The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam is one of the most rigorous professional certifications in the financial and accounting world. Passing the CPA exam opens up numerous opportunities, including higher earning potential and increased career mobility.
For candidates preparing to take this challenging test, understanding the exam schedule and test dates is essential for effective planning.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the CPA exam test dates, including how to register, key timelines, and strategies to stay organized.
What are CPA Exam Test Dates?
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CPA exam test dates are the days that the CPA exam is offered for test takers. In past years, candidates were only allowed to take the exam on certain dates. Today, the CPA exam has moved toward continuous testing where candidates can sit for the exam almost any day during the year.
Understanding the CPA Exam Structure
Before diving into test dates, it’s important to understand the structure of the CPA exam. The exam consists of four sections, each focusing on a core area of accounting:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD): Covers auditing procedures, ethics, and professional responsibilities.
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC): Examines corporate governance, economics, financial management, and IT.
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR): Focuses on financial reporting frameworks used by various organizations.
- Regulation (REG): Includes federal taxation, business law, and ethics.
Each section is scored separately, and candidates must achieve a minimum score of 75 on a scale of 0 to 99 to pass.
Key Takeaways
- The CPA exam now offers continuous testing, allowing year-round scheduling.
- Candidates must first meet state-specific eligibility requirements and obtain a Notice to Schedule (NTS) before booking exam dates.
- Scores are released multiple times each quarter, enabling quick retakes if necessary.
- Strategic scheduling, based on readiness and personal commitments, is crucial for success.
By staying organized and informed, candidates can approach the CPA exam with confidence, paving the way to a rewarding career in accounting.
CPA Exam Testing Windows
Year-Round Testing
Historically, the CPA exam was only offered during designated testing windows each quarter. However, as of July 2020, the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) implemented continuous testing, allowing candidates to schedule their exams year-round. This change provides greater flexibility and reduces the pressure of aligning schedules with limited testing periods.
Under continuous testing, candidates can:
- Take any section of the CPA exam at nearly any time.
- Retake a failed section as soon as the score release confirms their results (previously, there was a mandatory 30-day wait period).
- Plan their testing dates around personal schedules and preparation timelines.
While continuous testing has made scheduling more convenient, candidates must still meet specific state board requirements and deadlines for application and payment.
How to Register for the CPA Exam
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Each U.S. state or jurisdiction has its own requirements for CPA exam eligibility. Typically, candidates must:
- Have a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in accounting or a related field.
- Meet specific credit hour requirements in accounting and business courses.
Step 2: Apply to Your State Board of Accountancy
Candidates must submit an application to their state board or jurisdiction. This process includes:
- Providing transcripts to verify educational requirements.
- Paying an application fee.
Step 3: Receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS)
Once approved, candidates receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS), which is required to book exam dates. The NTS is valid for six months in most states, but some jurisdictions may have different expiration periods.
Step 4: Schedule Your Exam
Using the Prometric testing center website, candidates can choose their preferred exam dates and locations. It’s recommended to schedule early, especially during peak testing periods, to secure your desired time slot.
CPA Exam Score Release Dates
While candidates can now take the CPA exam year-round, scores are released according to a predetermined schedule. The AICPA releases scores multiple times each quarter, typically within a few weeks of the test date.
2025 CPA Exam Score Release Timeline
For 2025, the anticipated score release dates are as follows:
Exam Taken Between | Score Release Date |
January 1 – January 20 | February 5, 2025 |
January 21 – February 14 | February 27, 2025 |
February 15 – March 10 | March 24, 2025 |
March 11 – March 31 | April 14, 2025 |
These dates allow candidates to plan their study schedules and retake exams, if necessary, without significant delays. Always check the official NASBA website for the most up-to-date information.
Tips for Choosing CPA Exam Test Dates
Assess Your Readiness
The CPA exam demands thorough preparation, often requiring hundreds of study hours per section. Evaluate your progress and schedule your exam only when you feel confident in your knowledge.
Avoid Procrastination
While continuous testing offers flexibility, it can also lead to procrastination. Set firm deadlines for each section and stick to your timeline.
Account for Personal and Professional Commitments
Choose test dates that don’t conflict with work, family obligations, or other responsibilities. A clear schedule reduces stress and allows for focused preparation.
Consider Retake Opportunities
If you don’t pass a section on your first attempt, plan for a possible retake. Continuous testing enables candidates to quickly reschedule after receiving their scores.
Avoid Peak Periods
Testing centers may become crowded during certain times of the year, such as just before the annual CPA exam changes or in December. Scheduling early ensures availability at your preferred location.
Special Testing Considerations for 2024 and Beyond
The 2024 CPA Evolution
The CPA exam underwent significant changes as part of the 2024 CPA Evolution initiative, introducing a new Core + Disciplines model. While the core sections (AUD, FAR, and REG) remain, candidates now choose one discipline to focus on:
- Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
- Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
This change emphasizes specialized knowledge and impacts how candidates schedule their exams. With the additional discipline component, strategic planning is more critical than ever.
Test Center Availability
While Prometric testing centers are widely available, some locations may have limited capacity. Candidates in rural areas or international locations should plan ahead to secure a convenient test site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I take the CPA exam in a year?
With continuous testing, you can take the CPA exam year-round without waiting for quarterly testing windows. If you fail a section, you can retake it as soon as your score is released.
When should I schedule my CPA exam?
Schedule your CPA exam when you feel fully prepared and confident in your knowledge of the material. Aim to book early to secure your preferred time and location, especially during peak periods.
How long is my Notice to Schedule (NTS) valid?
In most jurisdictions, the NTS is valid for six months, but this timeframe can vary by state. Check with your state board of accountancy for specific expiration details.
Are CPA exam scores released immediately after the test?
No, CPA exam scores are released according to a predetermined schedule, typically within a few weeks after your test date. You can find the specific score release dates on the NASBA website.