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CPA Exam News

CPA News

CPA Exam news comes from many sources. Gleim will help you keep up with all the news and announcements on the CPA Exam.

Stay up-to-date on all the latest updates for the CPA Exam, and learn what the headlines mean for CPA candidates.

Updated June 10, 2024

2024 Q1 CPA Exam Scores are Out!

The AICPA has released CPA Core and Discipline section scores for Q1 2024. Come see how each score stacked up with each other, including one with an incredible pass rate of 82.36% here!

Updated October 6, 2023

Get Back Expired Exam Credit Through New Relief Initiative

Earlier this week, NASBA and the AICPA announced a new program granting eligible candidates an extension of their previously-expired CPA Exam credit. The goal of the Credit Relief Initiative is to help any CPA candidates adversely impacted by the disruption of testing centers during the pandemic. 

If your credit for one or more CPA Exam sections expired between 1/30/2020 and 5/11/2023 and your state board has adopted NASBA’s CBT Administration Committee’s recommendation, you may be eligible to have that credit’s validity extended through 6/30/2025. Candidates who have already replaced their expired credit cannot benefit from this program. 

Each state board must approve and adopt the Credit Relief Initiative individually. Some may choose to adjust the recommended date ranges and other may choose not to adopt the initiative, so be sure to check with your state board for details when they become available.

Discussions about the initiative are slated to continue at state board meetings this fall, and FAQs from NASBA are forthcoming.  Additionally, an interest form should be available soon that interested candidates can use to apply for credit relief. If you have questions, contact your state board or email NASBA at cri@nasba.org

We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available. Don’t miss this special opportunity to get back your expired CPA Exam credit!

Updated August 23, 2023

Last Chance to Take BEC!

We’ve said it before and we’re saying it again: Take BEC in 2023.

NASBA recently published a chart that details exactly when candidates must apply by to take BEC. Details for every state are available below, and NASBA will be posting more information soon on their website.

BEC is widely considered the easiest section of the CPA Exam, so whether it’s your first section or your fourth, there’s no reason to skip BEC in 2023. Most first-timers must apply by October 1, 2023, but there is some variation depending on which jurisdiction you’re applying in (see chart below). 

Our Personal Counselors are here and ready to help you if you’re unsure where to start. We want to see you succeed, which is why we highly recommend passing the easiest section of the CPA Exam while it still exists. There’s still time to earn your credit if you start now, and you’ll get to skip the new Disciplines coming with CPA Evolution

Updated July 17, 2023

New CPA Evolution Practice Tests Available!

The AICPA recently released a game-changing tool: CPA Evolution practice tests.
 
These are the first of their kind, straight from the exam’s creator, and an incredible opportunity to familiarize yourself with updated CPA Exam content. According to the AICPA, the sample test includes questions from all sections, including the new CPA Evolution disciplines, and will let you know the correct answers. 
 
We recommend sitting for as many sections of the exam as you can in 2023, starting with BEC, and are here to help you prepare. If you’re testing after CPA Evolution though (or just curious), this is a great tool to practice answering CPA Evolution questions ahead of time.
 
Access your free CPA Evolution practice test soon!
Updated February 22, 2023

NASBA announces potential change to the Uniform Accountancy Act Model Rules

This proposed change would alter the current 18-month time period to pass all parts of the CPA Exam to 24-months; giving candidates more time to get through their exams. The draft to the proposed change can be found hereOpens in new window.
This rule is not in effect yet. NASBA is encouraging State Boards and other interested parties to consider these proposed changes and send any comments or recommendations to the UAA Committee via uaacomments@nasba.org until April 17, 2023.
We will continue to monitor this situation, and the accounting profession as a whole, and inform you of any changes that you need to be aware of.
Updated November 3, 2022

CPA Evolution: Tentative Key Dates Announced

NASBA just shared critical info for anyone planning to take the CPA Exam at the end of next year and beyond. All of the dates mentioned below are subject to change, but they’re extremely important to be aware because they may affect your plans.

What we know

The current CPA Exam

You won’t be able to take BEC at the end of 2023.

  • November 15, 2023 is the last day that the NASBA Gateway system will process Authorizations to Test and Notices to Schedule (NTS) for BEC.
  • That means Boards of Accountancy will have to set application deadlines for BEC sometime before then
  • Those dates will be published on NASBA’s website when they’re available, and we’ll keep you updated.

The last day to sit for AUD, FAR, and REG before CPA Evolution is December 15, 2023!

That means if you pass all four sections of the CPA Exam before December 15, 2023, you shouldn’t be affected by any of the other content or administration changes.

The CPA Exam will not be offered between December 16, 2023 and January 9, 2024, so that testing centers can get ready to administer the 2024 CPA Exam.

After CPA Evolution

The new exam, with all of the CPA Evolution changes, will be offered beginning January 10, 2024.

  • Core sections (AUD, FAR, and REG) will be offered through March 26, 2024.
    • Authorizations to Test and NTSs for these Core sections will be continuously processed.
  • Discipline sections (BAR, ISC, and TCP) will be offered through February 6, 2024.
    • Authorizations to Test and NTSs for Discipline sections will not be processed until November 22, 2023.

The Boards of Accountancy are considering extending credit for any passed sections that candidates have on January 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

  • 39 have already approved the policy.
  • NASBA has a map they are keeping up to date.

Boards of Accountancy are also considering changing when the 18-month rolling window for CPA Exam credit begins.

  • Currently, many boards use the date a candidate sits for and passes their first CPA Exam section.
  • The change would move the date to when NASBA or the state board release the passing score to the candidate.

What’s next? 

Learn more about CPA Evolution and the transition policy. 

Check out NASBA’s FAQ about CPA Evolution, the transition policy, and more. 

Updated July 1, 2022

CPA Evolution Blueprints Now Available in Draft Form!

On June 28, 2022, the AICPA released an Exposure Draft (ED) that contains tentative CPA Evolution Blueprints for public comment. Learn what’s coming on our CPA Evolution Update page!

Updated April 7, 2022

CPA Exam Changes Coming with CPA Evolution

We met with the AICPA on Tuesday where they shared the infrastructure changes coming to the CPA Exam on January 1, 2024, because of CPA Evolution.

Here are the highlights:

  • Excel is being removed and candidates will instead use SpreadJS, a JavaScript-based spreadsheet tool
  • Written Communications are being removed from the CPA Exam entirely
  • Research Task-Based Simulations (and the Authoritative Literature tool used to answer them) are being removed from the CPA Exam entirely
    • To test the same skills, excerpts from the Authoritative Literature may be included as some number of exhibits
  • In the MCQs, testlet difficulty will not be determined by your performance in the prior MCQ testlet

For more information, check out AICPA’s announcement.Opens in new window

Updated February 25, 2022

NASBA Announces Transition Policy for CPA Evolution Candidates

CPA Evolution is coming January 2024, and NASBA today announcedOpens in new window their transition policy for CPA Candidates.

NASBA’s goal is to ensure that CPA candidates are not penalized for exam sections already passed within their 18-month window and that exam costs are not increased.

If you’re just starting to think about earning your CPA, you may find yourself starting your exam under the model and finishing under CPA Evolution. Check out our CPA Evolution Update to find out how it will affect you!

Updated September 2, 2021

NASBA expands CPA testing in East Asia

NASBA announced they have expanded available locations to test for the CPA Exam in East Asia. The Republic of Korea is now available for testing for some countries, and the number of countries that can test in Japan will increase.

From NASBA:

“ To support you on your pathway to CPA licensure, we are now extending administration of the Exam in the Republic of Korea and Japan on a permanent basis to all eligible candidates . . . .

Qualified candidates may schedule to take any U.S. CPA Exam section in Japan or the Republic of Korea. CPA candidates may also schedule their Exam sections at the Guam Prometric Test Center as it remains open and available for testing.”

 

We’ll keep you posted on any additional changes as they are announced.

To test in Japan or the Republic of Korea, candidates must be deemed eligible and have valid citizenship or long-term residency in the following countries:

  • China
  • Hong Kong
  • Japan
  • Macau
  • Mongolia
  • Republic of Korea
  • Republic of Singapore
  • Republic of the Philippines
  • Taiwan
  • United States of America

If you are interested in sitting at an international testing center, you must pay an examination administration fee before scheduling with Prometric. You can do so through your NASBA CPA Candidates Account portalOpens in new window by selecting “International Administration.”

August 20, 2021

NASBA’s Gateway System and CPA Central scheduled outage

On Saturday, August 21, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST, NASBA’s Gateway and CPA Central systems will be down for scheduled maintenance. CPA Exam candidates will not have access during this time.

If you are scheduled to take the CPA Exam during this time, please print or download your Notice to Schedule (NTS) form before the scheduled outage. If you do not have your NTS, you will not be able to test.

If you were emailed your NTS, be sure to save it and print it out as a backup.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

Updated August 13, 2021

Prometric begins phasing out COVID-19 restrictions

UPDATE: As of August 13, 2021, Prometric will continue to require all test takers to bring and wear a mask during the entirety of their time at the test center or their exam will be terminated.

Beginning August 2, 2021, Prometric will begin returning to or amending standard operating procedures that were in place prior to the pandemic or created as a result of the pandemic. This return to normal will be implemented in phases.

Note: Should government guidance regress and become more restrictive, Prometric will realign its procedures with government restrictions to ensure the safety of candidates and test center staff.

Over the coming weeks and months, candidates are encouraged to visit Prometric’s COVID-19 Updates Opens in new window page, Test Center Policies Opens in new window, What to Expect Opens in new window, and FAQ Portal Opens in new window often for the latest test procedure updates. We will also keep you updated so you can focus on taking and passing your exams!

Phase I – Effective August 2, 2021

Phase I will include the following procedural changes:

  • Prometric will continue to abide by government restrictions, where applicable.
  • Providing hand sanitizer for test takers and staff.
  • Retaining virtual walkthroughs.
  • Posting test center regulations on the wall in high traffic areas of test centers.
  • No longer recording the last 4 digits of ID numbers presented on candidate sign-in logs.
  • Empowering Prometric staff to enter check-in and check-out times for candidates exiting the testing lab.

Additionally, Prometric will re-implement various standard procedures (where allowed) during Phase I, resulting in the following updates to its test center operations:

  • Cleaning test centers at the close of business rather than after every exam administered.
  • Not requiring candidates to raise their hands to leave the testing room.
  • Removing social-distancing markers throughout the test center.
  • Reducing distance for candidate photos.
  • Returning all chairs and/or benches in the test center waiting rooms.
  • Scanning test takers with a handheld metal detection device prior to entering the testing room (with the exception of exempt individuals).
  • Reverting to having candidates sign-in at reception and eyeglass check at the security checkpoint.
  • Returning to the three-color locker key tag policy to enforce client-specific locker access policies during an exam.
  • Enabling use of water fountains and water dispensers, where applicable.
  • Removing the requirement for candidate IDs in zip lock bags.
  • Using a single roster for sign-in and sign-out.

Phase II – Effective September 1, 2021

Phase II of Prometric’s return to modified test center operations will include the following:

  • No longer accepting IDs that are more than 90 days expired. Prometric will continue to accept IDs that have expired within 90 days of the exam date for the interim.

Prometric’s mask policy

While Prometric is requiring face coverings, in some states, executive orders prohibit government agencies and institutions of higher education, respectively, and their officials from mandating face coverings or restricting activities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Where Prometric operates test centers on state university campuses where these policies have been enacted, we follow local mandates where they allow candidates to test without a mask. In these sites, candidates will still be allowed to wear masks according to their comfort level at these sites, but masks will not be mandatory.

Both medical masks or cloth face coverings are acceptable. Masks with exhale/one-way valves are prohibited to use at the testing center, due to the lack of viral particle filtration provided by these masks. Any test taker that comes to the test center without a mask will not be allowed to test, marked as a “no show,” and will not be eligible for a free reschedule.

The full announcement from NASBA can be found on their blog Opens in new window, and additional information can be found on Prometric’s COVID-19 FAQ Opens in new window. As usual, we will continue to keep you updated as new information is announced.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

Updated August 11, 2021

Continuous Testing for the CPA Exam Released by NASBA, AICPA and Prometric

The CPA Exam started Continuous Testing on July 1, 2020. Plans for the new testing model were originally announced last May, and more information about its accelerated implementation will be coming in the next few weeks.

What is Continuous Testing?

Continuous Testing functions just as it sounds. The CPA Exam will no longer be offered four times a year during testing windows. Beginning July 1, candidates can test year-round. This change helps CPA candidates pass the CPA Exam faster and reduce the risk of losing credit for sections due to time constraints.

Candidates who fail an exam section will be able to retake that section as soon as they get their new NTS. No more waiting for another window!

Which state boards will implement Continuous Testing?

As of August 6, 51 jurisdictions have already implemented Continuous testing. NASBA expects an additional two jurisdictions to do so later this year. Only one board (South Carolina) is not expected to offer Continuous Testing until 2021.

States and jurisdictions with continuous testing in place

The states and jurisdictions below have implemented Continuous Testing as of July 1. We will update this list as more information becomes available.

  • Alabama
  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • CNMI
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • District of Columbia
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Guam
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Puerto Rico
  • Rhode Island
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • U.S. Virgin Islands
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • West Viriginia
  • Wyoming

States and jurisdictions where legislative transition is in progress

Only South Carolina is still preparing and fully expected to enact Continuous Testing. We will update this list as more information becomes available.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

Updated June 16, 2021

CPA Exam administration extended in Canada

In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, NASBA and the AICPA will administer the U.S. CPA Exam in Canada at approved Prometric test centers until further notice. This has been extended from the previous deadline of June 30, 2021.

Canadian candidates may schedule to take any U.S. CPA Exam section in approved Prometric test centers in Canada. You can find available testing centers and appointments through Prometric’s Seat Availability Tool.

Note: All eligible CPA candidates wishing to take the U.S. CPA Exam in Canada must review and acknowledge the informed consent documentation. You can acknowledge your informed consent through an electronic form.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

May 26, 2021

Prometric Reinstates Biometric Procedures

Beginning June 7, 2021, Prometric will reinstate fingerprint and ID scans in all test centers. Biometric procedures were suspended last year due to the pandemic, but after an updated review of test center safety protocols with Johns Hopkins University, they will be reinstated with the following additions:

  1. All test takers will be required to use hand sanitizer before using a device.
  2. Prometric staff will clean devices after each use.

To complete an ID scan, candidates will need to briefly lower or remove their masks. Per Prometric, “to help ensure social distancing is still maintained, test center staff have been trained on how to assist test takers in using fingerprint scanners and ID scan from an appropriate distance.”

View the latest Prometric Test Center PoliciesOpens in new window.

If you have questions or concerns, the NASBA Examinations Team encourages you to contact them at cpaexam@nasba.org.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

May 3, 2021

NASBA opens testing locations in Israel and Saudi Arabia

NASBA announced that they have expanded available locations to test for the CPA Exam in the Middle East. Prometric test centers in Tel Aviv, Israel, and in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar, Saudi Arabia, will administer the CPA Exam starting May 5, 2021.

To test in Israel and Saudi Arabia, as well as other Middle East countries where testing is already available, candidates must be deemed eligible and have valid citizenship or long-term residency in one of the following countries:

  • Bahrain
  • Egypt
  • India
  • Israel
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Lebanon
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Qatar
  • Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE)
  • United States of America
  • Yemen

To test in an international location, you must first select a participating U.S. jurisdiction, contact the Board of Accountancy (or its designee) in that jurisdiction to obtain application materials, and submit a completed application and required fees as instructed. After receiving the Notice to Schedule (NTS), you may then use the NTS to apply to take the Exam in an international location.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

December 22, 2020

Additional Extensions of CPA Exam Credit

As we approach the December 31, 2020, expiration for many CPA Exam credit and NTS extensions, some state boards are making adjustments. A handful of states have extended CPA Exam credit expiration to March 30 or June 30, 2021, but there have not been any updates to NTS extensions at this time.

Check our Coronavirus update page and the NASBA NTS and exam credit extension resources for updates. Contact your state board of accountancy with any questions about NTS extensions, exam credit extensions, or other issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

November 20, 2020

AICPA releases new Blueprints effective July 1, 2021

The AICPA has just released a Final Report based on the Practice Analysis they conducted in 2019, alongside changes to the CPA Exam Blueprints effective next summer. The sections most heavily affected are AUD and BEC. These changes are to ensure newly-licensed CPAs are able to perform the duties assigned to them.

The CPA Exam continues to assess higher-order skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical ability. There are no changes to score weighting, testing time, or the number of CPA Exam questions.

The changes to AUD and BEC are as follows:

AUD content weighting changes

  • Area II (Assessing Risk and Developing a Planned Response) increased from 20%-30% of the section to 25%-35%.
  • Area IV (Forming Conclusions and Reporting) decreased from 15%-25% of the section to 10%-20%.

AUD skill weighting changes

  • The number of questions tested at the Remembering and Understanding level decreased from 30%-40% to 25%-35%.
  • The number of questions tested at the Analysis level increased from 15%-25% to 20%-30%.

BEC content weighting changes

  • Area I (Enterprise Risk Management, Internal Controls and Business Processes) increased from 17%-27% of the section to 20%-30%.
  • Area II (Economics) decreased from 17%-27% of the section to 15%-25%.
  • Area III (Financial Management) decreased from 11%-21% of the section to 10%-20%.

What do these changes mean for me?

These changes will not be tested until July 1, 2021, so you still have time to pass the affected sections if you start now. More questions in AUD will test you at a higher level, so AUD will definitely get more difficult. It’s a good idea to try to pass AUD before the changes go live.

The changes to BEC appear relatively minor, but just in case, we recommend taking it now if you have time. With Continuous Testing now available, getting started today will ensure you have enough time to take both sections before July 1, but if you have to pick one, we recommend passing AUD first.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

November 4, 2020

Continuous Testing in India begins January 1, 2021

Earlier this year, the AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric announced the CPA pilot test in India. Despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, the test has received very positive feedback, so they are expanding the program to allow for Continuous Testing, a new testing model that began to be adopted in July of this year.

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric are bringing Continuous Testing to India starting January 1, 2021, but candidates may begin to use the scheduler now. Continuous Testing will replace the existing limited CPA Exam Testing Window model, which only permits candidates to test in India during designated periods. Under the Continuous Testing model, candidates have the ability to schedule to take CPA Exam sections at any time with two minor restrictions:

  • If you are interested in retaking a CPA Exam section, you must wait to schedule until you have received your score from your prior attempt. CPA Exam scores are released on dates set by the AICPA, and there are usually one or two score release dates each month.
  • When major changes are made to the CPA Exam, the exam will not be offered while it is being updated. The exam’s unavailability will be widely broadcast in advance, and the downtime is expected to be much shorter than the Testing Window model that is being replaced.

All of the U.S. Boards of Accountancy support the move to bring Continuous Testing to India, as it positions candidates to retake sections while the information is still fresh in their mind and may reduce the time needed to complete all four sections of the CPA Exam.

Before scheduling your exam in India, ensure that your state board already transitioned to the Continuous Testing model. Several Accountancy Boards have not yet shifted to Continuous Testing and still operate under the old Testing Window model, which only allows candidates to sit for each section once per calendar quarter.

For more information on Continuous Testing, check out this new blog post!

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

October 14, 2020

NASBA expands CPA testing in Egypt and Jordan

NASBA is expanding available testing locations for the CPA Exam in the Middle East. Testing will be available in both Egypt and Jordan effective November 2, 2020.

From NASBA:

“Starting October 26, 2020, qualified candidates may begin applying to take any section of the U.S. CPA Exam under the Continuous Testing model. Candidates may also begin scheduling their Exam with Prometric on November 2, 2020.”

To test in Egypt and Jordan, as well as the other Middle East countries where testing is already available, candidates must be deemed eligible and have valid citizenship or long-term residency in one of the following countries:

  • Bahrain
  • Egypt
  • India
  • Jordan
  • Kuwait
  • Lebanon
  • Oman
  • Pakistan
  • Qatar
  • Saudi Arabia
  • United States of America
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE)
  • Yemen

If you are interested in sitting at an international testing center, you must pay an examination administration fee before scheduling with Prometric. You can do so through your NASBA CPA Candidates Account portal by selecting “International Administration.” For specific questions concerning international testing, candidates can reach out to NASBA at cpaexam@nasba.org.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

July 29, 2020

India CPA Exam pilot test extended

Since the pilot test began June 1, over 600 candidates have sat for the CPA Exam in India. There are over 1,000 candidates currently registered for September, and more are expected to register in the coming weeks.

Due to this success, and to make it easier for candidates to test during the COVID-19 pandemic, the AICPA has expanded testing to December 1 through December 31. The AICPA has already begun notifying candidates they may begin scheduling their exam for this period. Originally, candidates were only able to test in June and September 2020.

The AICPA is asking candidates who have participated or who wish to participate in the pilot to fill out a survey, which will help the AICPA decide where and how to administer the exam in the future.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

July 21, 2020

Prometric reinstating cancellation and rescheduling fees

In March, Prometric waived all cancellation and rescheduling fees for the CPA Exam due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning August 1, 2020, these fees will be reinstated.

Prometric is still working to assist candidates in areas impacted by the pandemic.

Candidates who have appointments canceled or rescheduled as a result of continued test site closures or regional restrictions will not be penalized. If your exam appointment is impacted due to site closures or regional restrictions, you will receive an email notification informing you that your appointment has either been

  1. Rescheduled, and you will be provided with your new test date and location, or
  2. Canceled, and you will be provided with instructions on how to reschedule.

Candidates who are unable to test due to COVID-19 illness or impact after August 1 should contact Prometric using their “Contact Us” form and choose “Request a Refund.” Prometric will respond to you individually. Because of the high volume of inquiries they are receiving, they estimate it will take between 5 and 7 days for you to receive a response.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

June 10, 2020

AICPA announces target score release dates for 2020 Continuous Testing

Continuous Testing will begin July 1, 2020, and as a result, the timeline for when CPA Exam scores are released has changed.

The target dates below may be changed or delayed by your state board.Scores for the BEC exam may be delayed for human review as well. Be sure to check NASBA or your state board frequently if you are expecting a score but have not yet received it.

If you take your exam on/before: Your target score release date is:
July 23 August 7
August 16 August 25
September 8 September 16
September 30 October 9
October 23 November 10
November 16 November 24
December 8 December 16
December 31 January 12

This information allows candidates to plan their studies and scheduling of their exams. With Continuous Testing, candidates can reapply for an exam as soon as they know their score from the previously unsuccessful attempt.

While it can be tempting to sit for your exam as close to the cut-off date as possible, since you will only have 18 months to pass all four exams, Gleim still recommends candidates sit as soon as they feel comfortable doing so. You can read more scheduling strategies on our CPA Resource Center.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

Updated: May 27, 2020

State boards release information on Score Credit Extension

As most of the world begins to reopen and rebuild in the wake of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, state boards are starting to meet, either in person or virtually, and make decisions regarding the CPA Exam. So far, most states have announced their plans to help candidates affected by Prometric closures, and more are expected to follow.

Most states are granting extensions with no action required by CPA candidates. If you have questions, contact your state board directly.

Gleim will update this list as more information becomes available. Check NASBA’s Exam Credit Extension or our COVID-19 update page for the most recent updates.

Alabama

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Alaska

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Arizona

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Arkansas

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

California

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Colorado

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Connecticut

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Delaware

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

District of Colombia

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Florida

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Georgia

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Guam

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Hawaii

The Board meets June 2020 to discuss extending credit expiration dates.

Idaho

On April 28, 2020, the Idaho Board made a proclamation already sent to candidates that Board staff has the authority to grant credit extensions in 90-day increments for exams passed that are expiring due to COVID-19-related matters including, but not limited to, illness, the closure of a testing site, or the unavailability of seats in an open site. This proclamation is in effect through the governor’s current orders relating to COVID-19 or any further order from the governor.

Illinois

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Indiana

The Board will review requests for credit extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Iowa

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Kansas

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Kentucky

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Louisiana

The Board will review requests for credit extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Maine

Exam credits that would have expired between March 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Maryland

The Board will review requests for credit extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Massachusetts

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and June 30 have been extended to September 30.

Michigan

The Board will review requests for credit extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Minnesota

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Mississippi

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Missouri

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Montana

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Nebraska

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Nevada

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

New Hampshire

The Board has granted 120-day extensions for parts passed prior to March 17, 2020. The order expires July 14, 2020, and they may decide to provide further extensions after this date.

New Jersey

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and June 30 have been extended 90 days.

New Mexico

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

New York

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and September 30 have been extended to December 31. You do not need to contact the Board.

Any candidates affected by COVID-19 (e.g., due to travel restrictions or test center closures) during the first quarter of 2020 will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. You must contact the Board Office at CPABD@nysed.gov and include your full legal name, jurisdiction, and candidate ID, as well as an explanation of how you were impacted in quarter 1.

North Carolina

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and June 30 have been extended 90 days. The expiration date will update automatically; there is no need to contact the Board at this time.
Section credits expiring after June 30, 2020, will be reviewed by the Board on a case-by-case basis. Please email your questions about the section credit extensions to Phyllis Elliott, Exam Specialist, at phyllise@nccpaboard.gov.

North Dakota

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Ohio

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Oklahoma

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Oregon

Exam credits that would have expired between March 15 and June 30 have been extended to September 30. Section credits expiring after September 30, 2020, will be reviewed by the Board on a case-by-case basis.

Pennsylvania

Exam credits that would have expired during the outbreak will be granted an extension lasting for the duration of the emergency, plus an additional 180 days from the end of the emergency.

  • This extension will replace the 90-day extension that was recently granted to CPA candidates by way of letter from the Board.

Puerto Rico

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Rhode Island

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

South Carolina

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

South Dakota

The Board will review requests for credit extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Tennessee

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Texas

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Utah

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Vermont

The Board will review requests for credit extensions on a case-by-case basis.

Virginia

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Virgin Islands

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and June 30 have been extended 90 days.

Washington

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

West Virginia

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and December 30 have been extended to December 31.

Wisconsin

Exam credits that would have expired beginning April 9 have been extended 24 months. If the public health emergency ends, the Exam credit window would go back to 18-months.

Wyoming

Exam credits that would have expired between April 1 and August 31 have been extended 90 days.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

May 22, 2020

NASBA and state boards release additional NTS extensions

Many states have elected to extend candidates’ NTSs beyond September 30, 2020, the date originally announced in March by NASBA. Check the charts below, NASBA’s NTS Extensions page, and our COVID page for updates.

States and territories with additional extension If your NTS would expire April 1, 2020, to December 30, 2020, it is valid until December 31, 2020.
Alabama Guam Nevada South Dakota
Alaska Hawaii New Mexico Tennessee
Arizona Illinois New York Texas
Arkansas Iowa North Carolina Utah
California Kansas North Dakota Vermont
Colorado Kentucky Ohio Virginia
Connecticut Louisiana Oklahoma Washington
Delaware Minnesota Pennsylvania West Virginia
District of Columbia Mississippi Puerto Rico  
Florida Missouri Rhode Island  
Georgia Montana South Carolina  

 

States and territories with original extension If your NTS would expire April 1, 2020, to June 30, 2020, it is valid until September 30, 2020.
Indiana Michigan Oregon
Maine Nebraska Virgin Islands
Maryland New Hampshire Wyoming
Massachusetts New Jersey

Idaho is the exception. On April 28, 2020, the Idaho Board sent a Proclamation to candidates stating Board staff will be providing 90- to 180-day extensions as needed, and any extensions beyond 180 days will require board ratification. This provision will be discussed at the next Board meeting on June 4, 2020, and continued or expanded if necessary.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

Updated: April 30, 2020

Prometric Releases Special Notice about Coronavirus

Prometric is continuing to watch the impact COVID-19 is having on their testing centers and is releasing new information as it becomes available. Prometric has monitored, and will continue to monitor, information provided by global health organizations, local governmental policies, corporate policies, and input from testing partners and candidates.

Updates about Prometric test centers

Test centers will be evaluated for closure on a case-by-case basis.

A Message from Prometric

As of May 1, Prometric started opening exam centers for essential testing around the world. Candidates can check to see if their test site is open or scheduled to reopen on the Prometric site openings page. Open status of these sites is based on numerous factors or guidelines, and should anything force Prometric to close a test center, impacted candidates will be contacted by email. Prometric is updating this list daily to reflect any changes in status.

If your CPA Exam has been canceled or rescheduled as a result of Prometric’s Coronavirus precautions, they will email you as soon as possible to inform you of any changes to your exam and the next steps you should take. For additional information on rescheduling, refunds, and other impacts to candidates, please click here.

Please note that Prometric is experience a high volume of inquiries related to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Candidate Care phone line has been temporarily disabled, but Prometric encourages candidates to reach out via their “Contact Us” page to request a chat or email.

April 30, 2020 Update

Prometric and NASBA released new information regarding testing reopening on May 1. Testing may not reopen in all areas, as Prometric is still working with local governments to ensure candidate safety. Additionally, Prometric is implementing safety guidelines to enforce social distancing during tests, and individual centers may take some time to adjust.

Prometric is reopening 116 test centers globally, with plans to open an additional 200+ site throughout May. Candidates should be flexible rescheduling their exams, but since Prometric test centers are only open to essential exams, candidates are competing for slots with fewer test takers. For a list of test centers that are reopening, please visit Prometric.

Prometric continues to communicate to candidates about the status of their exams, primarily through email. Prometric phone lines are currently disabled, and candidates are encouraged to communicate through online tools, such as chat and email.

Candidates looking to test need to bring their own face mask. These masks can be medical or homemade and must be worn during the entire visit. If you do not bring your own mask, you will not be allowed to test, you will be marked as a “no show,” and you will not be eligible for a free reschedule. Read the updated Social Distancing Testing Procedures put out by Prometric.

CPA candidates should continue to watch Prometric’s COVID-19 update page and NASBA’s FAQs about scheduling. They will continue to update these pages and add information to them with each future update.

April 23, 2020 Update

Testing for CPA candidates will resume, gradually, beginning May 1. Prometric reported earlier that it was extending test center closures in many areas the U.S. and Canada through May 31 in accordance with local and federal governance, as well as advice from the CDC and WHO. But in areas minimally impacted by the virus, certain test centers will reopen as it becomes prudent. It was also reported that Prometric was checking with exam sponsors to determine if certain exams could be considered essential.

As of later today, NASBA announced that the CPA Exam is deemed an “essential service program” by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency  (CISA), resulting in CPA candidates being able to resume testing if Prometric is able to reasonably guarantee candidate safety.

Social distancing guidelines and other safety measures will be implemented to ensure candidate safety. This may reduce the number of candidates able to test at a given time. Prometric will be contacting candidates with May appointments to confirm or cancel appointments as necessary.

For more information, check out the NASBA update or the Prometric update, and use Prometric’s website to find out whether a test center is opening near you.

April 22, 2020 Update

Many test centers in mainland China were opened as of April 20 following guidance from the Chinese government. Additional procedures have been implemented to ensure candidate safety.

Many other international locations are still closed. The U.S. and Canada test centers remain closed through April 30. For a complete list of test center closures, please see the Prometric site closure page.

April 10, 2020 Update

In light of the evolving Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, Prometric is ensuring the health and safety of its staff and customers. They continue to follow rules from local, state, and federal governments as well as recommendations from the CDC and WHO.

Earlier this year, Prometric made the decision to close their U.S. and Canada based test centers through April 16th. Prometric will extend the closure of test centers in the U.S. and Canada through April 30.

Prometric will be emailing and waiving exam rescheduling fees for those impacted by this change. You can still search for available appointments on Prometric’s website. NASBA has already extended all NTS expirations between April 1, 2020, and June 30, 2020, to September 3. 2020.

For other testing locations, Prometric is still updating their Test Center Closures page.

April 2, 2020 Update

Prometric is still considering options to keep both staff and exam candidates safe. They will continue to monitor local governments and CDC guidelines to maintain a safe environment. Test center closures are still being considered on a regional and case-by-case basis.

At this time, Prometric anticipates continuing with their plans to reopen their U.S. and Canadian test centers on April 16th. They will provide more information as early as possible if this changes.

Most candidates should have received emails regarding rescheduling their exams as applicable. Prometric is waiving rescheduling fees at this time.

March 17, 2020 Update

Prometric has temporarily closed Test Centers in the United States and Canada from March 18, 2020 for 30 days. If you have an existing appointment with Prometric, you will receive email instructions on how to reschedule your appointment to a future date once it is safe to resume testing.  No rescheduling fees will be applied. Please note that if you choose to contact Prometric for assistance, hold times may be extended due to the volume of individuals.

If an extension of your NTS is required in order to reschedule, candidates will be referred to NASBA’s Candidate Care Department at candidatecare@nasba.org.

March 13, 2020 Update

For a complete list of testing locations that are closed in other parts of the world, due to the virus or other factors, please check out the Prometric page. Some test centers in the following areas are closed:

  • Belgium
  • China
  • Cyprus
  • France
  • Italy
  • Malta
  • Middle East
    • Bahrain
    • Kuwait
    • Qatar
    • Saudi Arabia
    • United Arab Emirates
  • Poland
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • United Kingdom

Candidate safety

Prometric has reviewed and reinforced policies to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus at test centers. This includes ensuring surfaces and devices that are commonly touched by customers (such as keyboards, computer mice, biometric touch chip devices) are regularly cleaned and sanitized.

Prometric will also provide disposable wipes and allow candidates to use medical masks and gloves while testing. If you do choose to use a mask or gloves, note that test center staff may need to visually inspect these items.

Reminders for candidates

Regardless of your current exam schedule, you will want to make sure you protect yourself and those around you from the virus.

  • Review the CDC’s Steps to Prevent Illness
  • Limit the amount of time spent in close contact with other people, especially large groups.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Stay home if you are sick unless you are seeking medical care.
  • Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

April 2, 2020

NASBA announces temporary expansion of U.S. CPA Exam testing to India

Safety precautions that restrict travel are making it difficult for international candidates to sit for the CPA Exam. In response to candidate concerns, NASBA has announced plans to administer the exam at many Prometric Test centers in India.

Starting today, candidates eligible to sit in India can schedule their exams for June or September of 2020. Testing is currently limited to these months as a trial. If, due to the Coronavirus, Prometric Test Centers have not reopened by that date, NASBA and Prometric will reevaluate. No information is available at this time about plans to open these centers for testing after September.
Gleim will keep you updated.

Test centers available for testing

The CPA Exam will be available at India test centers in the following eight cities:

  • Ahmedabad
  • Bangalore
  • Calcutta
  • Chennai
  • Hyderabad
  • Mumbai
  • New Delhi
  • Trivandrum

If you have already paid the international administration fee for another region and wish to switch to India, email NASBA at iexam@nasba.org with the following information:There is an international administration fee due before you are able to schedule with Prometric. Log into your NASBA CPA Candidate Account portal, select “International Administration,” then select “India” to proceed.

  • Name
  • Jurisdiction
  • Jurisdiction ID
  • Exam Section
  • Exam Section ID
  • Current International Testing Country
  • New International Testing Country.

Candidates eligible to test in India

To take the CPA Exam in India, you must be an eligible CPA Exam candidate and a citizen or a long-term resident of one of the following countries:

  • Bangladesh
  • Bhutan
  • India
  • Maldives
  • Myanmar
  • Nepal
  • Sri Lanka
  • USA

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

March 27, 2020

Emergency testing period for CPA candidates

To provide candidates with additional testing opportunities,NASBA, the AICPA, and Prometric have opened an emergency testing period. The 2020 Q2 testing window is being extended from June 10, 2020, to June 30, 2020.

Additionally,

  • NASBA will extend all Notices to Schedule (NTSs) that would otherwise expire between April 1 and June 30 until September 30.
  • NASBA will identify candidates with exam credit currently slated to expire before June 30 and make extension recommendations to State Boards of Accountancy.
  • Prometric test centers are currently expected to reopen in mid-April.
  • Prometric will waive all rescheduling fees.

There is no need to contact your State Board at this time.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

February 17, 2020

AICPA Releases Potential Changes to the CPA Exam in 2021

In 2019, the AICPA conducted a Practice Analysis of the CPA profession. It explored the impact that technology had on the CPA profession and determined areas where the CPA Exam could be updated to better tests those skills. This article will discuss the findings of the AICPA 2019 Practice Analysis and what changes you can expect on the CPA Exam over the next two years.

NOTE: None of the proposed changes have been finalized yet. All of the information in this article is subject to change as the AICPA further refines their plans for the CPA Exam.

Summary of important changes and dates

According to the Practice Analysis, the following dates are important to keep in mind:

  • April 2020 – New CPA Exam Blueprints to be released

  • October 2020 – Heavier emphasis on Excel and Data Analytics to be tested in AUD

  • January 2021 – New CPA Exam Blueprints are expected to show the changes from the Practice Analysis

  • July 2021 – Changes from the January CPA Exam Blueprint to take effect

  • 2022 – Written communications removed from BEC and State and Local Government topics removed from FAR

What do these changes mean for CPA candidates?

Candidates can largely be split into two groups for these changes: those who intend to test before these changes take effect and those who will test afterwards. Regardless of which camp you fall into, Gleim is here to help.

Taking the CPA Exam Before It Changes

(Recommended)

Taking the CPA Exam After It Changes

  • The soonest the CPA Exam will experience changes is October 2020, so you have plenty of time to take all four parts of the CPA Exam before the new changes take effect.
  • Most of the proposed changes are to AUD and BEC, so prioritize passing those sections of the CPA Exam first.
  • REG will likely be the least effected by the proposed changes, so delaying your REG CPA Exam to complete AUD, BEC, or FAR is a safe bet.
  • If you would like help on deciding which CPA Exam to take first, check out our resource discussing that exact topic.
  • The CPA Exam isn’t getting harder, it is just changing focus to be more relevant to industry trends.
  • Gleim will keep you updated on all current CPA Exam news, so you can rest assured that you’ll be well informed on what exactly is changing on the CPA Exam.
  • If you’ve already purchased our Premium CPA Review, your materials will always be up-to-date for the CPA Exam, regardless of what changes.
  • Don’t worry– this isn’t the first time the CPA Exam has undergone significant changes, and Gleim has been around for all of them.

Why is the CPA Exam changing?

Based on the findings of the AICPA, technology and data analytics are becoming even more present in today’s accounting world. This means that CPAs are increasingly called upon to make use of modern tools and data. As a result, the AICPA must ensure that the CPA Exam is adequately testing what entry-level CPAs are expected to know to be prepared to meet the industry’s needs and the expectations of their employers.

To learn more about why the CPA Exam changes, visit our CPA Exam Changes page.

What is a Practice Analysis?

A practice analysis is a study conducted on the current positions that CPAs fill and the expectations placed upon them. Every few years, the AICPA works with industry leaders and practicing CPAs to see what the current trends in accounting are and to determine how the organization can best adapt to meet those trends.

NOTE: The results of a Practice Analysis are not always definitive and often take time to implement. The CPA Exam is likely not changing significantly until July 2021.

Do we know how the CPA Exam will change?

No changes have been finalized yet. The AICPA released an exposure draft and will be collecting comments until April 30th. These comments will then be factored in before any changes are officially announced.

However, based on the current draft, we can see a few possible changes that may be coming in the future:

  • The AUD and BEC sections of the CPA Exam will likely receive the greatest impact from the technology and data analytics changes.

    • These changes will focus on ensuring newly licensed CPAs are digitally focused and able to understand business processes, automation, risks, and internal controls.

    • Furthermore, the changes will likely include a greater emphasis on data analytics, which could become effective as early as October 2020.

  • Written communications could be removed from BEC.

  • Data management, governance, and data relationships will likely be added to BEC.

  • The FAR section of the CPA exam could see IFRS and State and Local Governmental topics removed.

  • The CPA Exam will likely have a greater emphasis on Systems & Organizations Controls (SOC 1) reports.

  • The Task-Based Simulations will likely make heavier use of Excel, especially in AUD.

    • Candidates will be expected to be able to sort, filter, and compare data sets in Excel.

When will the CPA Exam change?

While no changes have been firmly announced, some changes will likely be coming in late 2020. The first thing to be on the lookout for are the new CPA Exam Blueprints. The CPA Exam Blueprints provide an overview of the topics that the AICPA will test on the CPA Exam. The new blueprint is set to be released in April 2020.

NOTE: The CPA Exam Blueprints do not take effect immediately on release. The changes detailed in the blueprint will not be testable until the effective date indicated on the blueprint.

How can I learn more?

Gleim will always work to keep you informed on all CPA Exam news. You can follow us on Facebook to get the latest news as it is announced. In addition, if you’d like to read over the complete 2019 AICPA Practice Advisory, you can get a PDF copy of it (for free) from the AICPA.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

February 13, 2020

CPA Candidates Affected by Coronavirus Travel Restrictions Can Receive Notice to Schedule Extension

NASBA has announced that candidates who are unable to travel to their CPA Exam testing site because of the travel restrictions imposed due to the Coronavirus are eligible to receive an extension to their Notice to Schedule. NASBA and Boards of Accountancy will treat each request on an individual basis.

Just like normal Exception to Process (ETP) procedures, if you are scheduled for an appointment, you will need to cancel that appointment before submitting the ETP form.

If your state board of accountancy’s NTS extensions are managed by NASBA, you can find the required form online at nasba.org by selecting the form section under each specific state’s examination page. NASBA manages the NTS extensions for the following state boards of accountancy:

If your state board of accountancy’s NTS extensions are not managed by NASBA, you will need to contact your board of accountancy directly.

Candidates may contact NASBA at cpaesrefund@nasba.org for more information.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

February 1, 2020

CPA candidates can now take the CPA Exam at eligible European testing centers

The AICPA announced that beginning on February 1, 2020, more CPA candidates will be eligible to test at CPA testing centers in Europe.

Before February 1, 2020 Beginning February 1, 2020
Only U.S. citizens living abroad and citizens/residents of England, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Norway, Switzerland, Russia, and other European nations could test at the testing centers in England, Germany, Ireland, and Scotland (no other European testing centers were allowed). Anyone who is eligible to test at a U.S. testing center is now eligible to test at the testing centers in England, Germany, Ireland, and Scotland (no other European testing centers are allowed).

 

The CPA Exam has eligible testing centers in England, Germany, Ireland, and Scotland. Any testing center approved to administer the CPA Exam is also eligible to administer the IQEX exam.

Previously, these testing centers were only eligible to U.S. citizens living abroad and citizens/residents of England, Germany, Ireland, Scotland, Norway, Switzerland, Russia, and other European nations.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

December 17, 2019

NASBA and the AICPA have released a draft of their revisions to the CPA Licensure

The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) have proposed a new CPA licensure model. This new model is designed to ensure that newly licensed CPAs have the knowledge and skills needed to fit the changing demands placed on them.

NOTE: These changes are still under development. While NASBA and the AICPA hope to finalize the plan by Summer 2020, it will be implemented over several years.

The new draft is based on feedback from over 2,000 stakeholders (including AICPA members, firms of all sizes, academics, regulators, state societies, and technology experts). Based on their feedback, NASBA and the AICPA identified these themes:

Breakdown of proposed CPA changes
  • There is support for changing the CPA licensure model to have a bigger emphasis on technology skills and knowledge.

  • Newly licensed CPAs should demonstrate strong common core competencies of accounting, auditing, tax, and technology.

  • Technological expertise should be required for licensure, but there are also other factors disrupting the profession.

  • The revised model should be about maintaining the strength and relevance of the CPA to ensure continued public protection.

U.S. Boards of Accountancy, as regulators, must remain relevant to protect the public we serve. Today’s marketplace is shifting, and CPAs need new skills to continue to serve organizations and the public. We need to ensure that CPAs continue to have the competencies needed to support an accounting profession that plays a critical role in protecting the public interest.

Laurie TishCPA, NASBA Chair

The model’s requirements start with a strong core in accounting, auditing, tax, and technology. This standard must be met by all CPA candidates. Each candidate will also choose an additional discipline to demonstrate deeper skills and knowledge in. Regardless of the discipline selected for testing, a CPA will still receive a full license; they would not be limited to their selected discipline.

The three disciplines that NASBA and the AICPA have identified are:

  • Tax compliance and planning

  • Business reporting and analysis

  • Information systems and controls

According to NASBA and the AICPA’s announcement, the proposed model will:

  • Produce candidates who have the deep knowledge necessary to perform high-quality work, meeting the needs of organizations, firms and the public;

  • Reflect the realities of practice by requiring candidates to demonstrate deeper knowledge in one of the three disciplines that are pillars of the profession;

  • Be adaptive and flexible, helping to future-proof the CPA as the profession continues to evolve; and

  • Result in one CPA license.

What does this mean for CPA candidates?

These changes won’t be implemented in the near future, but they do help indicate the skills and knowledge that industry leaders see as vital for future CPAs. If you’re already preparing for the CPA Exam, rest assured that the exam will not be changing anytime soon. Gleim will continue to keep you notified of all relevant news about the CPA Exam and how it may change in the future.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

October 1, 2019

The AICPA released 140 free CPA Exam questions

The AICPA has released 140 free CPA Exam questions to the public. These questions are all former exam questions and indicate how the AICPA tests various topics on the CPA Exam.

The AICPA will not update these questions to reflect standard-setting or regulatory activity, so keep in mind that changes could cause these questions to become obsolete or incorrect. In addition, while these questions do indicate the correct answer, they do not include answer explanations.

NOTE: Gleim has released a free PDF with 20 of these AICPA questions, including answer explanations.

The AICPA’s released PDF will only be available until December 31, 2019.

CPA Exam Section # of Released Questions
AUD 40
BEC 25
FAR 50
REG 25

Why is this important for CPA candidates?

Seeing how the AICPA tests certain topics is a valuable tool in your study preparations. After all, knowing what to expect on exam day is vital to ensuring you have a successful exam.

If you’re using Gleim, you’ll get even more value out of these questions after they’ve been added to our course. We add all AICPA-released questions to our test banks, and we go the extra mile to create top-notch answer explanations so that you can learn from your mistakes. In addition, we’ll keep these questions up-to-date, so you won’t have to worry about them becoming dated as standards and regulations change.

To see the AICPA-released questions, check out their PDF at the AICPA’s website.

To see answer explanations for 20 of the AICPA-released questions, check out Gleim’s AICPA-released questions PDF.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

July 31, 2019

NASBA International Evaluation Services relaunches undecided jurisdiction evaluation option

In an important move for international candidates, NIES has relaunched their undecided jurisdiction evaluation. If a candidate chooses an undecided jurisdiction option, NIES will evaluate your education and provide you with the best options for applying for the CPA Exam or License.

The NIES will suggest up to three jurisdictions based on your education and the state’s residency and social security number requirements. If you do not fit the education requirements for any jurisdictions, the NIES will still list up to three jurisdictions and will note any requirements you do not currently meet.

This service does not use your work experience in making jurisdiction suggestions, so you will need to individually look over the suggested states to ensure they will meet your needs.

Why is this important for CPA candidates?

For international candidates, deciding which state boards to apply to is a daunting task. Many states have residency or identification requirements that are difficult for international candidates to meet. In addition, some states do not have these requirements prominently displayed, and with 55 jurisdictions, international candidates have to do a lot of searching to find the best ones.

The NIES undecided jurisdiction allows international candidates to get a short list of good states to look at more closely. Plus, the information comes straight from NASBA, a reliable source.

What is NASBA International Evaluation Services?

NIES is an education verification service for international CPA candidates. Many state boards require candidates who received credit from an international university or college, including study abroad, to have their education verified. While some states allow other evaluation services, the NIES is the most used service for most state boards.

To learn more about the NIES or to make use of this outstanding service, visit the NIES’s website.

NOTE: An undecided evaluation does not create an official jurisdiction-specific report. Once you have decided on a jurisdiction, you will need to reapply for a jurisdiction-specific report. Doing so requires you to pay the application fee again.

If you’re looking for more information on the state boards of accountancy and their requirements, visit our free resource page which includes a list of the major requirements for all of the state boards.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

June 20, 2019

The AICPA and NASBA are working on changes to the CPA designation and exam

The AICPA and NASBA are working together to make significant changes to the CPA designation, but the changes will not take effect soon. The bodies have begun a new initiative called CPA Evolution. The goal of which is to ensure that the CPA exam and the CPA credential remain relevant in the ever changing business world.

We believe the earliest candidates could see changes is 2024, but it is more likely that the changes will take place after 2025 and most likely closer to 2030.

This initiative will not only have a large impact on the CPA Exam, it will change the requirements needed to become a CPA.

Do I need to worry about these new changes?

These changes are not being implemented in the near future. In fact, no deadline has been released. Historically, the AICPA has given significant notice before major changes have been implemented.

Current candidates and students should not worry about meeting these new requirements at this time.

What is changing?

Specific changes have not yet been released, but the AICPA and NASBA have released the following guiding principles and supporting concepts for this initiative.

The AICPA and NASBA's Guiding principles

  • The CPA profession must adapt quickly due to the technological disruptions in areas such as data analytics, robotics, artificial intelligence and more. As such, the competencies, services and attitudes of CPAs need to continually evolve in order to protect the public interest.
  • The CPA profession and state boards of accountancy recognize that technological and analytical expertise are essential to performing assurance work, as well as the other services that are currently, or will be in the future, core to professional accounting.
  • The CPA profession and state boards of accountancy acknowledge that sustaining the profession and continued public protection require rethinking initial licensure requirements.
  • The profession, and therefore entry into the profession, must be redesigned to attract individuals with technological and analytical expertise. This includes non-CPA professionals whose technology and analytics skills are critical to the performance of assurance and other core services, as well as non-accounting major students. All must demonstrate minimum required competencies necessary to perform professional accounting services as a CPA.
  • The changes must be rapid, transformational and substantive without negatively impacting candidates currently in the pipeline.

The AICPA and NASBA's Specific supporting concepts

  • We need a degree of flexibility in the education requirements in order to best position the profession for the future.
    • This means candidates with different degrees would all be required to have education around a common core of both accounting and technology, as well as elective coursework that aligns with the work they are interested in performing as a CPA.
    • The existing accounting graduate would need a greater understanding of technology, and the existing technology graduate would need a greater understanding of accounting.
    • This may necessitate reducing educational requirements on certain existing concepts and adding educational requirements on other concepts.
  • We need an exam that tests a common core of accounting and technology, and that allows candidates to demonstrate knowledge in their chosen area of study and interest.
    • One exam would serve all candidates, with variations allowed within exam sections that correspond to an individual’s area of study and interest.
    • Using the current exam structure, significant modifications will be made to the breadth and depth of the exam based on forward-looking practice analyses.
    • Certain advanced and unique accounting and auditing concepts currently required for licensure are applicable to only a segment of practicing CPAs, while knowledge of systems controls and emerging technologies is increasingly relevant.

In short, the new CPA requirements will focus more on technology. This will open the CPA designation up to people who do not have as strong of an accounting focus. It will not eliminate the accounting requirements, but some of the accounting requirements may lessen.

Why is the CPA designation changing?

The accounting industry is changing rapidly. Clients and organizations demand services that require expertise in technical areas, and technological innovations continue to advance automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence. These changes require CPAs to evolve to match their new working environment.

What is the timeline for the CPA designation changes?

No specific dates for the changes have been set. We believe the most likely scenario is having changes implemented after 2025 and more likely closer to 2030.

The AICPA and NASBA are currently gathering information on their new core principles over the summer and will release the results at the 2019 NASBA Annual Meeting and AICPA Fall Council in October.

Where can I go to find out more?

NASBA has released a post discussing the changes on their website.

The Journal of Accountancy has summarized the proposed changes in more detail in an article.

The North Carolina Association of CPAs also has released an article from the AICPA on the upcoming changes and how the changes are being designed.

Gleim will continue to follow this story and update you as new information becomes available.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

June 11, 2019

AICPA creating new internet domain extension for CPAs

CPAs are getting a new domain extension to help establish an authentic presence online.

The AICPA announced it has been working with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) to create a new domain extension for CPAs and CPA firms (instead of the normal “.com”).

This new domain (.cpa) will be available to all CPAs and their firms. Once the new .cpa extension is released, firms will be able to register a new website URL (firmname.cpa) and CPAs will be able to use new email addresses (jdoe@firmname.cpa).

This new extension will signal to customers that your firm has a connection to the CPA profession and is in good standing with the AICPA.

By overseeing the .cpa domain in collaboration with other global CPA organizations, the AICPA can help promote CPAs’ visibility and protect their professional standing online.

Barry MelanconCPA, CGMA, President and CEO of the AICPA

No timeline for this change has been announced, but a mailing list for notifications has been created. Visit cpa.com/dotcpa to sign up for notifications.

Gleim will continue to follow this story and keep you informed about all developments.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.

May 22, 2019

CPA Exam testing window change announced by NASBA

NASBA announced that a significant change is coming to the testing windows for the CPA Exam.

CPA candidates will no longer be required to wait for another testing window to retake a failed section of the CPA Exam.

This rule is not yet in affect, as all state boards will need to make changes before it can be implemented.

The April 26 NASBA Board of Directors’ meeting cleared the path for continuous testing on the Uniform CPA Examination as the Board approved Uniform Accountancy Act Model Rule 5-7(a)(2). According to the revised Rule, when system changes have eliminated the need for test window limitations ‘a Candidate can retake a Test Section once their grade for any previous attempt of the same Test Section has been released.’ A recent informal poll of the State Boards’ executive directors found that many states have already started to model their rules after the new Model Rule. NASBA President Ken L. Bishop told the NASBA Board that plans now call for continuous testing to begin by June 30, 2020.

May 2019 State Board Report

This ruling doesn’t mean that the CPA Exam will stop having blackout periods between testing periods. The improved technology that makes this change possible may also lead to a change to the blackout dates for the CPA Exam, but nothing has been announced.

The CPA Exam will still be offered for the normal testing periods:

CPA Testing Periods

EXAMPLE: Jane studies with a competitor, then takes and fails the AUD section of the CPA Exam on January 1.

  • Under the old rule, Jane would need to wait until April 1 to retake the AUD section.
  • Under the new rule, Jane will be able apply to retake the AUD section as soon as her grade has been released and sit as soon as she receives her NTS.

What does this mean for CPA candidates?

With these new changes, candidates can schedule their CPA Exam early in a testing period and have enough time to retake the exam in that same period.

If you fail a section of the CPA Exam, be sure to apply for a new NTS as soon as you get your score. This will maximize your chances of being able to sit before a testing period ends.

Get the latest CPA Exam news from Gleim

The AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric all make changes to the CPA Exam. Keep up-to-date with CPA Exam news by following us on Facebook.

For a comprehensive look at all major CPA Exam changes, check out our CPA Exam Changes resource page. If you have any questions about how to apply for the CPA Exam, how hard the CPA Exam is, or any other CPA Exam topic, visit our CPA Exam Resource Center.

At Gleim, we know keeping current is vital for future CPAs. That is why all of our CPA Review materials are continually updated with the most recent information you need to know to pass the CPA Exam. If you’re ready to get the most up-to-date content with an Access Until You Pass® guarantee, look no further than the Premium CPA Review.