ICAI Exam Dates: A Comprehensive Overview

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) conducts examinations at various levels to qualify aspiring Chartered Accountants. These exams are held twice a year, generally in May and November.

Exam Levels and Dates

The CA curriculum consists of three levels: Foundation, Intermediate, and Final. Each level has a specific examination schedule announced by the ICAI.

CA Foundation Exams

The CA Foundation exam is the entry-level exam. Typically, the May session exams are held in late May or early June. The November session exams usually take place in December. The ICAI releases a detailed schedule well in advance, usually a few months before the examination period. The subjects include Accounting, Business Laws, Quantitative Aptitude, and Business Economics.

CA Intermediate Exams

The CA Intermediate exam is divided into two groups. Students can choose to appear for one or both groups in a single attempt. The exams are scheduled in May and November, similar to the Foundation level. The May session typically starts in the second week of May, and the November session begins in the first week of November. The timetable specifies the dates for each group’s papers, including Accounting, Corporate Laws, Cost and Management Accounting, Taxation, Advanced Accounting, Auditing and Assurance, Enterprise Information Systems & Strategic Management, and Financial Management & Economics for Finance.

CA Final Exams

The CA Final exam, like the Intermediate, is divided into two groups. The exam schedule mirrors that of the other levels, taking place in May and November. The exams cover topics such as Financial Reporting, Strategic Financial Management, Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics, Corporate and Economic Laws, Strategic Cost Management and Performance Evaluation, Direct Tax Laws & International Taxation, and Indirect Tax Laws. The dates are meticulously planned to allow sufficient gaps between papers.

Staying Updated

The ICAI’s official website (icai.org) is the primary source for all exam-related information, including date announcements, admit card releases, and result declarations. Students should regularly check the website for updates. Additionally, the ICAI communicates important announcements through its social media channels and email notifications.

Important Considerations

The ICAI reserves the right to change the exam dates due to unforeseen circumstances. Any changes will be notified on the official website. Students should plan their preparation based on the official schedule and remain flexible in case of unexpected adjustments. It’s also crucial to ensure that all registration and examination form submissions are completed within the stipulated deadlines to avoid any last-minute issues.

Remember to download your admit card from the ICAI website once it’s released. The admit card contains essential details, including the exam center, timings, and instructions.