ICAI Releases Comprehensive Study Guidelines for CA May 2026 Examination

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has recently released the study guidelines for the CA May 2026 examinations. These guidelines are especially for Final Paper 5: Indirect Tax Laws, and they highlight the key provisions and amendments that will be applicable to the examination.

For the May 2026 exams, candidates must be aware of the provisions of the CGST Act, 2017 and the IGST Act, as amended by the Finance Act, 2025, including the notifications and circulars effective up to 31st October 2025. Similarly, the Customs Act, 1962 and the Customs Tariff Act, 1975, as amended by the Finance Act, 2025, are included in the syllabus.

ICAI also provided a list of topics that are excluded from the syllabus of the May 2026 examination. Students should not prepare the following areas:

- Case studies based on the rate of tax on supply of goods - Case studies based on the rate of tax on supply of services - Exemptions for supply of goods - Value of supply where Kerala Flood Cess is applicable - Manner of determination of input tax credit in respect of inputs, input services, and capital goods and reversal thereof in respect of real estate projects - Manner of reversal of credit of additional duty of customs in respect of gold dore bar - Transitional Provisions

For detailed information, candidates are advised to refer to the official guidelines provided by ICAI. This will ensure that they are well-prepared and focus on the relevant areas for the examination.

The ICAI is a statutory body established under an Act of Parliament, the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949. It is responsible for regulating the profession of Chartered Accountancy in India. The institute plays a crucial role in setting and maintaining professional standards, conducting examinations, and providing continuous education to its members.

Preparing for the CA exams can be a rigorous process, and having a clear understanding of the syllabus and guidelines is essential. Candidates are encouraged to stay updated with the latest notifications and to utilize the resources provided by ICAI to maximize their preparation efforts. By focusing on the key areas and avoiding the excluded topics, candidates can enhance their chances of success in the May 2026 examination.