Chartered Accountancy (CA) is one of the highest-recognized and sought-after careers within finance and accounting, making an impactful statement about our society today. Starting on this path begins with passing the CA Foundation exam, an essential first step on that journey toward becoming a CA. For the 2024 attempt, the CA Foundation Exam Pattern has undergone some adjustments. Hence, aspiring CA must possess all of the details.
About The CA Foundation Exam
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) conducts the CA Foundation exam twice each year. So, this is an entry-level test to evaluate candidates in four fundamental subjects. Each subject carries 100 marks; here are its highlights below:
| CA Foundation Exam Pattern 2024 Overview | |
| Exam Name | CA Foundation Exam |
| Conducting Body | Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) |
| Exam Mode | Offline |
| Frequency | Twice a year (June and December) |
| Exam Level | National level |
| Medium of Exam | English/ Hindi |
| Number of Papers | 4 |
| Full marks | 400 |
Important Dates About The CA Foundation Exam
The CA Foundation exam 2024 takes place twice annually, during June and December. However, the first CA Foundation exam as per this new scheme will commence in June 2024, and below are important dates for your reference:
| CA Foundation 2024 Important Dates | |
| Events | June 2024 dates |
| Exam form Availability | February 02, 2024 |
| Deadline to fill out the exam form without a late fee | February 23, 2024 |
| Deadline for filling out the exam form 2024 with late fee (of Rs. 600) | March 02, 2024 |
| Correction window | March 3 to 9, 2024 |
| Admit card | Around 10 days before the exam |
| CA Foundation 2024 exam date | 20, 22, 24, 26, June, 2024 |
| CA Foundation result | July 2024 (expected) |
Candidates must remember these dates and must complete the CA Foundation Exam Form before the deadline, or else they won’t be able to appear for the exam.
CA Foundation Exam Pattern 2024
| CA Foundation Exam Pattern 2024 | |
| Exam | Offline Pen and Paper-based |
| Question Types | 1 and 2: Subjective3 and 4: Objective |
| Exam Duration | 1 and 2: 3 hours3 and 4: 2 hours |
| Medium of Exam | English/ Hindi |
| Number of Papers | 4 |
| Total Marks | Total 400 (100 for each paper) |
| Negative Marking for the incorrect answers | Papers 1 and 2: NoPaper 3 and 4: 0.25 mark deduction |
ICAI Foundation 2024 Syllabus
An important part of the CA Foundation Exam Pattern is understanding the syllabus. ICAI issued the new syllabus for the CA Foundation course on 1st July 2023. Moreover, the first exam under the new scheme will take place in June 2024. Here is the list of subjects:
| Paper 1 | Principles and Practice of Accounting |
| Paper 2 | Business Laws and Business Correspondence and Reporting |
| Paper 3 | Business Mathematics, Logical Reasoning and Statistics |
| Paper 4 | Business Economics and Business and Commercial Knowledge |
Preparation Strategies For The CA Foundation Exam 2024
1. Focus on Building an Excellent Conceptual Foundation in Each Subject:
Focusing on developing an excellent conceptual understanding in every subject will not only assist with answering theoretical questions but also aid with solving practical ones. Understanding underlying principles will not only aid students but also aid with solving practical issues. Joining a coaching like VSI Jaipur can help strengthen your exam preparation.
2. Strategic Time Allocation:
Strategic time allocation is important both for preparing and clearing the exams. Students have four months of exam preparation. Hence, they must utilize this time period effectively to score well. Another important thing is to practice well enough to complete the entire question paper in three hours. Students often face challenges when completing the entire question paper. Hence, they must make it a point to allocate sufficient time to each question while mastering time management to complete and revise the entire paper.
3. Prioritize Weak Areas:
Take steps to strengthen any weak areas by allocating more time for subjects or topics you find challenging in your study plan, prioritizing those you find weakest. Strengthening weaknesses is vital for overall exam success!
4. Referring to ICAI Study Material:
Consult the official study material by the ICAI. Its coverage aligns closely with your examination syllabus; add to it as necessary with reference books if needed. The ICAI’s material also offers different study materials, including RTPs, MTPs, and more.
5. Create Concise Notes:
While studying, create concise yet useful short notes that can serve as quick revision material in the last days before an exam. Make these concise yet useful notes without distorting their essential message.
6. Maintain a Positive Attitude and Manage Stress:
You must remain positive throughout your exam preparation journey. Use relaxation techniques such as meditation to manage any tension that builds up over time; this helps ensure a stress-free journey ahead.
7. Take Regular Breaks:
Breaks are vital in maintaining concentration and avoiding burnout, so take small breaks during study sessions to refresh and rejuvenate. Engaging in physical activity or taking a quick stroll could prove immensely useful in revitalizing the mind.
Conclusion
The CA Foundation Exam 2024 is an all-encompassing examination that tests candidates on various subjects. Aspiring CAs should approach this important exam with an organized preparation strategy. Understanding its structure, utilizing effective study techniques, and keeping current with pertinent topics are crucial elements to their success and positioning themselves for a rewarding CA career ahead.
