You don't really need great IT skills working as a QA/BA (albeit I'm neither of the two). Matter of fact, all Indian housewives seem to be working as QAs in a vast majority of areas in the Bay Area. 

Re: Good/Bad consultancies, you might wanna look it up off Sulekha.com. 

I wouldn't join a company if they asked for joining fees, though. There are plenty that offer free classes, accomodation and some even pay money during the training period. 

Good luck!