ICAI CA Exam 2026: ICAI announces new date for postponed CA Intermediate Auditing exam

ICAI CA Exam

• ICAI reschedules CA Intermediate Paper 5 to January 31, 2026
• Admit cards remain valid for the new exam date
• CA Foundation exams will proceed as originally scheduled

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The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially announced the revised schedule for the postponed CA Intermediate Examination, Paper 5 (Auditing and Ethics). This update follows the institute's abrupt postponement announcement on January 17, 2026, which left thousands of candidates awaiting clarity.

As per the latest notification released today, the Auditing and Ethics paper (Group II, Paper 5), originally slated for January 19, 2026 (Monday), will now be conducted on January 31, 2026 (Saturday).

The examination will be held across all centers in India and abroad. ICAI has confirmed that the test will take place at the same examination center and during the same time slot (2:00 PM to 5:00 PM IST) as originally planned.

Validity of Admit Cards and Exam Conditions

In a relief for aspirants, the institute has stated that the admit cards already issued will remain valid for the new date. Candidates do not need to download fresh hall tickets.

ICAI has also emphasized a strict "no change" policy regarding the new schedule. The exam will proceed as planned on January 31, even if the date is declared a public holiday by the Central Government, any State Government, or local authorities.

Clarity on Other Examinations

Providing much-needed clarification, the announcement confirms that the remaining papers of the CA Foundation January 2026 examination will be held as per the original schedule on January 20, 22, and 24, 2026. This confirmation aims to prevent uncertainty among Foundation-level students.

Advice to Candidates

The institute has advised all affected Intermediate candidates to carefully note the revised date and stay updated through the official ICAI website, www.icai.org, for any further communications.

The postponement and subsequent rescheduling have highlighted the critical need for timely and clear communication during high-stakes professional examination cycles. With the new date set for the end of the month, candidates now have additional time to prepare for the crucial Auditing and Ethics paper.