The CA Foundation exam, conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, serves as the entry-level test for CA aspirants. For everyone who is planning to take the CA Foundation exam in January 2025, we have made this guide to provide them with all the necessary details about registration, fees, the required documents, and the entire process.
How to Register for the CA Foundation Exams in January 2025?
The registration process for the CA Foundation exam is a very important step that every aspiring CA must undertake. For the January 2025 exam, the last date to register is 1st September 2024. This deadline ensures that students have enough time to prepare for the exam.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register:
Steps for Registration:
- Visit the ICAI Website: The registration process begins on the official ICAI website icaiexam.icai.org or click here. Navigate to the student portal to start the registration.
- Generate OTP: Enter your basic details such as name, email address, and mobile number. Click on “Generate OTP.” An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number or email ID. This step ensures the authenticity of your contact details.
- Login Credentials: Once the OTP is validated, you will receive your login credentials via email or SMS. These credentials will be used for future logins to the ICAI portal.
- Student Cycle: Log in to the ICAI portal using the credentials provided. You will see two options; select “Student Cycle” on the left side of the dashboard.
- Apply for Foundation: Click on “Apply for Foundation” to access the registration form.
- Fill in the Details: The registration form will have some pre-filled details based on the information you provided earlier. Fill in the remaining details accurately, including your personal information, educational background, and contact details.
- Upload Documents: You will need to upload scanned copies of the required documents. Ensure these documents are clear and legible.
- Payment of Fees: The next step is the payment of registration fees. This can be done online through net banking, credit card, or debit card.
- Print and Post: After submitting the form and making the payment, print out the completed registration form. Attach the necessary documents and post them to the ICAI postal address if required.
- Verification and Confirmation: ICAI will verify your details and documents once you have completed all the steps. After successful verification, you will receive a confirmation email, including your registration number. This email serves as proof of your registration.
Once your registration is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email along with your registration number and other relevant details.
ICAI will dispatch the study material to your registered address via the Centralized Dispatch System (CDS), or if aspiring students are looking for live classes with expert instructors, interactive video lectures, comprehensive study materials, and live support visit Prime Video Lectures.
CA Foundation Course Held Thrice in a Year
ICAI has decided to conduct the CA Foundation exams three times a year, starting in May/June 2024, to provide greater flexibility and convenience to students. Previously, the exams were held twice a year, but the new schedule allows exams to be conducted in January, May/June, and September.
Benefits of the New Schedule:
- Increased Opportunities
Students now have more opportunities to appear for the exams within a year. This flexibility can help reduce the pressure of having only two attempts annually.
- Better Planning
With more exam sessions, students can better plan their preparation and timing of attempts. If a student is unable to clear the exam in one attempt, they can quickly reattempt in the next session without waiting too long.
- Study Period Management
The thrice-a-year schedule allows students to manage their study period more effectively, balancing their school or college education with CA preparation.
CA Foundation Registration Fees for Jan 2025 Exams
Understanding the fee structure for the CA Foundation registration is crucial for planning your finances. The ICAI CA Foundation registration fee for the Jan 2025 exams is Rs. 9800 for Indian students and $780 for US students. Students have to pay the fees online through net banking or credit/debit cards at the time of registration. Furthermore, the ICAI registration fee for the Foundation course is non-refundable.
Detailed Fee Structure:
Details | ICAI Fee for Indian Students (Rs) | ICAI Fee for Foreign Students ($) |
---|---|---|
Cost of Foundation Prospectus | Rs. 200 | $20 |
CA Foundation Registration Fees | Rs. 9000 | $700 |
Subscription for Student’s Journal (Optional) | Rs. 200 | $20 |
Subscription for Member’s Journal (Optional) | Rs. 400 | $40 |
Total | Rs. 9800 | $780 |
Special Concession:
ICAI has made an exception to the CA Foundation fees for students from certain regions. Students from the newly formed Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and the 8 Northeastern states are eligible for a 75% fee concession. This means that students from these regions need to pay only Rs. 2250.
For more information about CA Course Fees:
Payment Methods:
- Online Payment
The registration fees can be paid online through net banking, credit cards, or debit cards. Ensure you keep a copy of the payment receipt for future reference.
- Non-refundable
It’s important to note that the registration fees are non-refundable, so make sure you are certain about your decision to register before making the payment.
Documents Required for Registration
Having all the necessary documents ready is crucial for a smooth registration process. Here is a comprehensive list of documents you will need to upload during your registration:
List of Required Documents:
- Admit Card/Mark Sheet of Class 12th
A scanned copy of your 12th-grade mark sheet or admit card issued by your respective board.
- Coloured Photograph
A recent passport-sized coloured photograph of the candidate.
- Proof of Nationality
If you are a foreign student, you will need to provide proof of your nationality.
- Special Category Certificate
If applicable, a certificate proving your status in a special category such as ST/SC/OBC or differently-abled.
- Class 10th Mark Sheet/Admit Card
A scanned copy of your 10th-grade mark sheet or admit card indicating your name and date of birth.
Specifications for Documents:
- Photograph and Signature
The photograph should be a recent passport-sized coloured photo, and the signature should be scanned clearly.
- Document Format
Ensure all documents are scanned clearly and saved in the required format (typically PDF or JPEG).
- Size Limit
Each document should meet the size limit specified on the ICAI registration page to avoid upload issues.
Conclusion
Registering for the CA Foundation exam is the first step towards Chartered Accountancy. The January 2025 exam offers a great opportunity for students who will be appearing for the exam. By following the registration deadlines, completing the registration process accurately, and keeping all required documents ready, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free registration experience.
With ICAI’s decision to hold the exams thrice a year, students now have more flexibility and opportunities to succeed. This change allows for better planning and preparation, making it easier for students to manage their studies and exam schedules.
For more information and updates, keep an eye on the official ICAI website and consider joining a CA Foundation coaching class to enhance your preparation.