CPA Exam
IMPORTANT UPDATE:
In anticipation of the reopening of Prometric test centers in April, and in response to the COVID-19 situation, NASBA, AICPA and Prometric have made the decision to invoke an emergency testing period. We understand candidates are concerned about their testing options and, therefore, we are implementing this emergency testing period to provide additional testing opportunities. As part of this procedure, the 20Q2 testing window will be extended from June 10, 2020, to June 30, 2020. As previously noted, NASBA will extend all NTSs expiring between April 1 – June 30, 2020, until September 30, 2020, and Prometric will waive all rescheduling fees. We will do our best to keep you informed during these unique times.
CPA Exam Overview
To become a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA), you must first pass the Uniform CPA Examination®.
The CPA Exam consists of four, four-hour sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) and Regulation (REG). You must pass all four sections within 18 months, earning a minimum score of 75 on each part.
Study the CPA Exam Blueprints to learn about the specific topics tested in each Exam section. Practice with the sample tests before your test day to learn about the Exam’s format and functionality.
CPA Exam Schedule
You can take the Exam during any one of four “testing windows.”* To apply for the Exam, visit NASBA’s CPA Central.
Testing Windows
- January 1 - March 10
- April 1 - June 10*
*the 20Q2 testing window will be extended from June 10, 2020, to June 30, 2020. - July 1 - September 10
- October 1 - December 10
*As of July 1, 2020, testing windows will be replaced by continuous testing. Visit the Testing Window and Score Release Dates page for more information.
CPA Exam Requirements
How do you become a CPA? Each licensing jurisdiction has its own eligibility requirements for education, experience and ethics. Check with your specific Board of Accountancy for more information.
2019 CPA Exam Pass Rates
Already taken the Exam and need to get your score?
Pass rates for other current year testing windows are also available.
Need answers? Our frequently asked questions (FAQs) cover all your questions about the CPA Exam.
CPA Exam Announcements
CPA Exam Pilot To Launch In India
Prometric test centers to offer the CPA Exam in eight Indian cities.
Continuous Testing to Launch July 1, 2020
Year-round testing is coming. Learn more today.
2020 Q2 Test Window Extended
The 20Q2 testing window will be extended from June 10, 2020, to June 30, 2020
2020 Q1/Q2 Score Release Timeline
Find out when scores will be released during the first two testing windows.
Listen to the September 2019 CPA Exam Webcasts
Free recordings of the AICPA/NASBA U.S. and international webcasts are now available.
CPA Exam International Applicants
The testing and licensure process for international CPA candidates is the same as it is for U.S. candidates with a few exceptions. You must qualify to become a CPA candidate through a participating Board of Accountancy jurisdiction.
If you are an international accounting professional accredited by an accounting body that has a mutual recognition agreement with the U.S. accounting profession, you may be eligible to take the International Qualification Examination (IQEX).
CPA Exam Assistance
AICPA (CPA Exam content, scoring, and sample tests)
NASBA (eligibility, NTS, accommodations, scores and licensing)
Board of Accountancy (candidate requirements)
Prometric (test centers and CPA Exam scheduling)
Next Stop: CPA – the official podcast for the CPA Exam
Through a wide range of interviews and discussions, hosts Mike and Lauren cover the topics important to those currently studying for or still considering the CPA. New episodes are added each month. Subscribe today.
