The ICAI CA exams are crucial milestones for aspiring Chartered Accountants. In 2026, the ICAI is continuing with its updates and changes to improve the structure and accessibility of the exam system. This blog provides an in-depth guide for the ICAI CA exam dates for May, September, and November 2026, along with registration fees, admit card details, and the application process.
For CA aspirants, understanding these details is essential to plan for the exams and avoid last-minute hassles. Whether you're preparing for Foundation, Intermediate, or Final, this guide will help you stay on track and optimize your chances of success.
Key Takeaways:
- Updated exam schedule for May, September, and November 2026 sessions
- Self-Paced Online Modules (SPOM) and deadlines for November 2026 aspirants
- Registration fees for Indian and international students
- SSP portal login details and step-by-step application process
ICAI CA Exam Dates 2026: May, September & November Sessions
The ICAI CA exams will be held three times a year for Foundation and Intermediate levels (May, September, and November), while Final exams remain twice a year (May and November). Here are the key dates for 2026:
CA May 2026 Exam Dates:
- CA Foundation Exam: May 14, 16, 18, 2026
- CA Intermediate Exam:
- Group 1: May 3, 5, 7, 2026
- Group 2: May 9, 11, 13, 2026
- CA Final Exam:
- Group 1: May 2, 4, 6, 2026
- Group 2: May 8, 10, 12, 2026
- Exam Timing: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM IST (Indian Standard Time)
CA September 2026 Exam Dates:
Since ICAI is now conducting exams three times a year for Foundation and Intermediate, the September 2026 session will include the following tentative dates:
- CA Foundation: September 2026 (specific dates to be announced)
- CA Intermediate:
- Group 1: September 2026 (tentative dates: September 5, 7, 9, 2026)
- Group 2: September 2026 (tentative dates: September 12, 14, 16, 2026)
CA November 2026 Exam Dates (Tentative):
- CA Final Exam: Likely Nov 1, 3, 5 (Group 1) and Nov 7, 9, 11 (Group 2)
- CA Intermediate Exam: Likely Nov 2, 4, 6 (Group 1) and Nov 8, 10, 12 (Group 2)
- Exam Timing: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM IST (Indian Standard Time)
Note: These dates are tentative and will be confirmed closer to the session. Be sure to check the official ICAI website for updates.
ICAI CA Exam Fees 2026 for Indian and International Students
The ICAI exam fees have been revised for 2026, and it is essential to keep track of these updates. Here is the breakdown of the fees for Indian students as well as international students.
CA Foundation May & November 2026 Fees:
| Level | Indian Students (INR) | US/International Students (USD) |
| Registration Fee | 9,800 | $350 |
| Exam Form Fee | 1,500 | $50 |
| Total Fees | 11,300 | $350 |
CA Intermediate May & November 2026 Fees:
| Level | Indian Students (INR) | US/International Students (USD) |
| Both Groups | 20,700 | $500 |
| Exam Form Fee | 2,700 | $75 |
| Total Fees | 20,700 | $500 |
CA Final May & November 2026 Fees:
| Level | Indian Students (INR) | US/International Students (USD) |
| Both Groups | 25,300 | $600 |
| Exam Form Fee | 3,300 | $100 |
| Total Fees | 25,300 | $600 |
Self-Paced Online Modules (SPOM): Deadline for November 2026 Aspirants
Under the ICAI New Scheme (effective from May 2024), candidates are required to complete the Self-Paced Online Modules (SPOM) before sitting for the exam. For November 2026 aspirants, the SPOM Sets A & B (and sometimes C & D) must be completed ideally by September 10, 2026, to avoid last-minute portal glitches.
- SPOM Completion Deadline: September 10, 2026
- How to Access SPOM: Log in to the ICAI LMS portal and complete the online modules to gain eligibility for the exam.
ICAI CA Exam 2026: Application Process and SSP Portal
The application process for ICAI CA exams is done via the Self-Service Portal (SSP), a user-friendly platform for students to manage their exam-related tasks. Here’s how to apply for the May 2026 and November 2026 exams:
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the ICAI SSP Portal: Go to www.icai.org and log in to the SSP Portal using your credentials.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Select your level (Foundation, Intermediate, Final) and fill in your personal details.
- Upload Documents: Upload your photograph and signature, and make sure to update your profile photo and signature on the SSP portal before the exam window opens.
- Select Exam Center: Choose your preferred exam center from the available options.
- Pay Fees: Make the online payment using debit/credit cards or net banking.
- Submit the Form: After submission, you will receive a confirmation and acknowledgment receipt.
- Download Admit Card: The admit card will be available for download two weeks before the exam date.
Timeline of Mandatory Compliance for ICAI CA May & November 2026 Aspirants
Here’s a timeline of mandatory compliance to help you stay on track and avoid missing any deadlines:
| Task | Deadline |
| Register for SPOM (Sets A & B) | September 10, 2026 (Nov 2026) |
| Articleship Completion | Minimum 2 years (for Inter) |
| CA Foundation Registration | January 1, 2026 |
| CA Intermediate Registration | 9 months before the exam |
| CA Final Registration | 2.5 years before the exam |
Conclusion
The ICAI CA Exam May & November 2026 sessions will be here before you know it. By staying on top of the exam schedule, registration fees, and mandatory SPOM completion deadlines, you can make sure you’re fully prepared for the ICAI CA exams.
With the added flexibility of the three-exam-per-year cycle for Foundation and Intermediate exams, this is an excellent opportunity to pace your progress. Stay ahead with early registration, manage your study plan effectively, and prepare for success!
Good luck with your preparation, and don’t forget to check the official ICAI website for the latest updates!
FAQs
The ICAI CA exams for May 2026 will take place from May 2 to May 18, 2026. For the November 2026 session, tentative dates for Foundation, Intermediate, and Final exams will be announced closer to the time.
The SPOM Sets A & B for November 2026 aspirants must be completed by September 10, 2026, to ensure eligibility for the exam.
You can apply for the ICAI CA exams through the SSP portal on the ICAI website. Make sure to complete the application, upload necessary documents, pay the fees, and download your admit card.
For CA Foundation, the fees are ₹11,300, for CA Intermediate (both groups) ₹20,700, and for CA Final (both groups) ₹25,300 for Indian students. International students will have slightly higher fees in USD.
