ICAI — The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India
What it means
ICAI is the statutory body established under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 to regulate the profession of chartered accountancy in India. It conducts the CA examinations, prescribes the curriculum, grants membership, issues accounting and auditing standards, and disciplines members.
Where you meet it in the CA course
Everywhere in your CA journey — registration, the Board of Studies material you study from, the exams you write, articleship regulation, and eventually your membership number.
Worked example
The letters 'CA' before a member's name and the suffix 'ACA' or 'FCA' denote associate or fellow membership of the ICAI.
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Talk to usIs ICAI a government body?
It is a statutory body created by an Act of Parliament, functioning under the administrative oversight of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs — autonomous in regulating the profession but accountable under its Act.
What is the difference between ACA and FCA?
ACA (Associate) is the initial membership grade; FCA (Fellow) is granted after five years of continuous practice or qualifying service as an associate.