CPA Exam Testing Windows and Score Release Dates

CPA exam dates and score release schedules can be the deciding factor in your path to licensure. With the CPA exam’s average pass rate around 54%, nailing your timeline and understanding when scores are released could be what sets you up for success.

But here’s the key detail you need to know:

Every CPA section you take has a scheduled score release date that impacts your planning, retakes, and progression. I remember planning each section carefully, eagerly watching those release dates like a hawk to stay on track. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about CPA exam scheduling and score release dates.

Key Takeaways

• Year-round testing for core sections: Core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) can be scheduled anytime throughout the year, giving candidates more flexibility to create their own timelines.
• Discipline sections follow testing windows: Discipline sections (TCP, BAR, ISC) are available during four specific windows each year—January, April, July, and October—requiring careful scheduling.
• Strategic exam planning is essential: Knowing the target score release dates for each section can help you plan your study schedule, retakes, and progress toward licensure.
• 18-30 month rule for passed sections: Depending on your state, you have 18 to 30 months to pass all CPA exam sections, so planning your schedule around these limits is key.

CPA Exam Testing Windows

Starting in 2025, continuous testing applies to the core sections, meaning candidates can take these sections whenever they’re ready throughout the year without waiting for specific testing windows. Discipline sections, however, adhere to a more structured schedule with four annual testing windows.

Here’s the schedule for discipline section testing dates for 2025:

This schedule offers flexibility for core sections while the discipline sections remain in defined testing windows to maintain consistent score release dates.

Understanding CPA Exam Score Release Dates

The AICPA, working with NASBA, releases CPA exam scores within a few weeks of each testing window. The score release date depends on when the AICPA receives your exam data file from the testing center. This process applies to both core and discipline sections and helps ensure the scores reflect quality control procedures.

Here’s the estimated 2025 score release schedule:

Planning Your CPA Exam Schedule

With the introduction of continuous testing, CPA candidates now have more control over their exam schedules.

Here are a few key tips for making the most of the available test dates:

• Set a study schedule: Plan study blocks for each core section, prioritizing tricky topics like FAR and specific areas in BAR ISC discipline sections.
• Use a CPA review course: Popular options like Becker offer exam-like simulations, which are particularly useful for FAR and REG. Check your NASBA CPA candidate account to track testing dates and score release.
• Schedule early: Make sure to book your test dates at the Prometric testing center as soon as you receive your Notice to Schedule.

Score Release Process

The score release process begins after you complete an exam section. Prometric sends your exam data file to the AICPA for scoring. Once the AICPA has completed the scoring process, the results are forwarded to NASBA. NASBA is responsible for releasing the scores to candidates and state boards. This process ensures proper handling and quality control at each step before the scores are made available.

CPA Exam Sections Breakdown

The CPA exam consists of three essential core sections that every candidate must complete, along with one optional discipline section tailored to specific career paths. This structure, introduced under the CPA Evolution initiative, balances foundational knowledge with specialized expertise.

Core Sections

• Auditing and Attestation (AUD): This section integrates modern technology into audit procedures and includes scenarios focused on ethics and decision-making in audit practices.
• Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR): FAR focuses on developing a deep understanding of U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) alongside International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), highlighting the increasingly global scope of financial reporting practices.
• Regulation (REG): REG explores current tax regulations alongside professional responsibilities and ethical standards, preparing candidates for real-world regulatory challenges.

Discipline Sections (Choose One)

• Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP): This option emphasizes strategic tax planning and includes practical, scenario-based problems to build applicable skills.
• Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR): Designed for those focused on advanced financial reporting and analysis, BAR incorporates data analytics and technology tools to tackle complex business challenges.
• Information Systems and Controls (ISC): ISC addresses critical topics like cybersecurity, IT system management, and data privacy, ensuring candidates are prepared for the technological demands of modern accounting roles.

With core sections now available year-round through continuous testing, candidates have more flexibility to set up a strategic testing timeline.

What to Expect from the New CPA Exam

The CPA Evolution introduced a significant shift, offering specialized discipline sections that align with distinct career paths. Choosing a section like Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR) gives candidates focused testing on advanced financial skills, while Information Systems and Controls (ISC) covers cybersecurity and IT risk, crucial for roles interacting with tech systems. Core sections are available year-round with continuous testing, providing greater flexibility for CPA candidates to work around personal and professional commitments.

CPA Exam Deadlines to Watch

It’s crucial to stay on top of registration deadlines from your state boards to avoid missing out on your preferred test dates. Each state may have its own registration timelines, and meeting these deadlines will help ensure you receive scores on time. Also, be mindful of the 18 to 30-month expiration date on passed sections, which is key to maintaining your CPA exam scoring momentum.

Conclusion

Successfully navigating the CPA exam process requires more than just dedication—it demands careful planning and a clear understanding of the exam schedule and score release dates. By leveraging the flexibility of year-round testing for core sections and strategically aligning discipline section exams within their specific windows, you can optimize your CPA study plan and testing timeline.

Staying informed about key deadlines, understanding the structure of the new exam with the CPA Evolution, and using available resources like review courses will give you the confidence to succeed. Remember, the CPA exam is as much about preparation and strategy as it is about knowledge. With a thoughtful plan in place, you’re well on your way to earning your CPA license and unlocking new career opportunities.

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