Is ICAI Getting Tougher? Analyzing Pass Percentages Since 2020

The Chartered Accountancy (CA) exam has always been known for its intensity, rigorous standards, and low pass rates. But in recent years, there’s been a growing concern among students and even educators—Is the ICAI making the CA Exam tougher than ever before?

From fluctuating pass percentages to revised exam patterns, aspirants are finding it increasingly challenging to navigate the CA journey. For students just starting out, choosing the right CA Foundation coaching has never been more important, especially in a landscape that feels increasingly demanding.

In this article, we’ll break down the pass percentage trends since 2020, look into possible reasons behind the perceived toughness, and provide a helpful perspective on how to prepare better for what lies ahead.

CA Exam Pass Percentage Trends Since 2020

Let’s begin by looking at actual data. The numbers speak volumes about how things have changed:

CA Foundation Pass Percentages:

• Nov 2020: ~35%

• Dec 2021: ~30%

• Dec 2022: ~25%

• June 2023: ~24%

• Dec 2023: ~22%

• June 2024: ~21%
  
  

CA Intermediate (Group I + II):

• Nov 2020: ~23%

• Dec 2021: ~17%

• May 2022: ~14%

• Nov 2022: ~12%

• May 2023: ~10.3%

• Nov 2023: ~9.8%

CA Final (Group I + II):

• Nov 2020: ~14%

• May 2022: ~11%

• Nov 2022: ~9.4%

• May 2023: ~8.6%

• Nov 2023: ~7.9%

The steady decline in pass percentages paints a clear picture—yes, the CA Exam has become more difficult in terms of results, if we consider statistics alone.

Is ICAI Really Making It Tougher?

While it's tempting to conclude that ICAI is simply making the exam more difficult, the reality is nuanced. Here's what might actually be happening behind the scenes:

1. Increased Focus on Conceptual Clarity

ICAI has been consistently emphasizing that students must move beyond rote learning. Papers today demand conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and application-based answers. This shift automatically filters out candidates who rely solely on memory or outdated study techniques.

2. New Syllabus and Pattern Changes

The introduction of the new CA curriculum, especially post-2023, brought major changes:

• MCQs now form a higher portion of papers.

• Case studies and scenario-based questions are common.

• Elective papers at the CA Final level require interpretation, not just knowledge recall.

These changes reflect ICAI’s attempt to modernize the profession—but for students unprepared for this shift, it feels like the exam is suddenly far tougher.

3. More Competition, Higher Standards

The number of students enrolling in the CA course has increased post-pandemic, leading to greater competition. ICAI has always maintained high standards, but the filtering process now feels more intense due to sheer numbers.

Does Low Pass Percentage Mean Lower Quality of Students?

Not necessarily. One of the biggest misconceptions is that a drop in pass rates reflects a weaker batch of students. But in most cases, it's more about:

• Mismatch in preparation strategy vs. exam expectations

• Poor time management or burnout

• Choosing the wrong study material or not practicing enough mock tests

The ICAI isn’t randomly making things harder—it is ensuring only those with the right skills and mindset make it through. In some ways, the challenge is fair—but only if you understand how to beat the system.

The Psychological Impact of Declining Pass Rates

Students today are under more pressure than ever. With so much content on social media showcasing toppers, rankers, and study influencers, many students feel demotivated if they don’t clear on the first attempt.

This mental toll has become a hidden cost of the CA Exam. The fear of failure has caused many to either delay attempts or drop out entirely.

That’s why having structured support—like a focused CA Foundation coaching program or a mentor group—can help reset your strategy and mental strength.

How to Beat the System: Actionable Advice

Even if the exam is tougher, thousands of students still clear it every year. So what are they doing differently?

1. Quality Over Quantity

Don’t fall into the trap of studying 12+ hours a day just for the sake of it. What matters is how efficiently you grasp and retain concepts. Focus on high-quality study blocks, not marathon sessions.

2. Focus on ICAI Study Material

ICAI has consistently tested concepts from its own material. Whether it’s RTPs, MTPs, or case law booklets, your first reference should always be official content. Rankers often revise the ICAI material at least 4–5 times.

3. Adapt to the New Pattern

MCQs and case-based questions require a different approach:

• Practice past 5 exams thoroughly.

• Focus on logic, not mugging up.

• Simulate real exam conditions while writing mocks.

4. Use Analytics for Self-Evaluation

Many smart aspirants now use performance tracking tools, apps, and AI-based analytics to measure their weekly improvements. Know your weak areas early and work to fix them systematically.

5. Take Care of Mental Health

Burnout is real. Weekly breaks, digital detox, and talking to peers or mentors can help you stay motivated. You don’t need to isolate yourself to clear the CA Exam.

Is It Worth It in the End?

This is perhaps the most important question. With increasing difficulty and declining pass percentages, many aspirants wonder if CA is even worth pursuing.

Let’s look at what you gain:

• A globally respected designation

• A license to audit and practice independently

• Career options in Big 4s, top corporates, and international firms

• A stable, high-growth career path with lifelong credibility

So yes, it’s hard. But it’s also worth it.

You just need to understand that the CA Exam today is not just about “how much you know” but “how well you apply what you know under pressure.”

Final Thoughts: Adapt, Don’t Panic

Is ICAI getting tougher? Absolutely. Expectations have risen, and the evaluation process is more demanding than before. You can’t just rely on rote memorization now; there’s a clear shift toward concept-based learning.

That said, it’s not an insurmountable challenge. With a solid grasp of the foundational concepts and a supportive study environment, success is still within reach.

For newcomers, selecting strong CA Foundation coaching early on is genuinely crucial. The right guidance can help you adapt to the changes and put you on a solid path toward clearing the exams.