CA Foundation Registration 2026: Last Dates, Fees, and New Scheme Guide

Quick Links: CMA Foundation Registration Guide | CSEET Registration Guide | CA vs CS vs CMA - Which is Right for You?

Missing your CA Foundation registration deadline doesn't just delay your exam - it pushes your entire CA journey back by months. With ICAI's mandatory 4-month study period, a late registration in January can mean sitting out until the September attempt. This guide gives you every date, fee, and step you need to register correctly, the first time.

What is CA Foundation?

The CA Foundation is the entry-level examination conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). It is the first milestone for students aspiring to become Chartered Accountants.

Eligibility Criteria

Provisional Registration: You can register as early as after passing your Class 10 exams.

Exam Eligibility: To sit for the exam, you must have appeared for or passed your Class 12 board exams.

Mandatory Study Period

Under the ICAI New Scheme, students must complete a mandatory 4-month study period after registration to be eligible for their chosen attempt. This is strictly enforced - plan your registration date with this window in mind.

Subjects of CA Foundation (New Scheme)

The curriculum consists of four papers designed to build a strong base in commerce, law, and quantitative skills:

Registration Fees & Important Dates

The registration fee is a one-time investment valid for 4 years (8 attempts):

Last Date for Registration (Attempt-Wise)

Documents Required for Registration

Keep scanned copies (JPEG/PDF) of these ready before starting the process:

• ◉Active Email ID and Mobile Number (for OTP)
• ◉Class 10 and Class 12 Marksheets (or Admit Card if appearing)
• ◉Passport Size Photo and Signature (clear scans)
• ◉Aadhaar Card or valid Government ID Proof
• ◉Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC/Differently Abled, if applicable)

How to Register: Quick 7-Step Process

1. 1.Visit Portal: Go to the ICAI SSP Portal at https://www.icai.org/
2. 2.New User: Click on 'First Time User' for New Student Registration.
3. 3.OTP Verification: Enter your details and verify via OTP sent to your phone and email.
4. 4.Login: Use the credentials sent to your email to log in to the Student Function.
5. 5.Apply: Select 'Course Registration' → 'Apply for Foundation'.
6. 6.Upload: Fill in personal and educational details and upload your documents.
7. 7.Payment: Pay the fee via UPI, Credit/Debit Card, or Net Banking.

CA vs CS vs CMA - Not Sure Which to Choose?

If you're still weighing your options between CA, CS, and CMA, you're not alone. Each course has a different career trajectory and level of difficulty. Before you register, it's worth spending 5 minutes on our comparison guide.

See: CA vs CS vs CMA - Which Professional Course is Right for You?.
Also read: CMA Foundation Registration 2026 - Dates, Fees & Complete Guide.
Also read: CSEET Registration 2026 - New Syllabus, Centre-Based Exam & Fees.