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ICAI Plans Major CA Curriculum Changes: AI and Data Analytics Likely to be Added

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CA Preeti Aggarwal

On May 23, 2026

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ICAI Plans Major CA Curriculum Changes: AI and Data Analytics Likely to be Added

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India is planning major changes in the Chartered Accountancy curriculum. As per recent reports, ICAI is set to introduce subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics and other emerging areas into the CA curriculum.

The proposed changes are being considered in view of the changing nature of the accounting profession, where technology and digital tools are becoming increasingly relevant.

Subjects Likely to be Included

According to the reports, subjects such as:

Artificial Intelligence
Data Analytics
ESG
Sustainability
Forensic Auditing

are likely to be considered as part of the revised education structure. At present, these subjects are not formally included in the CA curriculum.

CRET Formed by ICAI

ICAI has constituted the Committee for Review of Education and Training, referred to as CRET, to review the existing CA education and training system.

The committee will examine various aspects, including:

Existing CA syllabus
Practical training structure
Articleship training
Soft skills development
Communication training
Examination methods

The committee is expected to complete its recommendations by December. After the recommendations are finalised, the proposals are expected to be placed in the public domain for feedback and discussion.

Statement by ICAI President

ICAI President Prasanna Kumar D stated that technology has become an important part of the accounting profession. He said that AI is not limited only to engineering or technical fields and that chartered accountants working in employment as well as practice will require knowledge of AI-based tools and data analysis.

The updated curriculum is likely to be implemented from 2028.

Link with the New Scheme of Education and Training

ICAI had earlier introduced the New Scheme of Education and Training in 2023. The present review is expected to assess further improvements required in the CA education system in line with changing industry requirements.

What This Means for CA Students

For CA students, the proposed changes may mean that future batches will study technology-driven subjects along with traditional areas of accounting, auditing and taxation. The review may also bring changes in practical training, soft skills, communication training and examination methods, depending on the final recommendations approved by ICAI.

At this stage, the changes are still at the proposal and review stage. Students should wait for official announcements and the final curriculum notification from ICAI before relying on any revised syllabus structure.

Conclusion

ICAI is reviewing the CA curriculum through CRET and is planning to include emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, ESG, Sustainability and Forensic Auditing. The committee is expected to submit its recommendations by December, after which the proposals may be released for public feedback. The final changes will depend on ICAI’s official approval and notification.