The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) releases the CA Foundation Exam Format on its official website, icai.org. The exam pattern specifies the types of questions and amount of questions that will be asked, as well as the topics that will be covered, topic-by-topic weighting, marking system, and length of the exam.
CA Foundation Exam Pattern
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Particulars |
Details Of CA Foundation Exam |
|
Conducting Body |
The Institute Of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) |
|
Mode of Exam |
Online centre-based exams |
|
Exam Frequency |
Thrice in a year
|
|
Level of Examination |
National level |
|
Level of Difficulty |
Easy to Moderate |
|
Number of Papers/Subjects |
The CA Foundation exam includes FOUR subjects:
|
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Duration of Each Paper |
|
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Paper Type |
|
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Marks |
Each paper is of 100 marks. |
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Total Marks |
400 |
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Marking Scheme |
For subjective (Paper 1 and 2) – No negative marking For objective papers (Paper 3 and 4) – 0.25 mark will be deducted for every wrong answer. |
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Medium of Exam |
English/Hindi except for Paper 2 (section b which will be in English only) |
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Eligibility |
Class 12 Passed or Appearing for Class 12 in Current Year |
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Exemptions |
Candidates with Equivalent Qualification or Graduates and Post Graduates |
CA Foundation Subjects with Marks Distribution
| Papers | Subject Name | Marks Distribution |
|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Accounting | 100 Marks |
| Paper 2 | Business Laws | 100 Marks |
| Paper 3 |
Quantitative Aptitude Section A: Business Mathematics (40) |
100 Marks |
| Paper 4 | Business Economics | 100 Marks |
CA Foundation Passing Criteria
To pass the CA Foundation exam, candidates must:
- Score a minimum of 40% on each paper.
- Achieve a minimum of 50% in aggregate across all papers.
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ICAI CA Foundation Syllabus
The CA Foundation syllabus is structured to evaluate a candidate’s fundamental knowledge across key subjects essential for a career in Chartered Accountancy. It consists of four papers that cover Accounting, Business Laws, Mathematics, Logical Reasoning, Statistics, Business Economics, and Commercial Knowledge.
The syllabus is designed to test both conceptual clarity and problem-solving abilities, incorporating a mix of subjective and objective questions. Some papers focus on theory, while others test analytical and numerical abilities. This balanced approach ensures that aspiring CAs develop a strong foundation in financial and business principles, preparing them for the more advanced stages of the CA course.
To Download CA Foundation Syllabus, Click Here
CA Foundation Section-Wise Weightage:
Understanding the topic-wise weightage of the CA Foundation syllabus helps candidates focus on important areas while preparing for the exam. Based on past trends and ICAI guidelines, each subject has a specific weightage for different topics, ensuring a strategic approach to studying.
To Download CA Foundation Section-wise Weightage, Click Here
Quick Study Tips for CA Foundation
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- Know the Syllabus & Exam Pattern – Understand subject-wise weightage and focus on high-scoring topics.
- Make a Study Plan – Allocate 3-4 months, set daily targets, and balance conceptual learning with practice.
- Focus on Concepts – Avoid rote learning; use ICAI study material, flowcharts, and short notes.
- Practice & Revise – Solve past papers, attempt mock tests, and revise at least 3 times.
- Manage Time Well – Be mindful of negative markings in objective papers and write to-the-point answers in subjective ones.
- Use ICAI & Reference Books – Rely on ICAI material and trusted authors for better understanding.
- Stay Consistent & Motivated – Follow a disciplined routine, take breaks, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
For a Detailed Preparation Strategy for CA Foundation Exams, Click Here
With the right strategy and regular practice, you can clear the CA Foundation on your first attempt! 🚀
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Some FAQs:
1. Is there negative marking in Foundation Examination?
Yes, there is negative marking of 0.25 mark for every wrong answer in objective type papers.
2. When will I get the Study Material of the Foundation Course?
Study Material of Foundation Course by ICAI can be accessed from here. Hard copy of the Study Material by ICAI will be available for ordering on Centralized Distribution System (CDS) Portal upon confirmation of registration in Foundation Course.
3. How do I register for the CA Foundation exam?
Register online through the ICAI website by filling out the application form and paying the required fee. Registration must be done 9 months before the exam date.
4. Can I take the CA Foundation exam while pursuing my graduation?
Yes, you can appear for the CA Foundation exam while pursuing graduation, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.
Everything You Need to Know Before Registering for CA Foundation, Click Here
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