About the CPA exam

Before you can be licensed as a Certified Public Accountant in any of the U.S. jurisdictions, you must first pass the CPA exam. 

When and where is the exam offered?
The CPA exam is offered 5 (occasionally 6) days a week during 2 months of each quarter.  These periods, known as "testing windows" include January, February, April, May, July, August, October and November.  The exams are given by computer only and at exam locations specified by the jusrisdiction where you wish to practice.  Visit the Board of Accountancy web site for more information.

What does the exam consists of?
The CPA exam consists of four sections that may be taken on different days and in any order.   You may take an exam for more than one section on any given test day, but you cannot take the exam for the same section more than once a day.

The four sections of the CPA exam are:

Part 1 - Regulation (REG)
The applicant must understand federal taxation, ethics, professional and legal responsibilities, and business law in order to pass this section.  Candidates have three hours to complete the REG test.

Part 2 - Auditing & Attestation (AUD)
This section deals with knowledge of auditing procedures, auditing standards and other standards relating to attest engagements.  Candidates have 4-1/2 hours to complete this section.

Part 3 - Financial Accounting & Reporting (FAR)
This section deals with knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles for business enterprises, not-for-profit organizations and governmental entities.  Maximum time allotted for completion is 4 hours.

Part 4 - Business Environment & Concepts (BEC)
This section covers knowledge of the general business environment and general business concepts, including the underlying business implications of business transactions.  Candidates have 2-1/2 hours to complete this section.

Time limits for passing
Candidates who pass one section usually have 18 months to pass the remaining three sections.  Check with your state board for specific requirements.

Type and number of questions
The REG, AUD and FAR sections are composed of three 24 to 30 multiple-choice "testlets" and 2 simulations, which are condensed case studies.  The BEC section contains just the three multiple-choice testlets.

Improve your score
The most important thing you can do to pass the CPA exam is to undertake a consistent, intensive study program and prepare with MyExamScore simulated CPA exams.  Visit ExamMatrix for information about a highly interactive online CPA study program with a proven track record of success.