CA Registration Process 2026 for Foundation & Intermediate: ICAI SSP Course Guide

The CA registration process 2026 is the first and most crucial step for students entering the Chartered Accountancy course. With ICAI continuing its fully digital admission system through the Self-Service Portal (SSP), understanding the correct procedure, timelines, and documentation is essential for smooth enrollment in 2026.

This guide focuses strictly on course and stream-level registration details, aligned with ICAI rules applicable for 2026.

What Is the CA Registration Process 2026?

The registration process refers to the official enrollment conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for its three academic levels:

• CA Foundation

• CA Intermediate

• CA Final (Post-Intermediate)

  
  

For students after Class 12, registration begins with CA Foundation. Graduates can directly register for CA Intermediate under the Direct Entry Scheme. All registrations in 2026 are completed online via the ICAI SSP Portal.

ICAI Self-Service Portal (SSP) Explained (2026)

The ICAI SSP Portal is the centralized platform for all student lifecycle activities. In 2026, ICAI mandates Aadhaar-based verification and live photograph uploads for new registrations.

Key SSP Functions:

• Course registration and profile updates.

• Exam form submission.

• Document upload and verification.

• Ordering study material through the Centralized Distribution System (CDS).

CA Foundation Registration Process 2026 (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Create SSP Login

Visit the ICAI SSP portal and select "Student -> New Student Registration." Enter a valid email and mobile number to verify via OTP.

Step 2: Fill Personal & Academic Details

Input your name (as per Class 10/12 marksheet), DOB, and gender. You must provide details of your Class 12 board (whether appearing or passed).

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

• Class 10 marksheet (Mandatory).

• Class 12 marksheet OR Admit Card (for provisional registration).

• Aadhaar Card.

• Passport-size photograph (Live capture via SSP).

• Scanned signature.

Step 4: Pay CA Foundation Registration Fees

Category	Fee Amount
Indian Students	₹9,000
Foreign Students	US $700

Step 5: Confirmation (SRN)

Once verified, ICAI issues a Student Registration Number (SRN), which acts as your permanent identity for the course.

Provisional Registration Rules for 2026

Students appearing for Class 12 exams in 2026 can apply under provisional registration. However, the Class 12 result must be submitted to the SSP within 6 months of the declaration to regularize the registration.

CA Intermediate Registration Process 2026

Eligibility Streams

1. Foundation Route: Students who have qualified for the CA Foundation exam.

2. Direct Entry Route: Commerce graduates with $\ge 55\%$ or Non-commerce graduates with $\ge 60\%$ aggregate marks.

CA Intermediate Fees 2026

• Both Groups: ₹18,000

• Single Group: ₹13,000

Important Registration Deadlines for 2026

ICAI does not publish fixed registration cut-off dates years in advance. For 2026, students must follow these ICAI-compliant guidelines:

Important Note: Registration for CA courses generally closes 4–6 months before the relevant exam term. Under the New Scheme, CA Foundation exams are conducted in June and December.

• For June 2026 Foundation: Typically requires registration by February 1, 2026.

• For Dec 2026 Foundation: Typically requires registration by August 1, 2026.

  
  

All deadlines are subject to official ICAI notification. Students must regularly monitor the SSP dashboard.

FAQ: CA Registration Process 2026

1. What is the CA registration process 2026?

It is the digital enrollment procedure via the ICAI SSP portal for the Foundation, Intermediate, and Final courses.

2. Can I register for CA Foundation before passing Class 12 in 2026?

Yes, provisional registration is available for students appearing in their Class 12 board exams.

3. When are the CA Foundation exams held in 2026?

Under the New Scheme, exams are held twice a year, typically in June and December.

4. Is Aadhaar mandatory for registration?

Yes, Aadhaar-based verification is compulsory for Indian students for identity authentication.

5. How long is the Foundation registration valid?

CA Foundation registration is valid for 4 years. After this period, students must revalidate or progress to the Intermediate level.

Final Thoughts

The CA registration process 2026 is strictly digital and deadline-driven. By ensuring your documents are ready and your SSP profile is accurate, you can avoid delays in your journey toward becoming a Chartered Accountant.