The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has recently announced a significant change in the CA exam pattern. Starting from June 2024, the CA Foundation and Intermediate exams will be conducted three times a year, whereas the CA Final exams will continue to be held twice a year. This change aims to provide more flexibility and better chances of success for CA students.

Key Highlights of CA Exams Thrice a Year

CA Foundation and Intermediate Exams: These exams will now be held three times a year, in January, May/June, and September. This change is expected to reduce stress for students and provide them with more opportunities to excel in their CA journey.

CA Final Exams: The CA Final exams will continue to be held biannually, with the next exam scheduled for November 2024.

Benefits

Increased Flexibility: The new exam schedule allows students to take exams at their convenience, reducing stress and providing more opportunities for success.

Improved Performance: The continuous learning approach fostered by the new schedule is expected to improve student performance and reduce the risks associated with having only one chance at the exams.

Reduced Stress: The increased frequency of exams helps alleviate student stress by providing more opportunities to reset and improve performance.

Implementation

Registration: Students can register for the CA course under the new scheme through the Self Service Portal (SSP) at the link https://eservices.icai.org/.

Study Period and Practical Training: Students must complete the required study period and practical training before appearing in the exams.

Passing Exams: Students must pass both groups of Intermediate Examination and complete two years of uninterrupted practical training to register for the Final Course.

Registration and Eligibility

CA Foundation and Intermediate Exams: Students must complete their registration at least 4 months and 8 months before the exam dates, respectively.

CA Final Exams: There is no registration cutoff date for CA Final exams, but students must ensure a gap of at least 6 months after completing their practical training before appearing for the exams.

Conclusion

The new scheme of education and training for the CA course aims to provide a more comprehensive and structured education to students. The changes introduced in the syllabus and exam pattern are designed to align the CA course with international standards and the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP). Students who are planning to pursue the CA course under the new scheme should carefully review the new syllabus and exam pattern to ensure they are well-prepared for the exams.