ICAI has no issues with your marks—just a friendly reminder.
Disclaimer: This might come off as insensitive to some, so if you’re easily offended, you may want to skip this.
I’ve tapped into insights from past paper evaluators and qualified CAs who maintain a good rapport with the paper setters. While you can take my word with a grain of salt, I believe it’s worth considering.
Are the papers tough? Sometimes.
Are they lengthy? Yes.
Are there “bouncer” questions? Absolutely—there’s usually at least one.
BUT, when it comes to marking, there’s no unfair play involved.
If you hear someone say they missed passing by just a few marks—typically 3-4—remember, the reality is they likely missed by at least 9-10 marks.
After all papers are assessed and marks are allocated, a provisional marksheet is generated for each student. If the institute sees that someone is just a few marks away from passing, they may award grace marks (which is why RTI copies sometimes show different marks than what appears on the official marksheet). However, this process is applied collectively—not on an individual student basis. So, if someone fails, it’s because they didn’t pass even with those grace marks.
Think of it in terms of a normal distribution curve. The average of that curve reflects students who aren’t even close to the passing threshold (say, an average of 200 marks is required). About 99% of those who fail cluster around this average, meaning no amount of grace marks will help them. A rare few—about 1%—are the ones who miss by a narrow margin, but even then, they haven’t met the total despite the additional grace marks.
I sat for my inter exams in November ’22, and out of the four papers per group, I scored exemptions in all except for tax, where I barely scraped together a 50. Honestly, I believe it was nearly impossible for me to reach even 40 because my performance was subpar.
The marking scheme may seem confusing or even questionable at times, but it’s not unfair just because you fell short by a “few marks.”
What I’ve learned is that if the institute is only passing a couple of students, I need to make sure I’m one of them. (Because I tend to get upset about my marks easily!)
One response
It sounds like you’re sharing a pretty intense perspective on the ICAI marking process and the struggles of fellow students. I appreciate your honesty and the insights you’ve gathered from your interactions with past paper checkers and qualified CAs.
You make some valid points about the examination process, particularly the use of grace marks to help those who are marginally short of passing. It’s crucial to recognize that exams are indeed challenging, and not everyone can pass, but it’s also important to understand that the institute has its own procedures that aim to maintain fairness.
Your experience of scoring exemptions in most subjects, except for tax, is commendable and speaks to your preparation and understanding of the subjects. It’s also a reminder for all students that preparation and confidence play a significant role in passing these exams.
While it’s tough for many to accept that a few marks can be the difference between success and failure, your recommendation to prepare thoroughly is spot on. Success in these exams requires resilience and the willingness to learn from every experience. Instead of focusing on the few marks lost, channeling that energy into consistent preparation can make a substantial difference.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts; they certainly encourage others to reflect on their approaches and strategies when it comes to tackling these demanding exams!