The CA Foundation Exam is the entry-level examination for the Chartered Accountancy course in India. It is conducted twice a year, in June and December, by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). The exam is divided into four papers:
Overview
Each paper is of 100 marks and is 3 hours long. To pass the exam, candidates must secure a minimum of 40% marks in each paper and an aggregate of 50% marks in all papers.
Eligibility Criteria
The CA Foundation Exam Eligibility Criteria are as follows:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates must have passed the Class 12 examination from a recognized educational institute with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate.
- Age Limit: There is no age limit for appearing in the CA Foundation Exam.
Candidates who are appearing in Class 12 can also register for the CA Foundation Exam, but their admission will be provisional and will be regularized only after they clear Class 12 with the required minimum marks.
Here are some additional points about the CA Foundation Exam Eligibility Criteria:
- There is no restriction on the stream of education in Class 12. Candidates from any stream can apply for the CA Foundation Exam.
- Candidates who have passed the Class 12 examination from a foreign board must get their qualification certified by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) before applying for the CA Foundation Exam.
- Candidates who have qualified through vocational courses or other equivalent examinations may also be eligible for the CA Foundation Exam, but they should check with the ICAI for specific requirements.
Exam Pattern
| Paper | Type | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Principles and Practice of Accounting | Subjective | 100 | 3 hours |
| Business Laws and Business Correspondence and Reporting | Subjective | 100 | 3 hours |
| Business Mathematics, Logical Reasoning and Statistics | Objective | 100 | 3 hours |
| Business Economics and Business and Commercial Knowledge | Objective | 100 | 3 hours |
Application Process
Steps to apply for the CA Foundation Exam:
- Visit the ICAI website and click on the “Self Service Portal” link.
- Log in to the portal with your ICAI registration number and password.
- Click on the “Exam Functions” tab and select the “Exam Enrolment Form” option.
- Select the “Foundation Exam” option and click on the “Next” button.
- Fill in the required details in the exam application form.
- Upload your scanned photograph and signature.
- Review the information and click on the “Submit” button.
- Pay the exam application fee online.
Once you have submitted your exam application form, you will receive a confirmation email. You can download your admit card from the ICAI Self Service Portal a few days before the exam.
Syllabus
Here is a list of the topics covered in the CA Foundation Exam syllabus:
Paper 1: Principles and Practice of Accounting
- Theoretical Framework
- Accounting Process
- Bank Reconciliation Statements
- Inventories
- Concept and accounting of Depreciation
- Plant and Machinery
- Debtors and Creditors
- Investment Accounting
- Insurance Claims
- Final Accounts of Sole Proprietorship
- Final Accounts of Partnership
Paper 2: Business Laws and Business Correspondence and Reporting
- Indian Contract Act, 1872
- Sale of Goods Act, 1930
- Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881
- Partnership Act, 1932
- The Companies Act, 2013
- Business Correspondence and Reporting
Paper 3: Business Mathematics, Logical Reasoning and Statistics
- Business Mathematics
- Logical Reasoning
- Statistics
Paper 4: Business Economics and Business and Commercial Knowledge
- Business Economics
- Business and Commercial Knowledge
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Foundation Registration Last Date | July 1, 2023 |
| CA Foundation Exam Form | August 2 to August 23, 2023 |
| CA Foundation Exam Date Dec 2023 | December 31, 2023, January 2, 4, & 6, 2024 |
| CA Foundation Admit Card | October, 2023 |
Tips for Exam Preparation
- Understand the syllabus: The first step is to familiarize yourself with the CA Foundation syllabus. This will help you to understand the topics that you need to cover and the weightage of each topic.
- Create a study schedule: Once you know the syllabus, you can create a study schedule. Make sure to allocate enough time to each subject and revise regularly.
- Use the right study materials: There are a variety of study materials available for the CA Foundation Exam. Choose materials that are well-written and comprehensive.
- Join a study group: Joining a study group can be a great way to stay motivated and learn from others. You can discuss difficult concepts and share study tips.
- Practice mock tests: Practicing mock tests is one of the best ways to prepare for the CA Foundation Exam. This will help you to get used to the format of the exam and identify any areas where you need to improve.
- Take care of yourself: It is important to take care of yourself during the exam preparation period. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly.
FEES
| Category | Fees (INR) | Late Fee (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Students | 1500 | 600 |
| Kathmandu Students | 2200 | 600 |
| International Students | 325 | 10 |
FAQ?
To be eligible for the CA Foundation Exam, you must have passed Class 12 or equivalent from a recognized board. There is no age limit for the exam.
You can register for the CA Foundation Exam online on the ICAI website. The registration process is usually open from January to July for the November exam and from August to December for the May exam.
The CA Foundation Exam is divided into four papers, each of 100 marks and 3 hours long. The exam is conducted in both English and Hindi.
Paper 1: Principles and Practice of Accounting
Paper 2: Business Laws and Business Correspondence and Reporting
Paper 3: Business Mathematics, Logical Reasoning and Statistics
Paper 4: Business Economics and Business and Commercial Knowledge
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