CA Exam Fees 2025 – All You Need to Know
If you’re gearing up for the Chartered Accountant (CA) journey, the first thing on your mind is probably the cost. The fees can feel hefty, but knowing exactly what you’re paying for makes budgeting a lot easier. In this guide we’ll walk through the current fee structure, how to pay, and a few simple tricks to keep the expense down.
Fee Breakdown for Each CA Level
The CA program is split into three main stages: CA Foundation, CA Intermediate and CA Final. Each stage has its own set of registration, examination and study material fees. Below is a quick snapshot of the 2025 rates set by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI):
- CA Foundation – Registration: ₹1,500, Exam fee: ₹2,200, Study material (optional): ₹1,000–₹1,500.
- CA Intermediate – Registration: ₹2,500, Exam fee: ₹3,500 (per group), Study material: ₹2,000–₹2,500.
- CA Final – Registration: ₹3,000, Exam fee: ₹4,500 (per group), Study material: ₹3,000–₹4,000.
Besides these core fees, you might need to budget for practical training (articleship) costs, software subscriptions and occasional revision classes. The total cost for the entire CA journey usually lands between ₹50,000 and ₹80,000 depending on the resources you choose.
How to Pay and Save on Your CA Exam Fees
Paying the fees is straightforward. ICAI accepts online payments through credit/debit cards, net banking and UPI. You can also pay at designated banks using a challan. Make sure you note the payment deadline – missing it means a late fee of ₹500 or even a rescheduled exam slot.
Here are a few practical ways to cut down on the out‑of‑pocket cost:
- Early bird discounts: ICAI sometimes offers a 5% reduction if you pay the registration fee at least a month before the official deadline.
- Group study material: Buying books with a study group can save up to 30% compared to buying individually.
- Free resources: ICAI’s official website provides free PDF notes and past exam papers. Use them before buying any paid material.
- Scholarships & loans: Many banks partner with coaching institutes to provide education loans at low interest rates. Check if you qualify for a merit‑based scholarship.
- Refund policy: If you withdraw from an exam before the cutoff date, ICAI refunds 70% of the exam fee. Plan your attempts carefully to avoid unnecessary payments.
Keep a spreadsheet of all fees, due dates and payment receipts. A clear record helps you avoid duplicate payments and makes it easier to claim refunds if needed.
Remember, the CA exam is an investment in your future. Understanding the fee structure, paying on time and using cost‑saving tips will keep the financial side from becoming a roadblock. Start planning today, and focus on what matters most – mastering the syllabus and passing the exams.
CA January 2026 Exam Datesheet Unveiled: Timetable, Fees & Registration Tips
ICAI has rolled out the complete January 2026 CA exam timetable covering Foundation, Intermediate and Final levels. Registration opens on November 3, 2025 with early and late fee deadlines. The schedule skips Jan 14 for major festivals and lists specific paper dates and durations. Fees range from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,700 per group, and a 40% per paper, 50% aggregate passing rule applies.