CA Students’ National Talent Search Essay Competition: Fostering Excellence and Creativity

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), through its Board of Studies (Operations), has launched the CA Students’ National Talent Search Essay Competition under its flagship initiative to encourage holistic development among students pursuing Chartered Accountancy. This essay competition aims to hone students' writing, conceptual clarity, and presentation skills, ensuring their transformation into well-rounded professionals.

Objective

The Essay Competition is designed to improve the communication and analytical capabilities of CA students while fostering creativity and originality. This event is a part of ICAI's ongoing efforts to complement the technical education of students with essential soft skills and extra-curricular development.

Eligibility Criteria

• Students registered for the Intermediate or Final CA Course undergoing articleship training.

• Final year students who completed articleship in 2024 and are yet to become ICAI members are eligible for the 2025 competition.

• Participation is restricted to the branch where the student is registered, and only one event can be entered per National Talent Hunt (NTH) announcement.

Competition Structure

The event will progress in three stages:

1. Branch Level (17th May to 10th June 2025)

2. Regional Level (20th June to 30th June 2025)

3. National Level Grand Finale (date to be announced)

• Each branch must ensure at least four participants to host the competition.

• The top three winners from each stage will advance to the next level.

Rules and Guidelines

1. Essays must be handwritten in English and written at the designated venue.

2. Each participant will have one hour to complete the essay.

3. Contestants are prohibited from using gadgets like mobile phones, smartwatches, or earphones during the competition.

Evaluation Criteria (Total: 100 Marks):
Essays will be judged on logical structure, grammar, creativity, language proficiency, and connection to real-life scenarios. Plagiarism is strictly discouraged, though references may be cited if necessary.

Awards and Recognition

Branch Level: Certificates and prizes for the top three participants.
Regional Level: Certificates signed by the Regional Council and Students’ Association representatives.
National Level:

• 1st Prize: ₹21,000

• 2nd Prize: ₹11,000

• 3rd Prize: ₹5,500

Certificates of participation and winner accolades will be presented to all National Level finalists.

Travel and Reimbursement

• Participants at the Regional and National levels will be reimbursed for 2-Tier AC railway fare or airfare (whichever is less).

• A daily allowance of ₹2,500 is provided to cover boarding, lodging, and conveyance for up to five days, subject to actual expenses incurred.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders

The CA Students’ National Talent Search Essay Competition is not just a contest but a platform for aspiring Chartered Accountants to showcase their intellectual and creative acumen. By encouraging participation in such events, ICAI aims to shape confident, articulate, and socially responsible professionals.

For detailed guidelines, students are encouraged to visit their respective ICAI branch or contact their Regional Council. Stay tuned for announcements and let your pen reflect your ideas!