New Scheme for CA Intermediate Syllabus 2026:Updated Pattern & Strategy

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) periodically updates its education structure to ensure the CA curriculum remains aligned with contemporary professional standards. The New Scheme of Education and Training has been implemented progressively, and by May 2026, the Intermediate level exam is conducted entirely under this revised scheme. 

The new scheme aims to make the Intermediate curriculum more focused, practical, and streamlined. Instead of the earlier eight-paper pattern, the CA Intermediate syllabus now consists of six core papers divided into Group I and Group II. Each paper blends descriptive and objective components to test both theoretical understanding and practical application. 

Students appearing for the May, September, or January 2026 sessions must follow this structure. The transition to a modernized scheme brings clarity, case-based questions, and a balance of conceptual and analytical skills. Understanding its framework thoroughly is essential before planning serious preparation for CA Intermediate. 

CA Intermediate Highlights — New Scheme 2026

Before diving deeper, here’s a quick snapshot of the updated structure and syllabus under the New Scheme of Education and Training:

Understanding the New Intermediate Syllabus Structure

Under the New Scheme of Education and Training, ICAI has consolidated and rationalized subjects to provide a balanced and industry-aligned curriculum. Instead of the older eight papers, Intermediate now consists of six papers across two groups.

This change aims to reduce redundancy, increase analytical focus, and introduce more case-based assessments across all papers. Students need to master both the theoretical provisions and their real-world application. Practical understanding is now emphasized more than rote learning. 

Group I Papers

Group I is foundational and covers core accounting, legal, and tax concepts.

• Paper 1 — Advanced Accounting
• Paper 2 — Corporate and Other Laws
• Paper 3 — Taxation (Income Tax + GST)

Group II Papers

Group II develops professional skills, costing, an auditing mindset, and managerial strategy.

• Paper 4 — Cost and Management Accounting
• Paper 5 — Auditing and Ethics
• Paper 6 — Financial Management & Strategic Management

Paper-Wise Breakdown & What It Covers

Each paper in the 2026 syllabus has several modules and chapters that students must prepare thoroughly. Below is an overview of key contents from each paper. 

Paper 1 — Advanced Accounting

This paper focuses on accounting standards, financial reporting, and consolidation of accounts — essential skills for any finance professional.

• Accounting standards and frameworks
• Preparation and presentation of financial statements
• Corporate accounting for amalgamation, reconstruction
• Consolidated financial statements

Students must not only understand standards theoretically but also be able to apply them to real-life business transactions. 

Paper 2 — Corporate and Other Laws

This paper includes legal structures affecting companies, LLPs, and business operations.

• Company Law provisions and legal compliance
• Limited Liability Partnership Act
• Interpretation of statutes & rules of legal construction
• Foreign Exchange Management Act (Selected Topics)

A strong grip on corporate laws is vital, especially for professionals transitioning into audit, compliance, or corporate roles. 

Paper 3 — Taxation

Taxation is a two-part subject covering direct and indirect taxes.

Section A — Income Tax Law

• Basic concepts and residential status
• Heads of income and aggregation rules
• Deductions and computation of total income

Section B — Goods and Services Tax (GST)

• GST concepts and the charge of tax
• Place and time of supply
• Input tax credit and registration procedures

Practical computation, practice, and regular updates on amendments are essential due to frequent GST and income tax changes. 

Paper 4 — Cost and Management Accounting

This paper equips students with techniques for cost ascertainment and decision-making support.

• Material, labor, and overhead costs
• Cost accounting systems and costing methods
• Marginal costing, standard costing
• Budgeting and variance analysis

Cost accounting provides insights into internal cost control and management reporting.

Paper 5 — Auditing and Ethics

This paper connects audit principles with ethical standards vital for professional practice.

• Audit strategy, planning, and internal control
• Audit evidence and documentation
• Audit reports and special audits
• Professional ethics

Ethics and audit methodology are core skills for a practicing chartered accountant.

Paper 6 — Financial Management & Strategic Management

This combined paper equips students with analytical financial skills and strategic decision-making capabilities.

Section A — Financial Management

• Financing decisions and cost of capital
• Working capital management
• Dividend and investment decisions

Section B — Strategic Management

• Strategic planning concepts
• Corporate policies and decision frameworks

Strategic management complements financial skills with organizational goals and planning ability. 

How the New Exam Pattern Works

Under the new scheme, ICAI has introduced a mixed format for every paper:

• Descriptive Questions — 70 Marks: Core long-answer and problem-solving questions.
• Objective Questions/MCQs — 30 Marks: Based on real-life scenarios or case studies. 

There is no negative marking for the multiple-choice questions, encouraging students to attempt all questions confidently. In descriptive sections, accurate presentation and working notes are key to scoring well. 

Passing Criteria and Strategy

To clear CA Intermediate under the new scheme, students must score:

• At least 40% in each paper
• At least 50% aggregate in each group (Group I & Group II separately) 

This means a balanced preparation approach for every subject is critical. Ignoring one paper can reduce the chance of passing the group even with good scores in others.

Changes You Must Note for 2026 Attempts

Several changes introduced by the new scheme impact how students should prepare:

1. Fewer Papers but Broader Coverage

Reduction from eight to six papers simplifies the overall structure, but each paper has broader content and diverse question formats. 

2. Case-based MCQs Across All Papers

Case study-based objective questions are now integrated in every paper, testing analytical application over rote memory. 

3. Updated Laws & Standards

Students must follow the latest amendments in corporate laws, GST, and income tax as notified by ICAI. 

Preparation Tips for the New CA Intermediate Syllabus

Preparing for Intermediate under the updated scheme requires smart planning:

• Understand the Complete Syllabus First

Spend time mapping out topics in each paper and identifying high-weightage areas before starting a detailed study.

• Use ICAI Study Material and RTPs

Official study modules, RTPs, and past questions provide the most accurate pattern and question expectations. 

• Practice Case Studies

Since 30% of marks come from objective/case-based questions, practicing case studies daily will help in time management and analytical thinking.

• Revision Strategy

Multiple revision cycles (first, second, and final) help lock concepts and reduce errors. Begin revision weeks before the exam to avoid last-minute stress.

Preparing Group-Wise Strategy

• For Group I

Focus intensely on Accounting standards, Company law compliance, and tax computations since they carry significant marks and practical application.

• For Group II

Develop a mix of numerical practice (cost and finance) and conceptual clarity (audit and ethics, strategic management). Time management becomes crucial.

Summary

The New Scheme for CA Intermediate Syllabus 2026 fosters a balanced combination of theory and applied skills, making the syllabus industry-relevant and examination-aligned. By understanding the structure, mastering core concepts, practicing case studies, and following a strategic preparation plan, students can approach the Intermediate exams with confidence and clarity.