The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially opened the registration window for the January 2026 examinations for its key courses: Foundation, Intermediate, and Final. Aspiring chartered accountants across India can now apply online through the ICAI portal. This announcement marks an important phase for thousands of students preparing to take their next step toward becoming a CA.
What the Registration Opening Means
When ICAI opens the registration window for an exam cycle like January 2026, it sets in motion the process for students to formally enter the program. Candidates must complete registration, ensure all eligibility criteria are met, and later submit the exam form as per the announced schedule. Missing the registration window or delaying the application can cause unnecessary stress or disqualification from appearing in the attempt.
With the January 2026 registration now active, students aiming for this session should register as early as possible. The move confirms ICAI’s timeline for the January session and allows candidates to align their studies, articleship commitments, and revision plans accordingly.
Key Dates and Deadlines
The registration process for the January 2026 attempt began on November 3, 2025. The last date to register without paying a late fee is November 16, 2025. Applications with an additional late fee will be accepted until November 19, 2025. These dates are critical for candidates to keep in mind, as any delay may affect their exam participation.
ICAI has already published the examination schedule for the Foundation, Intermediate, and Final levels. Having a fixed calendar allows students to create an effective study plan and stay on track for timely completion of syllabus and revisions.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Overview
Eligibility criteria depend on the stage of the CA program.
For the Foundation course, a student must have passed or be appearing in Class 12 or its equivalent.
For the Intermediate and Final courses, candidates must have cleared earlier levels, completed study modules, and satisfied other ICAI requirements such as articleship for Final-level students.
It is important to remember that registration is only the first step. Candidates will also have to fill in the exam form later when that window opens.
How to Register Online: Step-by-Step
The registration process is fully online through ICAI’s Self-Service Portal (SSP). Here are the steps:
- Visit the official ICAI website and navigate to the “Student Services” section.
- Log in or create a new account on the SSP portal.
- Fill in your personal, academic, and contact details in the registration form.
- Upload all required documents such as class 10 and 12 mark sheets, recent photograph, and signature.
- Pay the registration fee through the available online modes.
- Download and print the acknowledgment slip after successful submission.
Completing the registration early is always advisable to avoid issues like server overload or payment failures.
Fee Structure and Important Details
The registration fee depends on the course level. For the Foundation course, it is around Rs 9,000 for Indian students, excluding optional items like journals or membership fees. Intermediate and Final courses have higher fees, which vary depending on the number of groups a candidate chooses to appear for.
Candidates should budget for both the registration fee and the exam form fee, which must be paid separately later. Early registration not only ensures timely processing but also avoids extra costs due to late fees.
Preparation Tips for the January 2026 Attempt
Once registration is complete, the next step is preparing effectively. With the schedule already announced, candidates should begin structured study planning.
- Start your preparation by creating a realistic timetable.
- Dedicate time for each subject daily and include revision slots every few weeks.
- Enroll in mock tests to identify weak areas.
- For Intermediate and Final students, complete your articleship requirements and mandatory training programs in time.
- Keep all documents ready well before the exam form window opens.
Proper time management and consistent practice will be key to success in the January 2026 exam session.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Registration
Some common errors can create unnecessary complications during registration. Avoid these:
- Uploading unclear photographs or signatures.
- Waiting until the last day to apply, leading to website slowdowns or payment issues.
- Selecting the wrong course level or route (Foundation vs Direct Entry).
- Forgetting that registration and exam form submissions are two separate steps.
By staying alert and double-checking all details before submission, candidates can prevent these common issues.
What Happens After Registration
Once registration is approved, candidates officially become part of the ICAI system for their respective level. The next steps include:
- Applying for the exam when the exam form window opens.
- Receiving the admit card after verification of eligibility.
- Continuing with study and revision schedules as per the official syllabus.
- Completing any additional courses, e-learning, or orientation programs if applicable.
Tracking updates regularly on the ICAI website is crucial to stay informed about further announcements related to admit cards, corrections, or exam center details.
Why This Registration Matters
The ICAI CA course is one of the most prestigious professional programs in India. Registering early ensures that students are part of the upcoming attempt and can manage their articleship, training, and study workload without last-minute hurdles.
This registration window is especially significant for those targeting the January 2026 exam, as it allows ample time for preparation and completion of other mandatory tasks. Timely registration also ensures students are mentally prepared and can focus entirely on academics rather than administrative formalities.
Final Thoughts
The opening of the ICAI registration window for the January 2026 CA examination is a crucial opportunity for aspiring chartered accountants. It marks the beginning of a new phase in their journey. Candidates should act promptly, confirm their eligibility, gather necessary documents, and complete the registration process without delay.
Once registered, the focus should shift to disciplined study, regular revision, and confidence building. The CA course is rigorous, but with early planning and dedication, success is achievable.
Students aiming for the January 2026 attempt should seize this opportunity and move forward with a clear and organized plan. Register now, prepare well, and take one more step toward your dream of becoming a Chartered Accountant.