The CA Intermediate Exam is the second major step on the road to becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA). After clearing the CA Foundation Exam, students must clear the CA Intermediate Exam to move to the final level. With the New Scheme now in effect for May 2026, the exam structure has undergone some significant changes. This updated blog will cover the new exam pattern, the subjects for each group, the exam format, and the passing criteria under the new rules.
What’s New for CA Intermediate Exam May 2026?
Under the New Scheme for May 2026, the CA Intermediate exam has been streamlined from 8 papers to just 6 papers. Here are the critical updates:
- 6 Papers: The exam is now divided into two groups, each with 3 papers, making it more concise and focused.
- Updated Subjects: Some subjects have been merged or removed, particularly in Group 1 and Group 2.
- Exam Format: The question paper format now follows a 70:30 split 30% Objective MCQs and 70% Subjective questions.
Let’s dive deeper into the CA Intermediate May 2026 exam pattern under the New Scheme.
CA Intermediate Exam Pattern May 2026 (New Scheme)
Group 1:
- Paper 1: Advanced Accounting (100 Marks)
This paper combines both Accounting and Advanced Accounting into a single comprehensive paper. Topics include partnership accounting, company accounts, financial statements, and consolidation.
- Paper 2: Corporate and Other Laws (100 Marks)
This paper covers Corporate Laws, including Company Law, Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP) Act, and other related laws such as the General Clauses Act, Interpretation of Statutes, and Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).
- Paper 3: Taxation (100 Marks)
This paper is divided into two sections:- Section A: Income Tax Law (50 Marks)
- Section B: Goods and Services Tax (GST) (50 Marks)
The taxation paper covers income tax law, GST, and customs laws. Students will have to solve both theoretical and practical questions in this subject.
- Section A: Income Tax Law (50 Marks)
Group 2:
- Paper 4: Cost and Management Accounting (100 Marks)
This paper focuses on cost accounting, budgeting, standard costing, and management accounting. It involves both theoretical concepts and numerical problem-solving.
- Paper 5: Auditing and Ethics (100 Marks)
The updated name for this paper is Auditing and Ethics, which focuses on auditing standards, principles, and the ethical framework for auditors in India and internationally.
- Paper 6: Financial Management and Strategic Management (100 Marks)
This paper is divided into two sections:- Section A: Financial Management (50 Marks)
- Section B: Strategic Management (50 Marks)
This paper covers financial management techniques and business strategy concepts, helping students understand how to manage business finances and make strategic decisions.
- Section A: Financial Management (50 Marks)
CA Intermediate May 2026 Exam Format (70:30 Split)
Each of the 6 papers now follows a 70:30 split between subjective and objective questions:
- 30% Objective: This part will consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and case scenarios, designed to test your ability to apply knowledge in practical scenarios. There’s no negative marking for incorrect answers.
- 70% Subjective: This section consists of descriptive questions where you must show a deeper understanding of the subject and solve problems in a detailed manner.
CA Intermediate Passing Criteria May 2026
The passing criteria for the CA Intermediate Exam is divided into group-wise and individual paper criteria. Here’s everything you need to know to pass the May 2026 exam:
- Minimum Marks Required:
- You need to score at least 40% marks in each paper.
- You also need a 50% aggregate in each group to pass that group.
- You need to score at least 40% marks in each paper.
- Permanent Exemption Rule:
One significant change in the passing criteria for May 2026 is the Permanent Exemption Rule. If you score 60 or more marks in any paper, you are exempted from that paper permanently. This means you do not need to appear for that paper in future attempts, as long as you maintain the 50% aggregate in the remaining papers. Previously, such exemptions were valid for three attempts, but now they are permanent under certain conditions.
- Revaluation and Verification:
If you are unhappy with your results, you can apply for revaluation or verification of your answer sheets through the ICAI portal after the results are announced.
Important Dates for CA Intermediate Exam May 2026
The May 2026 CA Intermediate exam has the following confirmed dates:
| Event | Date |
| Course Registration Deadline | January 1, 2026 (Closed) |
| Exam Form Submission (Without Late Fee) | March 3–16, 2026 (Closed) |
| Exam Form Submission (With Late Fee) | March 17–19, 2026 (Closed) |
| Correction Window | March 20–22, 2026 (Closed) |
| Admit Card Release | Last Week of April 2026 |
| CA Intermediate Exam Dates | May 3, 5, 7 (Group 1) |
| May 9, 11, 13 (Group 2) |
How to Prepare for the CA Intermediate Exam May 2026
- Understand the Syllabus: Get a thorough understanding of the updated syllabus and exam pattern. Focus on the 6 papers and the specific topics within each subject.
- Create a Study Schedule: Given the wide range of topics, create a structured study timetable that allows you to allocate time to each subject based on difficulty.
- Solve Past Papers and Mock Tests: Regularly practicing past papers and mock tests will help you understand the question format, manage time during exams, and boost your confidence.
- Stay Consistent: The key to cracking the CA Intermediate exam is consistency. Stick to your study routine, revise regularly, and stay focused on the goal.
Conclusion
The CA Intermediate exam is a vital step toward becoming a Chartered Accountant, and with the New Scheme in place for May 2026, it's essential to stay updated with the new syllabus, exam pattern, and criteria. By understanding the structure, preparing strategically, and staying disciplined in your studies, you’ll be well on your way to success.
Stay consistent, plan your study well, and focus on the subjects that matter most. Best of luck with your preparations for the CA Intermediate Exam May 2026 this is your chance to make your mark in the world of finance and accounting!
FAQs
The new syllabus includes 6 papers: Paper 1 (Advanced Accounting), Paper 2 (Corporate and Other Laws), Paper 3 (Taxation), Paper 4 (Cost and Management Accounting), Paper 5 (Auditing and Ethics), and Paper 6 (Financial Management and Strategic Management).
The CA Intermediate exam now follows a 70:30 split: 30% Objective MCQs and 70% Subjective questions. This change makes it easier to test both theoretical knowledge and practical problem-solving skills.
Under the new exemption rule, if you score 60 or more marks in any paper, you will be exempted from that paper permanently, as long as you maintain the 50% aggregate in the remaining papers.
The CA Intermediate admit card will be available for download in the last week of April 2026.
You need to score at least 40% in each paper and 50% aggregate in the group to pass. The new permanent exemption rule allows for exemptions in papers if you score 60 or more.
