Let’s take a deep dive into the Uniform CPA Examination.
What’s in the test? According to the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), the test has four sections. Each section is a rigorous assessment of the minimum technical knowledge and skills required for licensure:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BUS)
Within each of the exam’s four main sections, CPA candidates are tested in four areas: Remembering and understanding, application, analysis and evaluation of that section’s subject material.
How long is the CPA exam?
Each section of the exam is taken separately. CPA candidates are given a maximum of four hours to take each section, for a total of 16 hours of testing time. Candidates are allowed up to 18 months to pass all four exam sections, which begins at the time that they pass their first exam part.
How is the test scored?
Section scores are reported on a scale from 0 to 99. A total reported score of 75 or higher is required to pass each section.
When is the test administered?
The exam is administered continuously throughout the year, allowing candidates to take the test when it’s most convenient for them.
What happens after you’ve passed the test?
Once you’ve passed all four exam sections, you should verify whether your jurisdiction requires you to take a separate ethics examination before applying for your state-issued CPA license.