How Often Is The CPA Exam Offered?

In a typical year, the CPA exam window would run as follows: January 1 – March 10, April 1 – June 10, July 1 – September 10, and October 1 – December 10.

The AICPA Is Eliminating CPA Exam Blackout Dates

If you’ve been waiting for a few months to take your CPA exam, there’s good news: The AICPA is eliminating CPA Exam blackout dates. This is a long-awaited change that is making the CPA exam more convenient than ever before.

The exam can now be taken throughout the year, making it easier for candidates to schedule their testing around their schedules.

Traditionally, CPA exams have been given in the first three months of each quarter. However, these months tend to be more challenging for many candidates than others. That’s because testing windows fluctuate and score release dates fall during dark months.

Keep An Eye On The AICPA’s Website

As a result, it’s important to keep an eye on the AICPA’s website for the most accurate dates. Although these periods can be frustrating, there are strategies that can help you make the most of the time you’ll have to study.

Blackout Dates

You should also be aware of CPA exam blackout dates. These dates are usually a three-ish week period at the end of a calendar quarter.

This gives the NASBA time to grade and release the results before the next testing window. You should plan accordingly, so you don’t accidentally schedule a section during this time.

As a result, it’s best to choose your exam dates as early as possible. This will give you the best chance of getting the CPA Exam date you want. You’ll also be able to choose a test center close to your home.

You can also select the time that works best for you. If you can’t get a preferred test date, you should make alternate arrangements.

First Part Of The CPA Exam

The first part of the CPA exam is held on a set schedule. As such, you’ll have about 18 months to pass the exam. If you miss the exam, you’ll need to wait for the next testing window. The remaining three parts of the exam will be offered at different times.

Blackout dates for the CPA exam are rare, but they’re not entirely absent. These days are now part of the CPA exam testing process. As a result, it’s important to plan ahead for your test day.

Once you’ve decided on a date, you will receive an email with the details of the test and where it will be held. Make sure the dates you pick are correct and keep an eye on the dates to ensure you don’t miss the exam.

Costs

The cost of taking the CPA exam depends on many factors, including the type of study materials you choose, the cost of the examination, and any state requirements.

The cost of the exam varies widely, so it’s best to plan your budget accordingly. The costs for the CPA exam include both exam fees and application fees, but there are also some ways you can save.

You may be eligible for scholarship money. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants offers scholarships for those who demonstrate financial need.

These scholarships can cover tuition, books, and fees for up to four years. However, these scholarships do not cover CPA exam review courses. The Society encourages students to apply.

How Much Does it Cost to Take the CPA Exam?

The CPA exam can cost hundreds of dollars. Fees may also be higher if you’re taking the exam in an international location. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) creates the CPA examination, which is administered by state boards. These fees are nonrefundable.

Fees for the CPA exam depend on your state, but there are several common categories that apply to most states. Fees may include: state board application fees, registration fees, foreign transcript evaluation, and exam fees.

You should also be prepared to pay for miscellaneous expenses such as commuting, lodging, and parking. Food is another major expense, as it is vital for you to keep your body and mind well-fueled for the exam.

In addition to the exam fees, you should have at least 30 hours of education in accounting. The state board of accounting websites can tell you more about specific requirements and the costs of the CPA exam. It’s worth considering whether you’ll be able to qualify for a scholarship before submitting your application.

If you’re not able to make your original exam date, you can reschedule your test. However, the cost of rescheduling the test can be high.

The CPA exam has a $35 rescheduling fee for any testing window less than 30 days after you booked it. You can also reschedule your exam online through the Prometric website.

CPA Exam Testing Centers

The CPA exam is offered in several locations. The testing centers are owned and operated by Prometric, a company that administers hundreds of other standardized professional exams.

 Although Prometric does not have any input in the exam content, they do oversee the exam administration. Listed below are the different locations where candidates can take the CPA exam.

Testing centers are open for 6 months after applicants submit their application. The testing centers are located across the world, including in the U.S., Europe, Japan, Latin America, the Middle East, and India. However, you must register early to secure a spot in a center.

Now You Take The CPA Exam Whenever You’re Available

In recent years, the CPA exam has been available year-round. This means that you can take the exam whenever you’re available. However, some testing centers may be closed during certain periods, such as during the winter months.

NASBA and Prometric have worked to eliminate the blackout dates by offering the exam throughout the year. As a result, this change will provide candidates with more convenience and flexibility.

Before registering for the CPA exam, check with your state board and make a list of dates and locations. Once you have a list of testing centers, you can start scheduling appointments. The earlier you register, the better your chance of getting your first choice of dates, times, and locations.

It’s Also Possible To Reschedule Your Exam

The AICPA and Prometric have guidelines in place that ensure you don’t miss an important exam date. However, be aware that you may have to pay a fee if you need to change your appointment date.

It’s also recommended that you arrive at the testing center thirty minutes early to avoid any hassles. Be sure to bring the proper identification and other documents. If you fail to do so, you’ll not be allowed to take the CPA exam.

CPA Exam Validity Period

The validity period of the CPA exam varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. The length of time required to pass the exam depends on the candidate’s preparation, skills, and time management.

It is helpful to plan ahead and understand which sections require more time. A study plan can help the candidate decide the right amount of time to spend on each.

The Board awards credit for a section of the exam for up to 18 months. Time spent on active military service is not counted against this period. The candidate must apply to sit for the exam during his or her active duty.

Each month that the candidate satisfies the examination requirements will count toward the 18-month period. However, a person who fails the exam within the validity period will have to retake the exam.

CPA Exam Structure

The exam has four sections. Once a candidate has passed all four sections, the exam is valid for up to 18 months. However, the credit earned for each section will expire after the specified period.

If the student fails to pass all four sections within the timeframe, the exam will no longer count as credit.

Therefore, a person may need to retake a section if the validity period of the section exceeds the 18-month period. The score notice will contain the relevant expiration dates.

How Long is the CPA Exam

The CPA exam is four hours long. The exam is divided into sections that test different parts of business and accounting. The test is delivered in multiple choice and task-based formats.

Each section lasts four hours. The validity period for each section differs, but it is not necessary to take each section in any particular order.

The validity period of the CPA exam varies by jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions have an 18-month window for passing the entire test.

Wrapping It Up

To pass the exam within this timeframe, time management is essential. Applicants should plan their schedule when they apply, allowing ample time for studying and passing each section.