ICAI to hold CA Final exam twice a year from May 2026

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India has revised the CA Final examination schedule, announcing that the test will be held twice a year starting May 2026.

The decision replaces the current system of three attempts annually and is aimed at streamlining the exam cycle.

According to an official notice, the Chartered Accountants Final Examination will now be conducted in May and November each year.

ICAI stated that the change follows feedback from students, faculty, and industry stakeholders seeking a more predictable schedule and better preparation time.

At present, the CA Final exam is held in January, May, and September. Under the new framework, the January cycle will be discontinued, with January 2026 set to be the last examination under the existing pattern.

The institute said concerns had been raised about frequent exam cycles affecting students’ ability to prepare effectively.

By reducing the number of attempts, ICAI expects candidates to have more time for revision and improved planning.

The revised structure will limit the exam to two attempts annually, removing the January session entirely from 2026 onward.

The move is expected to bring greater clarity to the examination calendar while helping students focus on preparation.