CA Exams to Be Held Thrice a Year from 2025 – In a historic move, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India has announced that the CA Final exams will now be conducted three times a year instead of the existing biannual schedule. This change, set to take effect from 2025, aligns the CA Final exam schedule with that of the Intermediate and Foundation levels, offering students greater flexibility and more opportunities to clear the exams.
Until now, Final exams of CA were conducted twice a year, in May and November. From 2025 onward, ICAI will hold the exams in January, May, and September, providing students with more opportunities to appear for and clear the examination.
The change was formally approved during the 441st Council Meeting of ICAI, held on March 27, 2025, in New Delhi. ICAI President CA Charanjot Singh Nanda highlighted the importance of this move in aligning with global best practices and ensuring a more efficient examination system.
Implications for CA Aspirants
- More Exam Attempts Per Year
Candidates will no longer have to wait six months for the next attempt, significantly reducing delays in completing the qualification process. - Faster Course Completion
With more opportunities to take the exams, students can progress through the CA course more efficiently and enter the profession sooner. - Flexibility in Planning
The revised schedule allows candidates to align their preparation strategy with multiple exam cycles, reducing the pressure associated with limited attempts. - Alignment with International Standards
Many global professional accounting bodies conduct examinations multiple times a year. This move brings ICAI’s structure in sync with international best practices.
Changes in Post Qualification Courses
In addition to restructuring the Final exam schedule, ICAI has announced that the Information Systems Audit (ISA) Assessment Test will now be conducted thrice a year instead of twice. The new schedule for this test will be February, June, and October.
Official Statement from ICAI
In its official announcement, the institute stated:
“To stay in sync with global standards and provide students with greater opportunities, the 26th Council of ICAI has taken a historic decision to hold the CA Final examination three times a year. This move will benefit thousands of aspirants by offering more flexibility and reducing the waiting period between attempts.”
Institute is expected to release detailed guidelines regarding the new schedule, including registration deadlines, examination dates, and application procedures. The May 2025 cycle will be the first to follow this revised structure.
