ICAI CA Exam Pattern Jan 2026, Updated Guidelines of Paper Structure

The ICAI CA exam pattern has been carefully prepared by ICAI to equip them with skills in taxation calculation and legal paperwork. The course extends to three levels: CA Foundation, CA Intermediate, and CA Finals, each requiring sequential perfection for chartered accountant certification.

These levels have separate examination patterns and different difficulty levels. Given the challenging nature of CA papers, pass rates are particularly low, motivating candidates to try several times to clear each level. The ICAI CA exam is conducted three times a year in May-June, September, and January. It is conducted in a computer-based format. This article explores the ICAI CA Exam Pattern Jan 2026.

CA Exam Pattern Jan 2026

The ICAI has disclosed an updated CA Exam Pattern as part of its latest scheme, ushering in a significant overhaul. Notably, the number of exams for both CA Intermediate and CA Final has been rationalized, decreasing from 8 to 6. Furthermore, multiple-choice questions (MCQs) have been introduced across all subjects at the CA Intermediate and CA Final levels, aiming to enhance the assessment process.

Highlights of ICAI CA Exam Pattern 2026

Update Alert: The CA exam pattern has changed for 2026. For a complete overview of the revised ICAI CA exam pattern, please refer to the table below, which outlines key details for the Foundation, Intermediate, and Final courses.

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CA Foundation Exam Pattern Jan 2026 

Below is a detailed breakdown of the CA Foundation Exam Pattern Jan 2026 for the Foundation level, including paper specifics, mark allocation, and question types:

CA Intermediate Exam Pattern Jan 2026

Significant updates are in the scope for CA Intermediate Accounting and Auditing! A new set of ethical guidelines is being introduced for CA Inter Auditing. Get familiar with the revised CA Inter Exam Pattern Jan 2026 for the intermediate-level examination, as outlined in the table below.

CA Final Exam Pattern Jan 2026

Check the below table for the CA Final Exam Pattern Jan 2026.

CA Course Duration according to New Syllabus 

Under the new CA syllabus, the total course duration is approximately 42 months (3.5 years), a reduction from the previous 48 months. This new timeline includes a compressed two-year articleship training period and the other stages of the course.

CA Passing Criteria According to New Scheme

ICAI has introduced new updated passing criteria as part of its new scheme. Under this updated policy, papers scoring 60 marks or higher will be considered permanently exempt. To clear the remaining papers, students must secure a minimum of 50% in each. Furthermore, students now have the flexibility to relinquish their exemptions, as per the new ICAI scheme, offering greater control over their academic journey.

Why Choose CA Exam Test Series for CA Preparation 

When it comes to preparing for the hard CA exams, choosing the right test series can make all the difference. caexams.in has emerged as a trusted and result-oriented platform for CA Foundation, Intermediate, and Final aspirants. Here's why it should be your first choice:

• Trusted by Thousands of CA Aspirants: CA Exams has built a strong reputation among CA students for its consistent quality and excellent student feedback.
• ICAI Pattern-Based Question Papers: All tests are strictly based on the latest ICAI exam pattern and syllabus, ensuring real exam-like practice.
• Timely Evaluation with Expert Feedback: Get your answers evaluated within 48–72 hours along with detailed feedback, a marking scheme, and improvement tips.
• Personalized Mentorship & Study Planner: Get personalized mentorship, performance tracking, and a daily study plan customized to your syllabus completion pace.