The CPA Exam is a critical step for aspiring accountants and financial professionals aiming to achieve certification.
Understanding the CPA Exam schedule is essential for planning your preparation, scheduling test dates, and meeting key deadlines.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the CPA Exam scheduling process, including registration steps, testing windows, rescheduling options, and practical tips for managing your timeline effectively.
What Is the CPA Exam Schedule?
Contents
- What Is the CPA Exam Schedule?
- Steps to Schedule the CPA Exam
- CPA Exam Testing Windows
- Rescheduling or Canceling Your Exam
- How to Plan Your CPA Exam Schedule
- Example CPA Exam Schedule
- Practical Tips for Managing Your CPA Exam Schedule
- Common CPA Scheduling Mistakes to Avoid
- Test Day and Beyond
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Bottom Line
The CPA Exam schedule refers to the timeline within which candidates can register, prepare for, and complete the four sections of the exam:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
Unlike traditional exams with fixed dates, the CPA Exam offers flexibility, allowing candidates to take sections at various times throughout the year at Prometric testing centers. This flexibility makes it easier to tailor the exam schedule to individual needs, but it also requires careful planning to stay on track.
Steps to Schedule the CPA Exam
Scheduling the CPA Exam involves several key steps:
#1 Apply for Eligibility
Before scheduling, you must determine your eligibility to sit for the CPA Exam. Each state’s Board of Accountancy has specific requirements, typically including a minimum number of accounting and business course credits. For example, most states require 150 semester hours of education, including 24–30 hours in accounting subjects.
#2 Submit the Application
Once you meet the eligibility criteria, submit your CPA Exam application to your state board. Applications often require:
- Proof of education (transcripts).
- Payment of application fees.
- Documentation of identity.
#3 Receive Your Notice to Schedule (NTS)
Upon approval of your application, you’ll receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS), which is required to book your exam appointments. The NTS is valid for a specific period, typically six months, so plan to schedule and take your exams within this timeframe.
#4 Schedule the Exam with Prometric
Use your NTS to schedule your exam sections through the Prometric website. Select a testing center, choose your preferred dates and times, and confirm your appointment. Seats can fill quickly, especially during peak testing periods, so schedule early for flexibility.
CPA Exam Testing Windows
The CPA Exam is available year-round, with no specific testing windows as of the latest updates. This continuous testing model allows candidates to retake failed sections more quickly than before. However, there are still some key considerations:
- You can only take each section once per testing window (e.g., you cannot retake AUD within the same calendar quarter if you fail).
- Continuous testing provides opportunities for retakes and reduces the stress of waiting for future windows.
Rescheduling or Canceling Your Exam
If your plans change, you can reschedule or cancel your CPA Exam appointment through the Prometric website. The process and associated fees depend on how far in advance you make the change:
- 30+ days before the exam date: No fee for rescheduling.
- 5–30 days before the exam date: A rescheduling fee applies (e.g., $35).
- Less than 5 days before the exam date: You cannot reschedule and will forfeit your exam fees.
To avoid forfeiting fees, review your schedule carefully and adjust appointments as early as possible if needed.
How to Plan Your CPA Exam Schedule
Creating a realistic and effective CPA Exam schedule is critical for success. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
Assess Your Readiness
Before scheduling, evaluate your familiarity with each section’s content. For instance, if you recently completed coursework in auditing, you might schedule AUD first while the material is still fresh.
Allocate Study Time
Plan your study time based on the recommended hours for each section:
- AUD: 80–120 hours
- BEC: 80–100 hours
- FAR: 100–150 hours
- REG: 90–120 hours
Sequence Your Exams Strategically
Some candidates prefer to start with the hardest section (e.g., FAR) to tackle the most challenging material first, while others begin with a section they feel confident in to build momentum. Choose an approach that aligns with your strengths and preferences.
Set Realistic Goals
If you plan to complete all four sections within a year, aim to take one section every two to three months. This timeline allows for adequate preparation and flexibility for retakes if necessary.
Example CPA Exam Schedule
Exam Section | Study Period | Test Date |
FAR | Jan–Mar | Mar 15 |
AUD | Apr–May | May 20 |
REG | Jun–Jul | Jul 25 |
BEC | Aug–Sep | Sep 30 |
Important Deadlines to Remember
- Notice to Schedule Expiration
Your NTS typically expires six months after issuance. Plan to schedule and complete your exams within this timeframe to avoid reapplying and paying additional fees.
- 18-Month Rolling Window
Once you pass your first exam section, you have 18 months to pass the remaining three sections. For example, if you pass FAR on January 15, 2024, you must complete AUD, REG, and BEC by July 15, 2025.
- Score Release Dates
Scores are released periodically throughout the year. Plan your testing dates to align with score release windows, especially if you need to retake a section.
Practical Tips for Managing Your CPA Exam Schedule
Start Early
Begin the scheduling process as soon as you receive your NTS to secure your preferred dates and times. Early scheduling also provides motivation to stick to your study plan.
Avoid Peak Times
Testing centers are busiest toward the end of the year, as many candidates rush to meet deadlines. Schedule your exams during less crowded periods for greater availability and a more relaxed testing environment.
Balance Study and Testing
Don’t cram multiple exams into a short timeframe. Spacing out your exams allows you to focus on mastering one section at a time and reduces burnout.
Prepare for Contingencies
Life happens, and unforeseen events may disrupt your schedule. Build flexibility into your timeline to account for unexpected delays or retakes.
Common CPA Scheduling Mistakes to Avoid
Scheduling All Sections at Once
While it may seem efficient, scheduling all four sections without considering preparation time or personal commitments can lead to unnecessary stress. Schedule one or two sections initially and adjust your plan based on your progress.
Ignoring the 18-Month Window
Failing to complete all sections within the rolling window results in expired scores and the need to retake sections. Track your progress carefully and prioritize remaining sections as needed.
Underestimating Study Time
Rushing to schedule exams without adequate preparation often leads to poor performance. Ensure you allocate sufficient time to cover the exam content thoroughly.
Test Day and Beyond
Arrive at the testing center early on exam day with the required identification and your NTS.
Plan for a smooth check-in process and familiarize yourself with Prometric’s rules and procedures. After completing an exam section, review your performance and adjust your study strategies for upcoming sections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I schedule the CPA Exam?
After receiving your Notice to Schedule (NTS), use the Prometric website to select your preferred exam dates and testing center. Early scheduling is recommended to secure your desired time slots, especially during busy periods.
Can I take all four CPA Exam sections in one testing window?
Yes, you can take all four sections within the same testing window, as there are no restrictions on the number of sections you can schedule. However, ensure you allocate sufficient study time for each section to maximize your chances of success.
What happens if my Notice to Schedule (NTS) expires?
If your NTS expires, you must reapply through your state board of accountancy, which includes paying additional fees. Plan your testing schedule carefully to complete all sections within the NTS validity period, typically six months.
How does the 18-month rolling window work for the CPA Exam?
The 18-month rolling window starts after you pass your first section of the CPA Exam. You must pass the remaining three sections within this timeframe, or you risk losing credit for the section(s) you’ve already passed.
Bottom Line
Creating and managing your CPA Exam schedule is a critical part of the certification process. By understanding the timeline, testing windows, and scheduling rules, you can plan effectively and reduce unnecessary stress.
With careful preparation and strategic scheduling, you’ll be well-positioned to pass all four sections and achieve your goal of becoming a CPA.