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If you’re a CA final student, this ICAI announcement you’ve been waiting for—and it changes everything.
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially announced on 6 April 2026 a significant shift in how the CA Final examination schedule will work in the future. Starting in May 2026, the CA final exams will be conducted only twice a year—in May and November.
What's Changing?
Until now, CA Final exams were held three times a year—in January, May, and September. While that gave students more attempts annually, it also created pressure and uncertainty around planning.
After carefully considering stakeholder feedback, the ICAI Council has decided to streamline the exam calendar. The September window is being removed, leaving students with two focused attempts each year.
Why This Matters
So far, the CA final examinations have been conducted three times in the months of January, May, and September. Based on a thorough analysis of the views shared by the students, teachers, and other concerned people, it has been decided by the ICAI council that the number of windows for conducting the exams would be reduced to just two – May and November.
The window for September exams, which served as an additional option for the students, would no longer exist.
Key Takeaway
If you’re preparing for your CA Final, mark your calendars—May and November are now your two shots each year. Make them count.
Source: Official announcement by Anand Kumar Chaturvedi, Joint Secretary (Examinations), ICAI—dated 6th April 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many times will the CA Final Exam be held from 2026 onwards?
Starting May 2026, ICAI has moved to a twice-a-year schedule for CA Final Examinations—once in May and once in November. This gives students two clear windows every year to plan and prepare.
2. What was the earlier exam frequency?
Previously, CA Final exams were held three times a year — in January, May, and September. So students actually had more attempts, but the new structure brings more focused preparation cycles
3. Who issued this announcement?
The announcement was officially issued by Anand Kumar Chaturvedi, Joint Secretary (Examinations), ICAI.
4. From which exam cycle does this new schedule apply?
This change kicks in from the May 2026 CA Final Examination and continues for all subsequent attempts.
Looking for more? Check out our blog on: ICAI CA January 2026 CA Results Declared – Foundation, Inter & Final
