Becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA) in Bangladesh is a prestigious and challenging professional journey. The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) oversees the CA qualification, ensuring that its members meet the highest standards of technical competence, ethics, and professional judgment. For aspiring CAs, understanding the exam syllabus is crucial to effective preparation and eventual success. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the structure, content, and expectations of the ICAB CA exam syllabus, providing clarity and actionable insights for your CA journey.
Overview of the CA Qualification in Bangladesh
The Chartered Accountancy qualification in Bangladesh is structured to develop well-rounded professionals equipped with technical knowledge, analytical skills, and ethical grounding. The ICAB curriculum is benchmarked against international standards, notably aligning with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), ensuring global recognition and relevance.
The CA journey is divided into three main stages:
- Certificate Level (CL)
- Professional Level (PL)
- Advanced Level (AL)
Each stage builds upon the previous, with increasing complexity and depth of knowledge required.
Certificate Level (CL): Building the Foundation
The Certificate Level is the entry point for CA students. It focuses on fundamental concepts in accounting, assurance, business, law, taxation, and information technology. The aim is to ensure that candidates have a solid grounding in the basics before progressing to more advanced topics.
Subjects and Structure
The Certificate Level comprises seven papers, totaling 600 marks:
| Paper | Marks | Exam Duration (H:MM) |
|---|---|---|
| Assurance | 100 | 2:15 |
| Accounting | 100 | 2:15 |
| Business and Finance | 100 | 2:15 |
| Management Information | 100 | 2:15 |
| Taxation 1 | 100 | 3:30 |
| Business Law | 50 | 1:45 |
| Information Technology | 50 | 1:45 |
Key Features:
- Most papers are assessed through short-form written exams, except for Taxation 1, which uses a traditional written format.
- Emphasis on double-entry accounting, business structures, legal frameworks, and basic taxation principles.
Core Syllabus Areas
1. Assurance
- Concepts and processes of assurance
- Internal controls
- Gathering audit evidence
- Professional ethics
2. Accounting
- Double-entry accounting techniques
- Adjusting financial records
- Preparing financial statements for sole traders, partnerships, and companies
3. Business and Finance
- Business objectives and structures
- The role of finance and accounting
- The accountancy profession’s contribution to business
4. Management Information
- Information systems and their role in business
- Data analysis and management reporting
5. Taxation 1
- General principles of taxation in Bangladesh
- Direct and indirect taxes
- Taxation of individuals and businesses
- Value Added Tax (VAT)
6. Business Law
- Legal systems and sources of law
- Contract law, company law, and commercial law
7. Information Technology
- Fundamentals of IT and its application in business
- IT risks and controls
Assessment Approach
- Short-answer questions for most papers
- Traditional written exam for Taxation 1
- Focus on practical application and ethical considerations
Professional Level (PL): Developing Technical Expertise
The Professional Level deepens technical knowledge and analytical skills. It introduces more complex topics and expects students to apply foundational knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Subjects and Structure
Seven papers, totaling 700 marks:
| Paper | Marks | Exam Duration (H:MM) |
|---|---|---|
| Audit and Assurance | 100 | 3:30 |
| Financial Accounting and Reporting | 100 | 3:30 |
| Business Strategy | 100 | 3:30 |
| Financial Management | 100 | 3:30 |
| Taxation 2 | 100 | 3:30 |
| Corporate Laws and Practices | 100 | 3:30 |
| Information Technology Governance | 100 | 3:30 |
Core Syllabus Areas
1. Audit and Assurance
- Legal, ethical, and current issues
- Accepting and managing engagements
- Planning and concluding assurance engagements
2. Financial Accounting and Reporting
- Advanced accounting and reporting concepts
- Preparation of single and consolidated financial statements
3. Business Strategy
- Strategic analysis and choice
- Implementation of business strategies
4. Financial Management
- Financing options
- Managing financial risks
5. Taxation 2
- Direct tax (60%): Advanced income tax, corporate tax
- Indirect tax (40%): VAT, customs, excise, supplementary duties
6. Corporate Laws and Practices
- Corporate governance
- Company law and compliance
7. Information Technology Governance
- IT strategy and risk management
- Governance frameworks
Assessment Approach
- Traditional written exams for all papers
- Application of knowledge to practical and scenario-based questions
- Increased focus on analytical and evaluative skills
Advanced Level (AL): Mastering Professional Judgment
The Advanced Level is the final stage, designed to test the integration of technical knowledge, professional skills, and ethical judgment. It simulates real-life business challenges, requiring candidates to demonstrate strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Subjects and Structure
Three papers, totaling 300 marks:
| Paper | Marks | Exam Duration (H:MM) |
|---|---|---|
| Financial & Corporate Reporting | 100 | 3:00 |
| Advanced Audit and Assurance | 100 | 3:00 |
| Business Analysis | 100 | 3:00 |
| Case Study | 100 | 4:00 |
Core Syllabus Areas
1. Financial & Corporate Reporting
- Complex financial reporting standards
- Group accounts and business combinations
2. Advanced Audit and Assurance
- High-level audit engagements
- Risk assessment and management
3. Business Analysis
- Strategic business management and leadership
- Performance evaluation
4. Case Study
- Integrative scenario covering all technical areas
- Real-world business problem-solving
Assessment Approach
- Written exams focusing on case studies and scenario analysis
- Emphasis on professional judgment, ethics, and communication skills
Ethics: The Overarching Principle
Ethics is embedded throughout the CA syllabus. Students are expected to understand and apply the IESBA Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants, including principles such as integrity, objectivity, professional competence, confidentiality, and professional behavior. Ethical dilemmas and professional misconduct are tested in various modules, reinforcing the importance of ethical decision-making in the profession.
Exam Structure and Assessment Methods
- Certificate Level: Mix of short-form and traditional written exams, with a focus on foundational knowledge and practical application.
- Professional Level: Traditional written exams with scenario-based and analytical questions.
- Advanced Level: Integrative case studies testing professional judgment and strategic thinking.
Each paper has a defined duration, generally ranging from 2 to 3.5 hours, with the Case Study at Advanced Level lasting 4 hours.
Tips for Navigating the ICAB Syllabus
1. Understand the Weightings
Each module has a specification grid indicating the relative weighting of topics. Focus your study time accordingly to maximize your marks.
2. Prioritize Ethics
Ethics is not just a standalone topic but is woven into every module. Practice ethical reasoning and be prepared to address ethical dilemmas in the exam.
3. Practice Application
The exams test not only theoretical knowledge but also practical application. Use past papers and scenario-based questions to hone your skills.
4. Stay Updated
Taxation and business laws are subject to frequent changes. Ensure your study materials reflect the latest legislation, rules, and regulations.
5. Seek Guidance
Mentorship from experienced CAs or professional coaching can provide valuable insights and exam strategies.
Why the Syllabus Matters for Your Career
Mastering the ICAB syllabus is not just about passing exams. It prepares you for a dynamic career in accounting, audit, finance, and business leadership. The knowledge and skills you acquire are directly applicable to real-world challenges, making you a valuable asset to employers in Bangladesh and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to complete the CA qualification?
The duration varies depending on individual progress, but typically it takes 4–6 years, including the required practical training.
Q: Is the CA qualification recognized internationally?
Yes, ICAB’s alignment with ICAEW and other global bodies ensures international recognition.
Q: What is the pass rate for the CA exams?
Pass rates vary by module and session. Diligent preparation and understanding the syllabus are key to success.
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Citations:
- https://caafterhsc.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/2-click-here-application_level-syllabus.pdf
- https://www.icab.org.bd/icabadmin/uploads/ckeditor/5117ICAB%20Syllabus-2023.pdf
- https://caafterhsc.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/1-click-here-knowledge_level-syllabus.pdf
- https://acabd.wordpress.com/2020/10/01/chartered-accountancy-in-bangladesh-what-you-need-to-know/
- https://www.scribd.com/document/750672778/Comparative-Analysis-of-ICAB-old-new-syllabus-For-Certificate-Level
- https://www.payscale.com/research/BD/Certification=Chartered_Accountant_(CA)/Salary
- https://www.icab.org.bd/page/icab-latest-syllabus
- https://www.icab.org.bd/page/icab-new-curriculum
- https://www.scribd.com/document/392037998/Full-Syllabus-of-ICAB-Certificate-Level-Professional-Level-Advanced-Level
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Institute_of_Chartered_Accountants_of_Bangladesh
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