.6 years, I planning to switch to sap fico side as i am interested in working sap fico. Am i eligable for working in sap fico and how about the chances of getting job in sap fico?

    • Hi Reddy,

      Java development is a very good work stream if you are good in it. In fact it still is the biggest JOB market in IT industry. I am surprised someone advised you about SAP FICO. There is no logic in moving out of career path and move to an entirely different one. You would find it far more difficult to get concepts and without any Finance understanding.

      Please understand that trying to jump to career path just because it is considered “HOT” by many does not mean it is good for all. Things that are “HOT” can sometime burn us as well.

      Please take my advice , avoid wasting time trying for SAP FICO and do well in your current career path.

      -Admin

  18. hi sir / mam,
    i have completed my B com nearly a 5yrs back.since 5 yrs i was working as a receptionist in pvt sector,am not happy the way my career has grown up,so now can i eligible to do a SAP course, which module i have to take? pls refer me some good institution in Bangalore,

    kind regards.

  19. I have done BE in IT 2008 passout and MBA Finance 2011 passout.I am currently working with my father in trading business.I wanted to do SAP FICO and get a job in IT company.
    I do not have any experience. I am a fresher.Should I do SAP FICO.Will the 2 year gap affect placement.
    Thank You.

    • Darshan ,

      Please do not consider 2 years as a GAP . You are a MBA with 2 years of work experience even if the work was at your own business. Take the course , learn well and start applying.

  20. hii ,
    i have done my graduation from delhi university(distance) , currently in my last year of pgdmb finance( symboisis centre of distance learning), and have cleared CA inter with 3.5yrs of article ship training. i am planning to do SAP Fi module. will it help me getting a job?? as i am totally a fresher in this feild.
    Your help in this regard is highly appreciated.

    Rgds,

    abhinav

    • Abhinav,

      If you are on CA career path then just do FOCUS on it. You should not be doing any other course if you serious about CA.
      This course will not help your case of distance Graduation , distance Post graduation and an uncleared CA .
      You have invested time and money for CA then just invest some more effort and clear it.

  21. Hi sir,

    I am from the sales & marketing division, i have an experience of 7 years in this field, i want know that which course is suitable for me. my friends are doing SAP FICO. Kinldy help……

  22. hi
    I am nithin. I am working as a financial analyst. i have completed my mba finance and B.com also, now i am thinking of studying SAP. When i was going through companies that offers FICO module of SAP in my city, ther is a company in my city who are providing SAP but they are not giving certification. and i dont have the budget to study the sap certification by paying full amount. can i opt for tht SAP Centre which offeres SAP FICO Module without certification ? that costs around 50000 rupees. Now i have 2 year work experience also. is ther any other module which is better than SAP
    Kindly Help!!!

    • Hi Nithin,

      SAP Certification is costly but it sometimes gives you an edge over other freshers. If I have 10 resumes to select I might make my life easy and pick the guys who are SAP Certified first to see if they are any good.

      That said, certification is still very costly . You would spend 5 times more compared to what you quoted above. So you are the best judge of how much money you want to spend .

      This is the correct module you should be going for as per your Work exp and degree.

  23. Hi,

    Am really glad to find an active forum like this one on SAP..

    I am a Bcom Graduate(with spcl in Accounts & Finance) pass year 2008. I have total 4 & half years of experience from two organisations. They were not core finance related process but involves major elements of accounting. I plan to do SAP in FI module now. Although I am told that I am eligible to pursue the same I do have few apprehensions when I think about getting the first break into the SAP job market.My questions if you could kindly advise on ..:
    1) What does the prospective employer expect from the applicant’s past employment especially when the applicant doesn’t have SAP related experience.
    2)Does it really matter if the applicant is not an MBA or doesn’t hold any post graduation degree, if he is well verse with the accounts & finance related business functions.
    I am very keen to pursue this but the above quetions does put a break on my thoughts….;)
    Could you please kindly let me know your views on the situation & if I should go for the certification.

    Eagerly looking forward to your comments..

    Many Thanks..
    Nikhil

    • Hi Nikhil,

      1 – Employers look for RELEVANT experience . In case of SAP FICO that would be some kind of Accounting / Audit work . That does not necessarily have to do it on SAP itself. If you worked on Oracle or some other Accounting software that should still be considered relevant work exp. Work in Financial Markets ( Bank / Brokerage /MF ) might not be that relevant though.

      2 – It does not matter if you are CA /ICWA / MBA-Finance / Bcom . You need Finance degree since that provides the recruiter confidence that you might easily understand things better that come your way. Non-Finance graduates /post graduates are not ruled out but I would say they have slim chances of making into SAP FICO .

      Let me know if you have any other queries.

  24. Hi iam Bhanu Prakash I have done my MBA (finance ) iam having 2 years of work experence in Mutual Fund Indutry i want statrt my career as a SAP FICO consultant which is better for me SAP FSCM OR SAP FICO
    please help me to get a better future

    • FSCM would be a next level for SAP FICO Bhanu. I do not think you can start right into SAP- FSCM . You got to know the basics in SAP -FICO first.

  25. Hi Sir, have experience in admin and Operations In hospital Sector as 6+ Yrs, Am Graduate In B.Com ( Distance ) . fed Up With service sector planing to move SAP FICO Job m doing course in a institute. I Have Confidence , But Sir Industry is expecting only Exp People,
    Will industry mark distance education and my domain, Plz Suggest.
    I Dont want to accept loosing n go back to the same.
    I Want to fit in what am dreaming about will i get career or should i quit.

    • Recruiters won’t care about your distance education if you are good in the interview. That is only when the company itself does not have some 60/70% marks in regular course policy.

      You have already jumped onto the train, have taken some course and you are looking for next opportunity . Why do you worry about questions that you should have thought before taking the plunge ? Just keep applying and keep practicing . Give you best shot .

      I hope you haven’t left your current job. I would not advise anyone to leave their current jobs until they get their break in SAP FICO.

  26. Hi,
    I have completed my MCA . So currently I am having 2+ yrs Software Developer experience in Business Intelligence domain . I am looking for Career growth opportunities and planning to learn SAP. Could you please advise me whether it would be good decision or not? If yes, which module in SAP offers better opportunities? Thanks in Advance..

  27. Hiii every one …. I had done my sap in fico presently im searching for job some one says there is no vacancies for fico freshers, & some says banglore is better for fico job, chennai is better like that im totally get confused from that words, pls help me where to go & at which place the job market is good?

    • Hi Srinivas,

      Job market does not become good or bad based on location. If there is an uptrend in SAP jobs , it will be whether it is Chennai or Bangalore. Obviously you will have more number of job opening in place where more number of recruiters are . So Bangalore would be the place as per my knowledge . Chennai is still overnight journey if something comes up there :) . I hope you have relevant exp while you are hunting for job in SAP FICO. . -Good Luck.

  28. Hello Sir,

    I am a BBA Graduate and have 4 years of work experience in Finance sector. I would like to learn SAP FICO and wish to do a career in it as I am from finance background.
    Sir, I would like to know which is the best Training Institute for learning this course.Please could you provide me with some best options of Institutes so that I can go further with the learning process.

    Thanks in advance

    • Hi Tanvi,

      Right now, I have no idea of good local institutes. You would have to take this evaluation effort on your end :) .

  29. hi.. i am working in stock broking industry and having 7 years of experienc,,will fico be helful for me ..and what are the institute that are offering this courses..i have seen that many authorised institute have high fees so is it worth spending that amount of money..otherwise please suggest me any other institute

    • Hi Anil,

      If you current job and career does not help you much and you have the required qualifications then this course might help you. I have put together list of few institutes that offer the courses and will publish them soon.

  30. Hi Himanshu,
    An Economics degree is very different VS. a Finance degree to get a SAP FICO job?

    Thanks in Advance.

  31. Himanshu Vats
    I am a BBA gradute completed in the year 2009 and working on Accounts receiveable (Health care company) from last 3 years.Would like to know if i can go for SAP FICO.

  32. Hello Himanshu

    i have 2 years of experience in cognizant ( 1 year in sap bw and 1 year .net ) .then i did my masters in germany . now i have a permanent job in germany in SAP BW profile ,working since one year now ,but i want to switch to finance, lot of people have told me that i need a proper backgroud for getting into sap finance .either do level 1 CFA or Diploma in Finance .

    could you please suggest what is the right track to get in to SAP FICO . i wanted to work in the lines of SAP FI and BW togethar

    regards
    Mahesh

    • Hi Mahesh,

      SAP BW too have pretty good career path and I am surprised you are thinking of moving to SAP FICO. As a SAP FICO consultant, I work almost everyday with SAP BW folks and they are almost as valuable as me or any other SAP FICO consultant. To me it looks like you are doubting just because you have less work exp in BW. Trust me my friend 5-6 yrs exp SAP -BW consultants take up almost the same package as SAP-FICO. My advise would be to stick to your domain and learn more on where you are.

  33. Hi ,

    I have done PGDM(Finance & IB) and currently working in HDFCLife and have total exp is 2.5 years. Will this SAP FI course will help me to grow fast and switch to IT industury since I don’t have any SAP background? Is job exist for my level exp in SAP FI?

    • Hi Manish,

      You HDFCLife experience is not much relevant to SAP consultancy and hence you would be considered a fresher. Your PGDM ( Finance & IB) d give you at least a beginning to get started. If you are fine with moving as fresher in SAP consultancy then you can take up the FICO course and try your luck.

  34. Hello…… I ve completed MBA in finance and im a Fresher so looking forward to do Sap Fico without any experience…..

  35. Hi Himanshu,

    Really glad to have come across this forum wherein you have been actively answering everyone’s query…Hope you will help me overcome my apprehensions regarding post SAP in Finance.

    I am a Bcom Graduate with specialization in Accounts & finance (pass year 2008). I have total 4.5 years of work experience(non SAP) Last two years were with the accounting team of a UK based insurance broking company.

    Presently I am into SAP training FI module & hopefully will get certified by next month.

    However, just wondered if you have any advice for me once i’m certified… ie for searching & getting a job. Also, since I am a fresher in SAP, could you please let me know in which salary bracket i may expect myself to be in.. I realise it sounds a bit stupid question….but little curious to know your views on what should I expect, so that I can go with same frame of mind knowing what to expect out of the interview….

    Eagerly looking forward to your reply..

    Best Regards,

    Nikhil

    • Hi Himanshu,

      My Sincere Apologies for the last query.

      I do notice that you had kindly replied to me on August 18, 2013 at 6:20 am to one of my previous post. For some reason I was not able to see either your comments or my own query on this page when I had last checked I felt may be it was deleted during moderation.I didnt receive any notification either..

      Nevertheless, I highly appreciate your valuable comments, which is nothing but a “confidence booster” for me :)
      The experience I have is of the people-soft module of Oracle in which I was into providing non technical support for Project costing & billing & thereafter I was with the accounts team of an Insurance Broking company handling reconciliation of ledger balances.

      As I mentioned in last post , I expect to clear certification for FI-AA module by next month. And I’m being told that the interview can be a headache if not prepared well before..;)

      Could you please let me know if you have any specific suggestion regarding SAP interviews & also if you could shed some light on the salary expectation as a fresher then I would be highly obliged……

      Many Thanks,

      Nikhil

      • Hi Nikhil,

        I don’t know of any FI-AA only certification. Help me point to the certification if any such exists. Salary expectation in India would be around 3LPA for SAP FICO fresher. I would love to take feedback from folks who know this is incorrect and something different is being offered now. Interview is a headache if you don’t know the concepts . It is a breeze otherwise. It simply is a case of how well you prepare. If you failed to prepare then prepare to fail. To reiterate , INTERVIEWS ARE NOT TOUGH IF YOU KNOW THE CONCEPTS. – Best of Luck Nikhil

        • Hi Himanshu,

          Many Thanks for your kind reply…

          By FI AA I meant FI & Asset Accounting.. Apparently, SAP have structured the course material on these two topics this time, & keeping CO as a separate module….

          Further, I cant agree any less with your views on self preparation…… & I would take your words very very seriously in doing my best & preparing well for the interview right from now….:-)

          & fresher salary which you mentioned… seems ok to me…… it’ll feel like i’m beginning from just below of where i left before venturing into SAP …;-)…. but atleast i’ll begin as a Junior consultant…:-D

          Once again… my special Thanks to you for answering everyone’s query in the best possible manner…… helping others….Kudos

  36. Hello Himanshu

    Iam a commerce graduate with 10yrs of experience in Accounting and Auditing, also I have worked as as end user in SAP for Accounts Payable process.Currently Iam planning to get trained in SAP FICO from a local training institute (charging arnd 15k for 2 months) for better career prospects.
    How is the future job prospect for my profile i.e.Accounting exp+FICO?
    Is it a right decision to join FICO training? Will the Companies consider my accounting+FICO exp?
    Thanks in advance….

    • Hi Naveeen,

      Your profile suits very well. Job prospects are good for a good work exp and profile just like yours. Take up the training , work hard on learning and not cramming. I will soon have a Resume section and would love to have good Jr SAP FICO resume like yours to be shown for recruiters.

  37. Hi Himanshu,
    I have 7 years of experience in Mutual Fund Industry in US and currently enrolled in Master of Financial Economics (MFE) in US which is based on the curriculum of CFA. I would complete the MFE program next February (2014). Also I have an associate degree in IT (1 year, C, JAVA, SQL, Basic Networking). I have experience in db/cr and Financial statements in Mutual Fund Industry which is little different from the mainstream Finance/Accounting. I am planning to move into SAP FICO. Would my experience count and what is my prospect of landing a job in SAP FICO without any SAP experience in US or Europe. Thanks!

    • Hi Monica,

      I would usually recommend sticking to the same domain until you really are uncomfortable in you current work. 7 yrs in MF industry and MFE does not give any relevant exp for ERP. Your associate IT degree too is not much help to SAP FICO work . So your experience may/maynot count based of judgement of the recruiter . US market is different from India and has more number of short term contracting opportunities where you can start pitching in as Jr SAP FICO consultant after your training an then gain more relevant work exp.

  38. Hi sir,
    I have done B.Com(Hons) Delhi university and MBA Finance Pune University. I have more than 8 years of experience in Stock broking industry. I am planning to do SAP FICO/FSCM/TRM….Will it be a good idea now to pursue the course. If yes, then will I get entry level job in FICO?
    What is the industry pay package for my kind of candidate approx?

    Thanks & Regards,
    Manish Atri

    • Hi Manish,

      You already have 8 years post MBA work ex. I would not recommend moving to different domain until you really want to move out. You would nearly be a fresher a SAP FICO since the stock broking exp does not help out neither in Accounting for ERP nor in Software ITLC process. Pay package usually is less than 3LPA. Only relevant work exp guys get to start at higher levels.

  39. Hi Himanshu,
    I have around 12 years of software development experience on Microsoft platform specialy in systems integration. I did my B.COM then Masters in Computer Sciences.
    Based on my financial accounting knowledge i studied in B.COM almost 15yrs ago, I am thinking to switch to SAP FICO. Is that realistic aproach to brush up my finance concepts and switch to technicaly different platform?

    • Hi Spica,

      I think you already know my answer. This is definitely not a realistic approach . Do you really remember things you learnt 15 years ago if you have not looked at them after you completed your graduation ?
      Why would you want to discard your 12 years of Work exp and try to move into another domain that would consider you almost a fresher. I think SAP FICO is simply a NO GO for you. You should just stick to focus on maybe one specialization in your current field and work on it.

      • Himanshu, Thanks for your time.
        Here is some more detail why i thought to switch to SAP.
        From last 8 years i am doing horizontal consulting, means i never stick with one businsess domain. I do integration projects using MS BizTalk and i used to take projects in any domain as long as BizTalk is being used(more of a technology oriented path). I want to move to SAP because (i think) it is more domain oriented and have better scope in IT market.
        Why SAP FICO, because i thought to brush up my financial accounting concepts and break into SAP.
        Do you think i should move into any SAP module at this point of time? If yes then which module?
        I have done one SAP CRM integration using BizTalk, so i have good idea of order processing. Do you think SAP CRM i should do? OR no SAP at all?

        Thanks again!

        • Hi Spica,

          I find that you are more of a Biztalk expert with consulting exp in all domain. This is pretty good ..why do feel the need to go in one specific domain ? I think Scope is good in Biztalk as well . Scope is a variable of how good your are in that field. An expert in SAP FICO or Biztalk will have scope everywhere and a novice will find both pretty difficult in scope terms.
          Hence I would more out if I was in your shoes but would have started focussing on sharpening my skills. Integration is a big market.

    • I assume you mean tenure of “training” of SAP FICO. Usually that is about 1 to 2 months. Depends on how the institute have structured there course topics.

  40. Hi
    I am a CA & CS and currently looking for a good job.
    Since i do not have any exposure to SAP/ERP i plan 2 get training and work as a SAP FICO consultant.
    will SAP FICO benefit me in my career growth and offer me a good package while doing the same?
    Plz reply

    • Hi Sivanath,

      I find Indeed.co.in as good source of job openings for SAP FICO. I would recommend you regularly checking that and also you would want to float your resume to some Consultants who can help find contracting job initially.

  41. Hello sir o have done b.com(h) and currently in the first year of mba from jamia millia islamia and will more likely to opt for finance as I have good knowledge og accounts… So I wold like to know if I can go for sap fico or not without any work exp???

  42. Hi Himanshu,
    I was reading all the Q&A from last 1 hr and glad to know that I reached at right place to clear my confusion. I have done B.Com + MBA (Finance), post MBA; I have 2 yrs of experience in Investment Banking backoffice and about 2 yrs of exp in US Taxation field. Now I want to make my career in IT as SAP FICO consultant but confused whether I should go in this field after having 4rs of exp in Finance & Accounts. Also a bit tensed about the starting position & package I’ll be offered after getting the SAP Certification. Currently I am getting around 5 lac p.a  as a Senior Consultant in a MNC for US Taxation profile.  If not SAP FICO then my mind ask me to go for US CPA which will give my career a step head in the same field, but I am very much interested to go in IT. Could you please show me a path so that I can move my life ahead.

    • Hi Chetan,

      Late reply but still . You profile is good. Go for a good SAP FICO course. I am sure your get a job with almost similar pay level.

  43. Hi Himanshu,
    My name is Kratika Gupta,currently working with TCS  & having an experience of 3 years in Testing domain.Have done B.TECH(EC).I am looking for some better technology & so ended with SAP FICO coz its having a good scope but I am not having any financial background.Only I know about finance is Credit/Debit.
    My question is-Is it necessary to have a sound knowledge of finance or any background people can do it with the help of online tutorials or may be class room training.
    If necessary,Could you please share the links for Fundamentals of Finance,if you have any!!!
    Thanks in Advance!!!!!

    • Kratika,

      You have kind of already concluded that you want to do this . Now you are trying to find finance course to justify you taking up SAP FICO course.
      You have a technical qualification and should go for a technical job . Take up Java , C++ projects and maybe even SAP ABAP. Talk up to your managers and move out to development work and you will soon find a better path. This one that you seem to have already decided is not my recommendation.

  44. @Himanshu Vats
    Hi Himanshu,
    Just to let you know, I cleared FI certification exam today & once again would like to thank you for your timely kind advice  over the weeks, which surely helped me a lott…:)
    As a matter of fact i just managed to reach a lil above the pass percentage. Could you please kindly let me know if this is something to worry about? Would  the interviwers consider this? I mean is there any standard in every company regarding pass percentage..? The exam was very tough n i just managed to scraped through….:p
    :)….Thank You….:)

    • Sorry for the later reply.
      Congrats man. %age has no relevance. Keep learning and applying for a good job. Be in constant touch with what you learnt during your job hunting time.

  45. Hello Himanshu,
    This is Rahul , i am currently working in the finance domain ie on AP,AR, Client Billing , Payroll, will that work if i join FICO now , will my EXP consider please let me know .

  46. Hi,
    I Just graduated with an Economics degree but i i am also familiar with accounting because i took some accounting courses at my undergrad. 
    I also went for an info session on SAP FICO just last weekend and the introduction to accounting was pretty straight forward to me because i did some of it at the University.
    But then i found a website online that taught SAP FICO also.
    Would you think i would be better off going to the one that offered SAP FICO in class that charged 1500 dollars or the online one with just $800?
    Thanks.

    • Looks like you never had a job . Avoid wasting money on SAP FICO until you get some job experience. None of the above options will help you with a good job. You are better finding a finance job for now and think about these options couple of years later.

  47. Sir I did my B.Com. and M.C.A. and I am doing SAP FI course whether I have to attend SAP FI Certification. For getting better job as a Entry Level

    • This is a recipe for failure. Find job based on MCA . There is really no logic of a SAP FICO course after MCA. SAP FICO is not a course that can get you your first job easily.

  48. Hello Sir, 
    I have bachelors degree in commerce and C.A. Inter Clear, not pursuing C.A. anymore.. Now Pursuing Pg Diploma in Customer Relationship Management…
    During Articleship I did Sap Audit and it just dawned on me to pursue Sap Course but I am facing problems to decide how to proceed with it which modules to look up for … Also in near future I have to move to England ( Due to Marriage), So I wish to take up job there too based on my qualifications so I would like to proceed considering all these factors, Any guidance would be greatly appreciated… Thank you

    • Make your Bcom and CA Inter as the USP and get a finance/accounts job first. just few years of exp and you should be good to get into SAP FICO. Otherway round is difficult . Don’t expect SAP FICO course to get you your first job.

  49. Hi I’m an MBA in HR but want to do SAP in FICO as I dont see much growth in HCM.Is it feasible for me to take that step or should I stick to HCM?Waiting for reply.

  50. Hi Himanshu…
    I have read your article and many of your comments and I really find it to be very useful. 
    Thus I would like to share my current situation with you and hoping for some quality advise from you.

    I am a MBA finance graduate with Economic honors. After that I had work in derivatives for 2 years but in April 2013 I have left the job due to some personal reasons. Now I am finding it difficult to find the job again. Thus rather then sitting idle at home, I want to opt for SAP FICO module. Could you please let me know if my decision is good and whether should I go for it or not?

    Regards,
    Ankur

  51. Hi,
    Am 2 years experience in SAP  FI and Certified. now am looking for job. But am don know how interview question and all.please tell me how to ready for interview.

    Kumar

    • Only practice can help you buddy. Keep cramming more set of questions and it still wont get you a job.
      1. Make a list of topic you want to claim to know
      2. Practice on those

  52. Hi Sir,
    I have a master in finance and BCA degree. Have 3.6 years of experience in credit risk assessment in banking domain. Please suggest whether i should go for SAP? If yes which module will be proper based on my profile and after completion of the module, if I go for SAP jobs my 3.6 years of experience will be considered or not?
    Kinds Regards
    ZXC

  53. i have completed my graduation in 2012 (BMS) mumbai, so bcz of family problm  ihave took 1 yr gap then i took training of sap fi  so i am looking out for sap fi consultant (fresher) level job 
    or should i enhance my fico knowledge  guide me please i m getting demotivated .
    or suggesst from your point of view to get my sap carreer in better way

    • Sachin,

      Sorry for the delayed reply. Try some others jobs dude. Avoid wasting time in things which demotivate you. SAP FICO isnt good for your profile. If you keep trying you will end up being more demotivated.

  54. hi.. i’ve done my mba finance and worked at a bank for 1 year as a personal banker. I had to fly to US due to personal reasons. I’m now interested in doing SAP. What is the best module for an mba finance graduate. What about the job prospects here?

    • Please read through my other posts too to get an overall idea of what I recommend.
      1. If you really do want to go with a SAP module then it should be SAP FICO .
      2. Job prospects – Low due to almost nil relevant work exp .

  55. Hi Himanshu, 
    I have been working in IT Infrastructure Management for last 15 years, exposed to Data Center Management, Servers, network,  ITIL based process. I have done my basic degree through correspondence, B.Sc. Electronic Science and did Post Graduate Certificate in Business Management from XLRI, Jamshedpur. Will SAP Courses be a good option that I can plan to have a shift in my career inorder to gain some abroad opportunities like US, Canada or Australia? If so, which SAP course can be the apt one?

    • Anush ,

      I am not of much help here. All I can say you is I really could not suggest any SAP module to you even after reading your detailed profile. Nothing in SAP seems to map to it as per me.

  56. Hi Himanshu, Really glad to have come across this
    forum wherein you have been actively answering everyone’s query. i have read
    your answers and got the ans of my questions, but still write my thoughts.

    I havedone B.com and
    M.com in (2003 & 2007 )and thenMTM –
    travel management from Ignou ( not completed ). Since 2008, I am in Travel sector but think to
    change the domain as I have interest in doing SAP Fi/Co. Kindly advise can it
    be fruitful for me to do SAPFICO in any private institute and start career as
    fresher.

    • Hi Saumyajit ,

      Thanks for looking into my blog. Yes , course should be helpful . Just Avoid High fee Authorized money shredders which claim to give you a certified paper .

  57. HAI 
    i am finesh my mba fast 5years now i am working one of leading broking  delear can i learn sap fico it is the right time to learn. pls guide me if any thing sap modules suggest me

  58. Is SAP FICO recommended for an MFM grad (post B com) who used to work as a financial consultant till a year and half ago? Currently on a break but has about 8 years of experience.

    • So you already have 8 years of Financial consultant experience ? What kind of financial consultancy work did you do ? Lots of Women take off and join back . Job gap does not really matter for people who know the work.

  59. Hello , I have 3.6 years experience in internation Bpo with Accounts payable,expense admin and Order management projects. I have appied for MBA_ Finance as well, Will taking SAP – FICO course help me get better salary ? Im very unhappy with ma current salary :(. indly advise . Thanks!!

  60. Hi Himanshu, I have done my MBA in Finance and Banking, but my graduation is in chemistry. Post MBA I have close to 5 years of experience in Mutual Fund Industry in India working for Ireland. I have experience in db/cr, P&L, Balance sheet or in short to say the preparation of audited financial statements/documents for Mutual Funds in Mutual Fund Industry which is little different from the mainstream Finance/Accounting. I am planning to move into SAP FICO, but I am uncertain whether doing CFA or SAP would be a better choice. If I opt for SAP FICO then would my experience count and what is my prospect of landing a job in SAP FICO without any SAP experience in India or abroad. Your advice would be much appreciated. Thanks.

    • Rajushree,

      You have MBA in Finance and Banking . I think that should be good enough for you to go ahead with you idea. Yes , your experience should be counted. Prospect of landing job ( After taking up the course ) is better than fresh SAP FICO guy for sure.

  61. Hello Sir ! I have completed my CA Inter and have 3.5 years of articleship experience. I have appeared for CA Final Froup 1 exam 4 times. But I havent cleared it yet. So I was thinking about doing SAP FI module. Is it worthwhile to do SAP ? Will be placed in good cos. immediately after completing the certification from SAP. What are the fees for the course ? What about the future of SAP,i.e, will the demand for SAP consultant diminish in future ?

    • Abhishek,

      Your are 4 times more knowledgable than others on how to clear CA final. Focus on clearing CA final instead of wasting time SAP fico for now. Once you do than come here. You have already invested good enough time on this and so I would ask you not to get distracted to other courses in your final run.

  62. Hi, I am Accounts Professional, having more than 14 years of experience upto finanziation of books, and now starting to learn SAP FiCo and by next 4 months, it will be finish with one Live (Demo) Project, what kind of jobs may i get, and my past accounts experience will boost my job opportunity or not…. plz guide me, my email id is kkj576gmail.com

    • You should be able to apply for SAP functional consultant jobs. Yes, your past exp is good enough . Please work on your written communication skills too.

  63. Hello Himanshu,
       Am an IT professional with close to 9 years of work-exp on Mainframes -IT under banking(securities) domain and logistics domain(billing and accounts receivables). I want to now make a career shift to SAP, which i have been long wanting to do. But am afraid i do not have any finances background(from what i gathered from the posts). I just have a technical exp in providing the functionality required in either banking or logistics. Am not interested in technical anymore, but want to move into business and functional and to my mind i will find it interesting. So my question to you is can i start afresh without any background (as it is mentioned on the posts)? I thought since i have close to 6 years in banking domain, may be i should take FI module, but after reading the sub-modules under FI modules and reading your posts, am not sure if i would fit in, but i do have a ray of hope in the answer that – “NO. I know few Non-Financial background guys doing great in SAP FICO
    world and have seen CA/MBA finance guys struggling to get it cause they
    just wont learn.”. Am very much keen. Should i go through premier institutes? as i do not have a functional back ground. Please Advice. Thank you very much in advance!

    • Veena,

      Thanks for reading my words diligently. I would suggest you do not move to an entirely different domain. Forget SAP , Banking / Financial Business analyst role is what you should aspire to next.
      Here what I would do if I was in your shoes .
      I would get 6-7 resume of folks who are experienced BA with similar number of years of work exp as yours. Then I would see what these guys know which I don’t . I will try to build up my knowledge or few of those topics and then start moving out my resume for all BA roles . After few rejection I would know what knowledge I need to know and then you will get into a fully functional role too. Think of rejection as a step to update yourself on topics you failed and soon you will ace it for sure.

      Your been enough years in work and BA role requires less accounting knowledge ( mostly ) .

    • Veena,

      Thanks for reading my words diligently. I would suggest you do not move to an entirely different domain. Forget SAP , Banking / Financial Business analyst role is what you should aspire to next.
      Here what I would do if I was in your shoes .
      I would get 6-7 resume of folks who are experienced BA with similar number of years of work exp as yours. Then I would see what these guys know which I don’t . I will try to build up my knowledge or few of those topics and then start moving out my resume for all BA roles . After few rejection I would know what knowledge I need to know and then you will get into a fully functional role too. Think of rejection as a step to update yourself on topics you failed and soon you will ace it for sure.

      You been enough years in work and BA role requires less accounting knowledge ( mostly ) .

  64. HI Himanshu,
     I am B.com Graduate, now Pursuing M.com . I am interested in SAP FI.. I don’t have work Experience but if i go for KPO Finance and gain 2,3 years of experience. Is it possible? can i eligible after that?

    • Sure…KPO can be a good option. Avoid Financial market work though . It has not much relation to what you might do initial years in SAP FICO. Not everyone goes directly into SAP treasury :) .

  65. @Himanshu Vats  I have Completed Mba Finance in 2011 and Base is B.com, Working as Associate Consultant in Finance module one of the Erp. Now i am Studying SAP FICO, Is the Recruiters consider My resume As a Fresher. Note: I am Not Certified. Kindly Suggest me Sir.

  66. Hii.. I don’t have a finance background , but I have 2 years of Work Experience in SAP FICO Functional Testing.
    So, would it be better for me to move to the FICO Configuration ???
    Waiting for your Reply

    • Akash,

      Keep doing the job you are doing an meanwhile also enroll todo any finance degree part time. Knowledge is important dude , you cant just skip that knowledge part and assume that by testing some custom code for finance multiple times you know what Financial system . I would recommend to avoid course until you have developed your Finance background.

      • Thanks a lot, for your kind suggestions.I will immediately search for a short-term finance degree in and around my place.
        However, i don’t want to impose, but it would be of great help, if you could suggest me the proper short-term finance course required to strengthen my finance knowledge .
        Awaiting for your kind suggestions, again.. :)

  67. HI… i have completed MBA In HR in 2012, BCOM in 2010 n right nw in last sem of PGDFM… I am planning to do SAP  FI  in 2/3 days , I want to know in what range i could get salary.. and how will be my growth?

    • Looks like you have never had a job earlier. Expect basic entry level salary of what a software engineer fresh out of an average college ( not IITs ) might get at any medium level company ( not Googles :) ).
      I don’t know which one is better. Please share your feedback about which one you found was better .

  68. Hi Himanshu,

    I am bca graduate 2010 passout. working from 4 years in BPO. I want to learn SAP module. Please advice me which SAP module is suitable for my profile.

    2 years worked in health insurance profile and 2 years worked in order to cash project. I have little knowledge on SQL. Please advice me.

    • Most of your BCA course has been focussed on computer sciences . Please go for a technical course rather than a functional one. It need not necessarily be SAP . ABAP / JAVA / C++ lots of them to choose from if you want.

  69. Sir,
    Hi……  I had more than 12 years of accounting experience in India and would like to get SAP certification. Is it helpful for me to get a better job. What module should I select. My domain is construction and service sector. Please advice me, Thanks in advance.
    Pradi

    • Are you still working in a Accounting related job ? What are your day to day activities ? SAP FICO course might help but I would rather have more info to confirm if that might be a Advantage or not.

  70. Hi Himanshu, I have read every word on this site, I have been doing some research for a while, absolutely amazing information available here. I am a part qualified accountant (ACCA)- U.K and have been working in Finance for over 6 years as Finance Assistant/Assistant Accountant/Management Accountant and now as Senior Management accountant. Its been over 3 years I have been using SAP in current company as end user. I am a technical savvy individual who always wanted to work with systems especially finance side.  Do you recommend to go for it as I have been thinking to do FI-CO for a long time and I have interest in it as well. Can I get jobs straight away or do i need to complete a course? Trying to find where can i get courses in the city (London). Not sure what kind of job I would I get at this stage without having knowledge of Fi-Co as a consultant? Any help would be helpful. Thanks. Vishal

    • Hi Vishal,

      Since you have already read through a lot ( and thanks for being patient in reading all that :) ) , I will give concise answers.

      1. Yes , I do recommend for you. Should be very beneficial given your background .
      2. Course is a MUST to get knowhow of the Configuration side of things as currently you just have the End user perspective.
      3. After the course you can clearly mentions ” X yrs of domain + Y yrs of SAP FICO End user + Good config knowledge in SAP FICO ”

      Of course, learn well . That is the key to being more confident in interviews.

  71. Hi,
    First of all, thanks to you for providing these valuable information to all SAP aspirants like us. I would like to seek advise on my career decision.

    I am a PGDM in Marketing & MBA in Finance, with 2 years of experience in Banking Sector and presently (1 yr 9 mnths) in Hospital Marketing. I did my B.Com. with Accountancy major.

    I left my job in banking coz the situation was such that I needed to say in my home-town with my family at that point of time, and I was unable to gt a transfer to my home-town. After that I joined a Pvt. Eye Hospital in my town as a Marketing Manager (thanks to my Marketing degree). Now since my family issues are over I want to give a boost to my career. Is SAP a right choice for me. If yes, whether SAP FICO or SAP SD is the better one for me. What do you suggest, should I try to enhance my career in Marketing or should I go for Finance. M unable to decide.

    And the most important part can I continue with my current job while doing the course, coz the main problem is that I can’t afford to leave my job as my income supports my family.
    What do you suggest?

    And if possible plz gv me some idea about the institutes.

    Sorry for writing so long…………..!!!!

    • Hi Prabahan,

      Interestingly , you are in pretty sweet spot. You can either go in fo SAP SD ( due to your Mmarketing exposure ) or in SAP FICO ( due to your degree/MBA & Banking exp) . You have to decide which way you want to go . All I can tell you is both are open to you for sure.

      You dont need to leave job in any case. Go for the course ( weekend sessions ) alongside your job . Get comfortable and confident and then start applying . Don’t leave your current job until you have the next offer in hand.

      Sorry , I will have little idea about institutes. You will have to move around check what all options you have and choose from them.

      • Thanks a ton Himanshu for ur useful advise……….I will seek your advise again if I feel necessary……..

        U r doing a great job, keep it up!
        Thanks again!!!!

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