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The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially announced the exam dates for CA Foundation, Intermediate, and Final courses for the January 2026 session. This announcement marks a crucial milestone for thousands of aspiring Chartered Accountants across India, providing them with clarity on timelines and helping them align their preparation strategies.
đź—“ Exam Schedule for January 2026
Here’s the complete overview of the exam timetable:
CA Final (New Scheme)
- Group I: January 5, 7, and 9, 2026
- Group II: January 11, 13, and 16, 2026
CA Intermediate (New Scheme)
- Group I: January 6, 8, and 10, 2026
- Group II: January 12, 15, and 17, 2026
CA Foundation
- Paper 1: January 18, 2026
- Paper 2: January 20, 2026
- Paper 3: January 22, 2026
- Paper 4: January 24, 2026
âš Note: However, there will be no exams on January 14, 2026, due to major festivals like Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Magh Bihu.
đź“ť Application Window & Deadlines
Application Start Date: November 3, 2025
Last Date (without late fee): November 16, 2025
Last Date (with late fee): November 19, 2025
Correction Window: November 20–22, 2025
👉 Students must apply through the ICAI Self-Service Portal (SSP) only.
⏰ ICAI CA Exam Timings (January 2026)
CA Foundation:
- Papers 1 & 2 → 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (3 hours)
- Papers 3 & 4 → 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM (2 hours)
CA Intermediate & Final:
- Most papers are 3 hours.
- CA Final Paper 6 (elective) is 4 hours.
- Advance reading time: 15 minutes for descriptive papers.
🎯 Preparation Tips for CA Aspirants
Create a Structured Study Plan
With dates confirmed, aspirants should start reverse-engineering their study schedule. Divide the syllabus into monthly, weekly, and daily targets.
Apply Early and Avoid Last-Minute Issues
Also, don’t wait until the last moment. Fill in exam forms early to avoid technical glitches.
Mock Test Strategy
Furthermore, practice mock exams in real exam timings, including the 15-minute reading time, to simulate the exam environment.
Stay Updated with ICAI Notifications
Moreover, ICAI may release further notifications about exam centres, admit cards, or guidelines. Bookmark the ICAI website and check regularly.
FAQs
When will ICAI conduct the CA January 2026 exams?
The exams are scheduled from January 5 to January 24, 2026 for Foundation, Intermediate, and Final.
What is the last date to apply for the CA January 2026 exams?
Apply by November 16, 2025 (without late fee) or November 19, 2025 (with late fee).
How to apply for ICAI CA January 2026 exams?
Students must apply through the ICAI Self-Service Portal (SSP).
What are the timings for CA Foundation exams?
Paper 1 & 2: 2–5 PM, Paper 3 & 4: 2–4 PM.
How to prepare for CA January 2026 exams?
Follow a study plan, attempt mock tests, revise daily, and check ICAI updates.
Looking for more? Check out our blog on:Â Top 10 Best CA Coaching Institutes in India in 2025
