ICAI (The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India)

ICAI 2026

The ICAI 2026 exam dates are released by the authorities in their official ICAI website. The ICAI exam is known to be a prestigious and rigorous professional examination. The ICAI exam is conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for aspiring chartered accountants across the country. The ICAI exam is designed to assess the candidates’ knowledge, skills, and competence in various domains of accounting, auditing, finance, taxation, and business laws. The ICAI 2026 exam is structured in three progressive levels — Foundation, Intermediate, and Final — each intended to test the aspirant’s understanding from basic concepts to advanced applications which are necessary for the chartered accountancy profession.

The ICAI 2026 exam will follow a comprehensive syllabus aligned with current industry practices and standards while emphasizing analytical thinking and problem-solving. Candidates registered with ICAI are required to clear all three levels sequentially, with each stage involving theoretical exams and practical training components. The ICAI 2026 exam dates, application process, syllabus, and exam pattern are published well in advance to help candidates prepare systematically and plan their schedules effectively.

Successfully clearing the ICAI 2026 exams will open up a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as Auditing, Taxation, Finance Management, Consultancy, and Corporate Governance, making it a highly sought-after qualification for commerce students in India and abroad. Proper preparation, adherence to eligibility norms, and understanding of the ICAI exam format are crucial for aspirants aiming to join this elite profession.

For further details regarding ICAI 2026 entrance exam candidates may continue reading the article below.

ICAI 2026 – Key Highlights

Basic Information on ICAI

The ICAI exam, or the Chartered Accountancy (CA) examination, is conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and is recognized as one of the most challenging professional qualification exams in India. The ICAI exam is divided into three progressive levels: CA Foundation (entry-level), CA Intermediate (second level), and CA Final (advanced level). Each of these levels are designed in assessing candidates' knowledge, analytical skills, and professional competence in areas such as accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management. Successful candidates who clear all three levels, complete the required practical training, and fulfil other ICAI requirements earn the prestigious designation of Chartered Accountant, opening doors to diverse and rewarding careers in Finance, Business, and industry.

ICAI 2026 Exam Dates

Following is the list of the ICAI 2026 exam dates. Please note that these dates are official dates as the authorities have released the dates in their official website.

ICAI 2026 Exam Highlights

ICAI 2026 Eligibility Criteria

For ICAI 2026, eligibility criteria vary depending on the exam level. Candidates can provisionally register for the CA Foundation after Class 10, but must clear Class 12 from a recognized board. The eligibility criteria for ICAI exam 2026 also requires the candidates to complete at least four months of study after registration before taking the ICAI 2026 exam. Commerce Graduates with at least 55% or non-Commerce with 60%—and qualified ICSI/ICMAI Intermediate pass candidates may directly enroll in CA Intermediate, while CA Final aspirants must have passed Intermediate and completed the required period of articleship training (2 or 3 years, depending on their pathway) as specified by ICAI before exam forms are filled.

Following is the list of some of the eligibility criteria for ICAI 2026 based on the previous years’ trends and patterns.

• Provisional registration for CA Foundation is allowed after passing Class 10; Class 12 pass is required to appear for the exam.
• Direct entry to CA Intermediate is open for graduates and postgraduates.
• CA Final aspirants must complete 3 years of articleship (or as specified) and pass both CA Intermediate groups.
• Completion of Advanced ICITSS (Information Technology and Soft Skills) is also mandatory for Final exam eligibility.
• Candidates must fulfil self-paced online module requirements where applicable.

Read More About ICAI 2026 Eligibility Criteria

ICAI 2026 Application Form

The ICAI 2026 application form process for the Chartered Accountancy exams is conducted online through the official ICAI examination portal. Candidates must first ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and have a valid registration with ICAI before filling out the ICAI application form. The application forms for CA Foundation, Intermediate, and Final exams must be filled out with accurate personal, academic, and exam-related details, including choice of exam center. Payment of the ICAI exam fees is done online, and candidates should review the application form carefully before final submission, as no changes are allowed afterward. After submitting the ICAI application form, candidates are advised to keep the payment receipt or confirmation PDF for future reference. In case a candidate faces challenges regarding their photos and signatures not appearing clearly on the application form, a physical signed and attested printout must be sent to the ICAI examination department by the specified deadline.

Steps to Fill ICAI 2026 Application Form Online

• Application forms are available and submitted only on the official ICAI exam
• Candidates must fill in accurate information and upload required documents (photos, signatures, etc.).
• Pay the applicable exam fees online during the application process.
• Review the form thoroughly before submitting; no edits allowed post-submission.
• Candidates whose photo/signature do not display must send a signed printed copy to ICAI by the deadline.
• Keep the confirmation or receipt PDF for future reference.
• Missing deadlines or incorrect form details can lead to disqualification or late fees.

Read More About ICAI 2026 Application

ICAI 2026 Exam Pattern

The ICAI 2026 exam pattern has been updated with a new scheme that introduces a mix of subjective and objective questions across all levels—Foundation, Intermediate, and Final examinations. The ICAI exams are pen-and-paper based, with each paper typically lasting 3 hours. The total marks for most of these papers are 100, divided into different sections depending on the level and subject. Negative marking in the ICAI 2026 exam pattern applies only to certain objective sections, mainly in the Foundation exam. The CA Intermediate and Final exams are split into groups, each comprising multiple papers with both theoretical and practical components to assess comprehensive understanding and skills in accounting, law, taxation, auditing, and finance.

Read More About ICAI 2026 Exam Pattern

ICAI 2026 Syllabus

The ICAI 2026 syllabus comprises three levels – Foundation, Intermediate, and Final, each focusing on progressively advanced Accounting, Finance, Law, Taxation, Auditing, and Management subjects. The Foundation covers basics like Accounting Principles, Business Laws, Economics, and Mathematics. The Intermediate and Final levels of ICAI syllabus include deeper topics like corporate laws, strategic financial management, auditing, and direct and indirect tax laws, tailored to develop professional competencies.

Read More About ICAI 2026 Syllabus

ICAI 2026 Preparation Tips

Effective preparation for the ICAI 2026 exams includes understanding the syllabus thoroughly, practicing past papers, and revising regularly. Candidates should focus on conceptual clarity, time management during exams, and strengthening weaker subjects. Joining coaching classes, making short notes, and consistent self-assessment tests can enhance performance. Staying updated with ICAI announcements and taking mock tests simulating exam conditions are also beneficial.

Read More About ICAI 2026 Preparation Tips

ICAI 2026 Admit Card

The ICAI 2026 admit card will be issued online on the official ICAI exam portal shortly before the exam date. Candidates need to download and print the ICAI 2026 admit card, as entry to exam centers strictly requires the ICAI 2026 admit card. It contains essential details like roll number, exam center, timings, and instructions. Any discrepancies in the ICAI 2026 admit card must be reported immediately. The ICAI 2026 admit card also helps candidates identify their venue and plan logistics ahead of the examination.

ICAI 2026 Cut Offs

ICAI 2026 cut-offs are minimum qualifying marks set to pass each paper and overall exam. Generally, candidates must score a minimum aggregate of 40% in individual papers and an aggregate of 50% across all papers to qualify the ICAI exam as a whole. Cut-offs may vary slightly based on ICAI 2026 exam difficulty and pass percentage statistics. Meeting or exceeding these cut-offs is essential to clear each ICAI 2026 exam level and proceed to the next step.

Read More About ICAI 2026 Cut Off

ICAI 2026 Results

ICAI 2026 exam results are announced online on the ICAI official website. Student portals after the ICAI exams are concluded and the evaluation process ends. Candidates can check their marks, pass/fail status, and merit position in the official ICAI website. ICAI results are accompanied by detailed mark sheets and are critical for eligibility for subsequent stages, practical training, and final certification.

ICAI 2026 Counselling Process

The ICAI counselling process for 2026 mainly pertains to guidance and support for practical training articleship and further career pathways after clearing ICAI exams. While ICAI does not conduct formal seat allotment counselling like entrance exams, it provides resources, mentorship, and placement assistance to CA aspirants for apprenticeships and job opportunities, ensuring smooth progress through the professional journey.

Read More About ICAI 2026 Counselling

ICAI 2026 Instructions

1. Candidates should upload their photograph and signature with the preferred size in the portal which should be clearly visible.
2. Candidates need to carry their admit card/hall ticket to the exam centre. Candidates will be prohibited from entering the exam hall without this document.
3. Candidates will also be required to carry a valid ID proof such as – Voter ID Card/ Aadhaar Card/ PAN Card/ Driving License, etc.
4. It is advisable for all candidates to enter the designated exam hall before time for a smooth security process before the beginning of exam.
5. Any candidate violating the rules will be strictly dealt as per the norms of the exam centre.
6. Any candidate pursuing any unfair means in the exam hall will be dealt with as per the rules and regulations of the test centre.

ICAI 2026 – FAQs

Q1. What is the passing criteria for the ICAI CA Foundation 2026 exam?

Ans. To pass the CA Foundation exam, candidates must secure a minimum of 40% marks in each paper and an overall aggregate of 50% across all four papers. This ensures balanced performance across subjects and overall proficiency.

Q2. Are there any negative markings in the ICAI 2026 exam?

Ans. Negative marking applies only in the objective (MCQ) sections of the CA Foundation exam, where 0.25 marks are deducted for each wrong answer. There is no negative marking for the Intermediate and Final exam papers.

Q3. Can a candidate change the medium of examination after submitting the application form?

Ans. Yes, ICAI allows changing the medium of examination during the correction window after the exam form submission. Candidates must ensure to make this change timely as per ICAI notifications.

Q4. Is coaching necessary for cracking ICAI exams in 2026?

Ans. Coaching is optional. Many candidates successfully clear the ICAI exams through self-study by using ICAI’s official study material, practicing past papers, and testing regularly. Coaching can help in clarifying concepts and improving speed but is not mandatory.

Q5. What is the exam duration and timing for ICAI 2026 exams?

Ans. The ICAI 2026 exam duration for most papers is 3 hours, typically conducted from 2 pm to 5 pm. Some Foundation exam papers like Papers 3 and 4 have a duration of 2 hours and are scheduled accordingly.