Under the ICAI New Scheme Audit paper pattern, the subject is now titled “Auditing and Ethics” (100 Marks), with a student-friendly split:
- 30% MCQs
- 70% Descriptive Questions
By focusing on Professional Skepticism and understanding Audit Risk, you can master this paper while building a strong foundation for your future career as a Chartered Accountant.
1. The “ABC Analysis”: Prioritizing for May 2026
Mastering these high-weightage chapters in Auditing helps you cover maximum marks with minimum theory fatigue.
CA Inter Audit ABC Analysis (Weightage-Based)
| Category | Priority Chapters | Approx. Exam Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Category A | Audit Documentation & Evidence (SA 230, SA 500), Audit Report (SA 700 Series), Ethics and Terms of Engagement |
50% – 60% |
| Category B | Risk Assessment, Internal Control, Company Audit (CARO 2020 focus) |
25% – 30% |
| Category C | Audit of Different Types of Entities, Bank Audit |
10% – 15% |
2. Mastering the “Language” of Standards on Auditing (SAs)
Many students lose marks not due to lack of knowledge, but because they don’t use ICAI-specific terminology.
Super-Important SAs for 2026
- SA 200 – Overall Objectives of the Independent Auditor
- SA 240 – Auditor’s Responsibilities Relating to Fraud
- SA 315 & SA 330 – Identifying and Responding to Risk of Material Misstatement
- SA 505 – External Confirmations (Examiner favourite for case studies)
Referring to this Standards on Auditing (SA) list for CA Inter ensures you focus on the most scoring areas in Auditing and Ethics.
Check out official ICAI site to know more – https://www.icai.org/post/intermediate-nset
3. Ethics & Professional Conduct: The Scoring Zone
In the 2026 syllabus, ICAI places heavy emphasis on:
- Independence
- Integrity
Mnemonic to Remember Fundamental Principles: “IOPCC”
- I – Integrity
- O – Objectivity
- P – Professional Competence and Due Care
- C – Confidentiality
- C – Professional Behavior
Mastering Professional Ethics for CA Inter gives you ready-to-write answers and works as a marks safety net in the exam.
4. Strategy to Score 60+ (The “Exemption Plan”)
Proven Roadmap for CA Inter Audit 2026
1. Nail the 30-Mark MCQs
- These are objective, guaranteed marks
- Practice case-scenario MCQs daily
- Improves professional judgment
2. Presentation Matters
- Use bullet points
- Bold technical terms like Materiality, Audit Risk
- Always quote:
- SA number
- Exact SA title
- SA number
3. The “Module First” Rule
- ICAI Study Material = Non-negotiable
- Use ICAI language for definitions
- Align your answers with the examiner’s checklist
Knowing how to score 60+ in CA Inter Audit is about smart execution, not over-studying.
5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid in the 2026 Exam
Mistake #1: Memorization Without Understanding
- 2026 papers are case-study heavy
- If you don’t understand Inherent Risk, you can’t apply it
Mistake #2: Ignoring “Audit in an Automated Environment”
- Most businesses are digital
- ICAI loves testing:
- IT controls
- Automated processes
- Data analytics basics
- IT controls
Avoiding these errors alone puts you ahead of thousands of students.
Conclusion: Your Audit Roadmap
Master ethics early, maintain professional skepticism, and audit procedures will follow naturally.
This Auditing and Ethics CA Inter guide is your structured roadmap to success in May 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Balancing the 30% MCQ / 70% descriptive split, prioritizing high-weightage SAs, and mastering ethics to target 60+ marks.
Yes. There is a stronger focus on Ethics and Audit in an Automated Environment, aligned with ICAI’s practical approach.
Focus on the 200, 300, 500, and 700 series, especially SA 315 (Risk Assessment) and SA 500 (Audit Evidence).
