In a significant update benefiting Chartered Accountancy (CA) candidates, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has declared that, starting in 2025, the CA Final exams will be conducted three times a year. This move brings India’s CA examination schedule in line with global standards and enhances opportunities for aspiring chartered accountants to complete their qualifications more efficiently.
CA Final Exam to Be Held in January, May, and September
Previously administered twice annually, the CA Final exam will now take place in January, May, and September. This revision ensures consistency across all levels of the CA program, as both the Intermediate and Foundation exams have already adopted a similar frequency. With this adjustment, candidates will no longer face prolonged waiting periods between attempts, allowing for a more streamlined and flexible certification process.
ICAI, in its official statement, emphasized the importance of this change:
“To align with global best practices and provide students with increased opportunities, the 26th Council of ICAI has made a landmark decision to hold the CA Final exam three times a year.”
Enhanced Flexibility and Increased Success Rate
With the introduction of three exam cycles per year, all three levels of the CA course—Final, Intermediate, and Foundation—now provide students with additional chances to appear for the exams. This update allows candidates to plan their studies strategically, reducing the pressure associated with limited attempts.
The change is expected to benefit students by:
- Reducing the impact of unexpected setbacks, such as failing an exam or facing personal challenges.
- Accelerating the completion timeline for students who are well-prepared and ready to attempt the exams sooner.
- Offering more flexibility in study planning, enabling aspirants to choose exam cycles based on their preparedness.
By increasing the number of exam sessions, ICAI aims to improve the success rate and encourage a more structured approach to learning.
Revamped Information Systems Audit Post-Qualification Course
In addition to revising the CA Final examination structure, ICAI has introduced major changes to the Post Qualification Course in Information Systems Audit. Previously, the Assessment Test for this course was conducted twice a year, in June and December. However, starting in 2025, the test will be held three times annually—in February, June, and October.
This restructuring aims to enhance accessibility for ICAI members, allowing them to complete the course at a more convenient pace. The increased frequency ensures that professionals seeking specialization in Information Systems Audit can acquire their credentials without unnecessary delays.
Key Changes at a Glance
| Change | Previous Schedule | New Schedule (From 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| CA Final Exams | May, November | January, May, September |
| Information Systems Audit Assessment Test | June, December | February, June, October |
Conclusion
ICAI’s decision to hold CA Final exams thrice a year marks a major reform in the Chartered Accountancy examination system. By aligning with international best practices and offering additional opportunities, ICAI aims to make the certification process more adaptable and efficient. Similarly, the revised schedule for the Information Systems Audit Assessment Test enhances accessibility for members seeking further specialization.
These changes reflect ICAI’s commitment to evolving with the needs of its students and members, ensuring that the CA qualification remains competitive, accessible, and in sync with the dynamic professional landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has ICAI increased the number of CA Final exam sessions?
ICAI aims to align with global best practices and provide students with more opportunities to complete their exams efficiently. The new schedule reduces waiting time between attempts and helps students plan their studies better.
When will the CA Final exams be conducted from 2025?
Starting in 2025, the CA Final exams will be held three times a year—in January, May, and September.
Does this change affect the Intermediate and Foundation exams?
No, the Intermediate and Foundation exams were already being conducted thrice a year. This change ensures uniformity across all levels of the CA program.
How does this impact students preparing for the CA Final exam?
Students will have increased flexibility in their study schedules, more chances to clear the exams within a shorter period, and reduced delays due to failed attempts.
What changes have been made to the Information Systems Audit course?
The Assessment Test for the Post Qualification Course in Information Systems Audit will now be conducted thrice a year instead of twice, in February, June, and October.
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