ICAI mandates Strict 17-day deadline for all online applications for upcoming CA exams

ICAI has followed its new policy of conducting Intermediate and Foundation examinations thrice a year instead of the previous two year schedule.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has made significant changes to the application process for the Chartered Accountant (CA) examination, shortening the application window from 28 days to 17 days.

This new schedule, which comes into effect for the November 2024 CA Final and Post - qualification (PQC) examinations, is a major change to the examination process and calendar.

The decision to go for this compressed schedule is a significant development for CA candidates. Due to the demand for timely results and improved performance management, ICAI has aligned the application schedule with its new policy of conducting Intermediate and Foundation exams thrice a year instead of the previous two years.

Important Education for Tax Professionals: Know Your Institution!

This change requires faster completion of exam centres, quick evaluation of answer scripts and timely release of results, all of which are essential  to maintain the quality and schedule of CA exams.

The shorter application period is not the only change, but it does mean greater responsibility for students to meet deadlines and ensure they are prepared for the exam. The application process is timely.

The 17-day window encourages students to stay focused, prepare in advance, and complete the application process within the allotted time, thereby minimizing any potential disruptions in exam preparation.

Essential Training for Tax Professionals: Know Your Sections!

The application period for November 2024 CA final and PQC exam starts closing after 17 days. However, considering the outcry from students, ICAI has reopened the application window for two days on September 11 and 12, 2024 as a one-time measure, as this is the first year that these changes are being implemented.

Students who missed the last time will be charged a late fee of €600 (or $10) for this extra time to accommodate them.

By shortening the application process, ICAI is able to identify laboratories and allocate resources more efficiently. This also allows examiners to start the evaluation process earlier and speed up the publication of results, which is important for students to prepare their work.

Important Education for Tax Professionals: Know Your Institution!

The revamped schedule will facilitate better organization of the three-times-a-year exams. This could benefit students by reducing long waiting times for exams and giving them more time to take them throughout the year.

The 17-day window provides more flexibility in the application process. Students must be meticulous, organized, and have the skills required for the profession they want to enter. Meeting strict deadlines demonstrates the discipline required for an accounting position.

The new schedule brings consistency to all CA exams including final exam, midterm exam, foundation exam and post-qualification course. Students at different stages of the CA course will now follow the new schedule.

Important Education for Tax Professionals: Know Your Institution!

ICAI has announced that this shortened time will be the norm for all CA exams going forward. While there is an agreement to reopen the application window for the November 2024 exam, students need to be prepared for the upcoming exam.

Students are advised to utilize the entire reopening period from 11-12 September 2024 to fill the application form and get the latest information through the official ICAI website www.icai.org.