The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has introduced a new scheme of education and training for aspiring chartered accountants. This new scheme aligns with international education standards and incorporates the guidelines of the National Education Policy, 2020 (NEP). The scheme, which will be implemented from July 1, 2023, aims to provide a comprehensive and globally recognized education and training framework for individuals pursuing a career in chartered accountancy. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of the new scheme and its implications for aspiring chartered accountants.
1. Entry Routes
Under the new scheme, there are two entry routes available for students who wish to pursue chartered accountancy:
A. Foundation Route
The foundation route is designed for students who have completed their Class X examination. The steps involved in this route are as follows:
i) Register with the Board of Studies (BOS) after passing the Class X examination.
ii) After a study period of four months and upon completion of the Class XII examination, students become eligible to appear for the June/December examination.
iii) Pass both the Class XII examination and the Foundation Examination to progress further.
B. Direct Entry Route
The direct entry route is available for candidates who meet certain eligibility criteria. These criteria include:
i) Commerce graduates/post-graduates must have secured a minimum of 55% marks, while graduates/post-graduates from non-commerce backgrounds should have a minimum of 60% marks.
ii) Candidates who have passed the intermediate level examination of the Institute of Cost Accountants of India or the Institute of Company Secretaries of India are also eligible.
iii) Undergraduates/postgraduates in the final year of their graduation/post-graduation can apply, provided they submit their final year mark sheets with the prescribed minimum marks.
2. Intermediate Course
After choosing an appropriate entry route, students can register for the Intermediate Course. This course involves the following steps:
i) After an eight-month study period, students can appear for the Intermediate Examination.
ii) Students must pass both groups of the Intermediate Examination to progress further.
iii) Before commencing practical training, students are required to complete the Integrated Course on Information Technology and Soft Skills (ICITSS).
3. CA Final Regitration and Practical Training
Once the Intermediate Course is completed, students can register for the CA Final and commence their practical training. The following requirements must be fulfilled:
i) Students need to complete and qualify the self-paced online modules.
ii) A two-year practical training period is mandatory.
iii) After completing the practical training, students must successfully complete the Advanced ICITSS before being eligible to appear for the Final Examination.
4. Final Examination
The Final Examination is the last step towards becoming a qualified Chartered Accountant. Here’s what it entails:
i) Students who have completed their practical training may apply for the Business Accounting Associate (BAA) Certificate while continuing to appear in the Final Examination.
ii) Passing both groups of the Final Examination is necessary to qualify as a Chartered Accountant.
iii) After qualifying, students can apply for membership of ICAI, thus officially becoming Chartered Accountants.
Important Dates
To ensure a smooth transition to the new scheme, the ICAI has provided important dates for registration and examinations. These dates are as follows:
| S. No. | Particulars | Date/ Attempt |
| 1. | Last date for Registration in Foundation under Existing Scheme | 1st July, 2023 |
| 2. | Last date for Registration in Intermediate and Final Courses under Existing Scheme | 30th June, 2023 |
| 3. | Date of commencement of Registration and Conversion in Foundation Course under New Scheme | 2nd August, 2023 |
| 4. | Date of commencement of Registration and Conversion in Intermediate and Final Courses under New Scheme | 1st July, 2023 |
| 5. | First Foundation Examination under New Scheme | June, 2024 |
| 6. | First Intermediate and Final Examination under New Scheme | May, 2024 |
| 7. | Last Foundation Examination under Existing Scheme | December, 2023 |
| 8. | Last Intermediate and Final Examination under Existing Scheme | November, 2023 |
| 9. | Last date of commencement of three years Practical Training | 30th June, 2023 |
| 10. | Date of commencement of two years uninterrupted Practical Training | 1st July, 2023 |
Conclusion
The new scheme of education and training introduced by the ICAI signifies a significant step towards aligning with international standards and the evolving educational landscape. By providing clear entry routes, structured courses, and practical training, the scheme aims to equip aspiring chartered accountants with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their profession. It is essential for individuals considering a career in chartered accountancy to familiarize themselves with the new scheme and adhere to the relevant registration and examination timelines.
ICAI Announcementd dated 23/06/2023: New Scheme of CA Education and Training from July 2023
ICAI Notification dated 21/06/2023: The Chartered Accountants (Amendment) Regulations 2023
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