The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially postponed the remaining papers of the Chartered Accountant (CA) Final, Intermediate, and Post Qualification Course Examinations, originally scheduled from May 9 to May 14, 2025. This decision comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, which have prompted concerns regarding safety and security across the country.
In a notification issued on May 9, 2025, under the reference No. 13-CA (EXAM)/2025/II, ICAI stated that this postponement is a partial modification of its earlier announcement made on January 13, 2025. The official notice reads, "In view of the tense and security situation in the Country, the remaining papers of Chartered Accountants Final, Intermediate and Post Qualification Course Examinations [International Taxation – Assessment Test (INTT AT)] May 2025 from 9th May 2025 to 14th May 2025, stand postponed. The revised dates will be announced in due course."
The exams affected include the CA Final Group I, which had been set for May 2, 4, and 6, and Group II, scheduled for May 8, 10, and 13. The CA Intermediate Group I exams occurred on May 3, 5, and 7, while Group II was planned for May 9, 11, and 14. The postponement specifically affects all candidates appearing for these examinations, including those taking the International Taxation – Assessment Test, which is part of the Post Qualification Course.
ICAI has advised candidates to stay updated by regularly checking their official website, www.icai.org, for any announcements regarding the revised examination dates. The postponement reflects the institute's commitment to ensuring the safety of its candidates amid the ongoing security concerns.
This situation is not isolated to the ICAI exams. Reports indicate that educational institutions across several regions, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan, have also suspended classes and examinations in response to the heightened tensions. Schools in these areas have been ordered to remain closed until further notice, as local authorities prioritize student safety.
Authorities have heightened security measures, including the cancellation of police leave and increased vigilance in various districts. The decision to postpone exams was made following careful consideration of the current geopolitical climate and its potential impact on students and examination logistics.
As the ICAI prepares to announce new dates for the postponed examinations, the academic community remains hopeful that these changes will accommodate the needs of students while ensuring their safety. The revised schedule is expected to be released in the coming weeks, allowing candidates to prepare accordingly.
In the meantime, the ICAI CA Foundation course examinations, which are separate from the Final and Intermediate exams, are set to proceed as planned. These exams will take place according to the original schedule, providing some continuity for students in the program.
Additionally, the ICAI has confirmed that the May 2025 examinations will be conducted in several overseas locations, including Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Thimphu (Bhutan), Doha, Dubai, Kathmandu (Nepal), Kuwait, Muscat, and Riyadh (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia). Candidates in these locations will also be affected by the postponement, and they are encouraged to monitor the situation closely.
While the postponement of the CA exams may cause inconvenience for many students, it underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and security in the face of uncertain circumstances. As tensions between India and Pakistan continue to evolve, the ICAI's decision reflects a broader commitment to the welfare of its students.
In conclusion, the ICAI's announcement to postpone the CA May 2025 examinations is a significant development that highlights the intersection of education and security in times of crisis. As students await further updates, the focus remains on ensuring a safe environment for all candidates involved.
