ICAI Branch In Charge Syllabus 2026, Know Exam Pattern

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has announced recruitment for 129 Branch In-Charge positions across its five Regional Councils in 2026. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the exam pattern, ICAI Branch In Charge Syllabus 2026, and selection process for candidates applying under the Branch Human Resource Scheme (BHRS).

The ICAI Branch In-Charge Syllabus 2026 is designed to test candidates on administrative, communication, and basic professional skills required for branch operations. The Computer-Based Test (CBT) includes English Comprehension, E-mail Writing, MS Excel, MS Word, General Awareness, and Basic Accounting. English evaluates reading and understanding ability, while email writing checks formal communication skills. MS Excel and Word test practical computer proficiency. General Awareness covers current affairs and organizational knowledge. Basic Accounting focuses on fundamental accounting concepts and principles. The exam is objective-based with descriptive elements (email writing), followed by an interview stage for final selection

ICAI Branch In Charge Recruitment Overview

The ICAI Branch In-Charge Recruitment 2026 offers a permanent position for graduates with relevant work experience. The online application window opened till19 July 2026.

Regional Vacancy Distribution

ICAI Branch In Charge Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification:

• Graduate from a recognized University, Deemed University, or institution approved by AICTE/UGC 

Age Limit:

• 27 to 40 years as on 30 June 2026 

Work Experience:

• Category I, II, III Branches: Minimum 5 years of post-qualification experience

• Category IV, V, VI Branches: Minimum 3 years of post-qualification experience 

Application Fee:

• ₹250 (non-refundable) for all categories 

ICAI Branch In Charge Selection Process

The selection process consists of two stages:

1. Computer-Based Test (CBT) – Written examination

2. Personal Interview – For candidates who qualify the CBT

Final merit is prepared by combining marks from both the CBT and interview .

ICAI Branch In-Charge Exam Pattern 2026

The Computer-Based Test is designed to evaluate candidates on communication skills, computer proficiency, general awareness, and basic accounting concepts .

CBT Overview

Subject-Wise Breakdown

Key Points About the Exam Pattern

1. English Comprehension: Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and understanding of written English 

2. E-Mail Writing: Descriptive questions assessing professional email composition skills 

3. MS Excel: Intermediate-level proficiency including formulas, functions, data analysis tools 

4. MS Word: Intermediate-level skills including formatting, document creation, and editing 

5. General Awareness: Current affairs and general knowledge relevant to the role 

6. Basic Accounting: Fundamental accounting principles, terms, and concepts 

Skill Sets Required

Candidates should possess the following competencies:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Proficiency in spoken and written English

• Proficiency in MS Office and relevant computer applications

• Effective managerial, administrative, and organizational abilities

• Strong relationship management and conflict resolution skills 

ICAI Branch In-Charge Syllabus 2026 (CBT Exam)

Related CA Syllabus Updates

While the Branch In-Charge recruitment follows a distinct exam pattern, it’s worth noting that ICAI is actively reviewing its CA curriculum. The institute has formed the Curriculum Review and Evaluation Team (CRET) to examine the entire CA syllabus, with a focus on incorporating:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Data Analytics

• ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance)

• Sustainability topics

ICAI President Prasanna Kumar D has emphasized that AI will become essential for CA professionals to survive in both jobs and practice . The CRET committee is expected to complete its recommendations by December 2026.