The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially declared the CA Intermediate January Session 2026 results. Kanhiya Lal secured AIR 1 with an impressive 84.67%, leading a cohort of successful candidates. This article provides a detailed breakdown of topper achievements, group-wise pass percentages, and crucial next steps for aspiring Chartered Accountants.

What are the results of the ICAI CA Intermediate January Session 2026?

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has officially declared the results for the Chartered Accountancy (CA) Intermediate examination for the January Session 2026. Aspiring CAs can now check their scores on the official websites, icai.nic.in and icai.org. This session saw notable achievements, with Kanhiya Lal from Ellenabad securing the coveted All India Rank (AIR) 1.

Key Highlights of the January 2026 CA Intermediate Results

The January 2026 session of the CA Intermediate examination has brought forth a new wave of talented professionals. Here are the standout performances:

• All India Rank 1: Kanhiya Lal from Ellenabad achieved the top spot with an outstanding 84.67 per cent, scoring 508 out of 600 marks.
• All India Rank 2: Fathima Shehza K secured the second rank with 84 per cent (504 out of 600).
• All India Rank 3: Vanya Bansal from Faridabad earned the third position with 83 per cent (498 out of 600).

The examination was conducted across various centers in India and overseas, with Group I exams held on January 6, 8, and 10, and Group II exams on January 15, 17, and 19, 2026.

Understanding the Pass Percentages Across Groups

The CA Intermediate examination is known for its rigorous standards, and the January 2026 session was no exception. The results are categorized into Group I, Group II, and candidates who appeared for both groups. Understanding these pass rates is crucial for appreciating the competitive landscape:

• Group II: Recorded the highest pass rate, with 10,798 candidates clearing the exam out of 69,477 who appeared, resulting in a 15.54% pass percentage.
• Group I: Saw 14,733 candidates pass out of 1,05,526 who sat for the test, with a pass rate of 13.96%.
• Both Groups: Had the lowest pass rate at 9.39%, with 3,924 candidates qualifying out of 41,798 who attempted both.

From my tenure overseeing academic programs and advising students in the CA domain, I’ve observed that understanding these detailed pass rate breakdowns is pivotal. For instance, in cycles where Group I pass rates dip, we often adjust our mentorship strategies to focus more heavily on conceptual clarity and exam-specific techniques for those subjects. This data-driven approach, refined over many exam sessions, significantly improves a student’s chances, highlighting that successful navigation of the CA Inter exam is as much about strategic preparation as it is about hard work.

Comparison with Previous Sessions

To put these figures into perspective, previous examination cycles reflect similar patterns of competitiveness:

• September 2025 Session: The overall pass percentage for candidates appearing in both groups was around 10.06% (3,663 qualified out of 36,398).
• January 2025 Session: The overall pass percentage for candidates appearing in both groups was approximately 14.05%.

These historical trends reinforce the demanding nature of the CA Intermediate examination, where strategic preparation and consistent effort are paramount.

What’s Next for Qualified Candidates?

For candidates who have successfully cleared both groups of the CA Intermediate examination, the next crucial step is to begin the mandatory three-year articleship training. This practical training phase, conducted under a practicing chartered accountant, is essential for developing real-world professional skills and is a prerequisite for appearing in the final stage of the CA course. Your scorecard will provide subject-wise marks, total marks obtained, and your qualifying status. Additionally, candidates have the option to apply for verification of marks or obtain certified copies of their evaluated answer sheets after the result declaration, which can be a valuable step for those seeking clarity or a re-evaluation.

Conclusion: The Path Forward in Chartered Accountancy

The declaration of the ICAI CA Intermediate January 2026 results marks a significant milestone for many. While it celebrates the success of toppers like Kanhiya Lal and all qualified candidates, it also serves as a point of reflection for those who may need to re-strategize their approach. The journey to becoming a Chartered Accountant demands not just academic prowess but also resilience and strategic planning. Whether you’re moving on to articleship or preparing for another attempt, consistent effort and a clear understanding of the examination’s demands remain the keys to success in this esteemed profession.