Applying for ICAI Membership
The final step: converting a cleared CA Final into ICAI membership, and choosing between an Associate membership and a Certificate of Practice.
- Prerequisite
- Final cleared
- Grade
- ACA
- Optional
- CoP
- Renewal
- Annual
Step by step
- 01
Complete all training requirements
Practical training and the prescribed courses must be fully completed and certified before the membership application can be processed.
- 02
Apply for Associate membership
Submit the prescribed membership form through the portal with the completion certificates and pay the membership fee. On enrolment you become an Associate Chartered Accountant.
- 03
Decide on a Certificate of Practice
A CoP is required to practise publicly and sign audit reports. Members in employment generally do not hold one — and holding a CoP restricts certain forms of employment.
- 04
Maintain your membership
Membership and any CoP require annual renewal, and members must meet continuing professional education requirements as notified.
Documents you will need
- CA Final pass certificate
- Practical training completion certificate
- Certificates for all prescribed training courses
- Membership application form in the prescribed format
- Photograph and signature in prescribed formats
What usually goes wrong
- Applying before the training completion certificate is issued
- Taking a Certificate of Practice without checking its employment restrictions
- Missing annual renewal and allowing membership to lapse
- Overlooking continuing professional education requirements
Next steps
Have questions?
Find answers.
Still unsure about something? We're happy to help you figure it out.
Talk to usWhat is the difference between ACA and FCA?
ACA is Associate membership, granted on enrolment. FCA is Fellow membership, available after completing the prescribed period of continuous membership and meeting the notified conditions.
Do I need a Certificate of Practice?
Only if you intend to practise publicly — signing audit reports and offering professional services. Members in full-time employment generally do not hold a CoP, and holding one carries restrictions.
Is membership renewed annually?
Yes. Membership and any Certificate of Practice require annual renewal on payment of the prescribed fee, along with meeting continuing professional education requirements.
The form takes an hour. The syllabus takes a year.
Once you are registered, the only thing that matters is consistent practice. Start your first study loop free.
Start your CA journey- Free to start
- All 3 CA levels
- No card required