Are you planning to sit for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) CA exams in January 2026? Registration officially opens on Monday, November 3, 2025, and this cycle covers the Foundation, Intermediate, and Final level exams.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the registration, deadlines, fees, and preparation with minimal stress.
How to Apply for CA Exams
- Visit the official website at icai.org and locate the registration link for the January 2026 attempt.
- Log in or create your account, and choose the course level (Foundation / Intermediate / Final).
- Fill out the required details — personal info, educational qualification, and upload scanned documents.
- Complete the payment of the exam registration fee (varies by level/course).
- Submit and download/print the confirmation receipt for your records.
 Schedule & Important Dates
- Registration opens: November 3, 2025.
- Last date to register and pay fees: (Candidates must check the official ICAI notice for the exact deadline).
- Exam window: For the January 2026 session, the schedule has been released — exams start early January.
Fees & Other Financial Details
Fees differ depending on the level (Foundation, Intermediate, Final) and your category (General / SC/ST / PwD). Make sure to pay the correct fee and, if required, the late-fee option before deadlines pass.
Why Early Registration for ICAI CA January 2026 Could Be Your Smartest Move Yet
- Third attempt option: With ICAI offering three attempts per year (January, May, September) for many levels, the January window gives flexibility.
- Early registration advantage: Students registering early can plan a better study timeline, books, coaching, and exam-centre logistics.
- Change in competition dynamics: January attempts tend to have newer candidates, which may affect competition patterns, so securing your registration early ensures you’re locked into the cycle.
- Administrative readiness: Registering in November means you’ll receive official communications (admit cards, centre allotment) earlier into the new year — reducing last-minute hassle.
Smart Registration Checklist
- Mark November 3 in your calendar and plan to register on Day 1 — the system tends to see heavy traffic.
- Get your documents ready: class-12 certificate (for Foundation), graduation certificate (if applicable for Intermediate/Final), identity proof, photograph & signature.
- Check your eligibility: For the Final level, articleship completion, required training modules, etc.
- Decide which level you’re attempting and prepare your study plan accordingly.
- Once registered, continue focusing on thorough preparation—registration is just the first milestone.
Keep in Mind: Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the last date and having to pay a heavy late fee.
- Uploading incorrect documents or a mismatched name/roll number can cause verification issues.
- Ignoring eligibility details, e.g., articleship status, prior training modules, which may block your exam attempt.
- Scheduling conflicts or failing to plan logistics because registration was left too late.
 In conclusion opening of registration for the CA January 2026 session is your ticket to moving ahead in the chartered-accountancy journey. The earlier you complete the step, the smoother your next months become — from study plans to exam day logistics. Act proactively, check the official details carefully, and ensure your registration is firmly in place.
