ICAI CA January 2026 Exam Dates Out – Check Dates & Timing

ICAI CA January 2026: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially announced the CA exam schedule for January 2026, covering the CA Foundation, Intermediate, and Final courses. Aspiring Chartered Accountants can now check the complete timetable, exam timings, application dates, and fee details on the official ICAI portal at icai.org.

This announcement is crucial for students preparing for the upcoming session, as it helps them align their CA exam preparation strategy with the officially declared dates. Let’s take a detailed look at the ICAI CA January 2026 exam dates, timings, registration window, and important instructions.

ICAI CA January 2026 Exam Dates

Here is the official CA exam timetable released by ICAI for all three levels:

Exam Level	Exam Dates (January 2026)
Foundation	18th, 20th, 22nd & 24th January 2026
Intermediate Group 1	6th, 8th & 10th January 2026
Intermediate Group 2	12th, 15th & 17th January 2026
Final Group 1	5th, 7th & 9th January 2026
Final Group 2	11th, 13th & 16th January 2026

Also read: CBSE Mid-Term Exam Dates 2025-26 | Classes 9, 10, 11 & 12 Schedule & Preparation Tips

ICAI CA January 2026 Exam Timings and Duration

ICAI has clearly mentioned the exam timings for each level:

Exam Level	Paper(s)	Time Slot (IST)	Duration
Foundation	Papers 1 & 2	2:00 PM – 5:00 PM	3 Hours
	Papers 3 & 4*	2:00 PM – 4:00 PM	2 Hours
Intermediate	All Papers	2:00 PM – 5:00 PM	3 Hours
Final	Papers 1 to 5	2:00 PM – 5:00 PM	3 Hours
	Paper 6	2:00 PM – 6:00 PM	4 Hours
INTT – AT	International Taxation Test	2:00 PM – 6:00 PM	4 Hours
IRM	Insurance & Risk Management	2:00 PM – 5:00 PM	3 Hours

ICAI CA January 2026 Application Dates

The CA January 2026 exam application process will take place through the ICAI Self-Service Portal. Here’s the timeline:

• Start of Online Application: 3rd November 2025
  
• Last Date (without late fee): 16th November 2025
  
• Last Date (with late fee ₹600 / US$10): 19th November 2025
  
• Correction Window: 20th – 22nd November 2025

Students should apply well before the last date to avoid server issues at the last moment.

Important Instructions for ICAI CA January 2026 Examinees

• Festival Break: No exams will be conducted on 14 January 2026.
  
• Reading Time: Students will get 15 minutes of reading time before the paper begins (except MCQ-based papers).
  
• Admit Card: Must be downloaded from ICAI portal before the exam.
  
• Exam Language: Students can choose English or Hindi, except PQC exams, which are only in English.
  
• Application Mode: Only via ICAI Self-Service Portal eservices.icai.org.

Preparation Tips for ICAI CA January 2026 Attempt

1. Stick to ICAI Study Material – Focus on ICAI-provided modules, practice manuals, and RTPs (Revision Test Papers).
   
2. Create a Revision Plan – Dedicate the last 30 days for multiple revisions.
   
3. Mock Tests – Attempt ICAI mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
   
4. Time Management – Practice solving past papers within the stipulated time.
   
5. Stay Updated – Keep checking icai.org for updates regarding admit cards and centre guidelines.

Conclusion

The ICAI CA January 2026 exam schedule has provided much-needed clarity for students aiming to appear in the upcoming Foundation, Intermediate, and Final exams. With the exam dates now announced, aspirants should strengthen their revision strategy, attempt mock papers, and manage their time effectively. Timely registration, proper planning, and consistent practice can help candidates perform their best and move closer to becoming a Chartered Accountant in 2026.

Also read: Karnataka PGCET 2025 Counselling: Dates, Process, Eligibility & Seat Allotment

FAQs