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CPA Exam Dates and Testing Windows in 2026

Updated December 11, 2025

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Want to know about the next CPA exam dates?

You’re at the right place.

With the CPA Evolution bringing significant changes to the new CPA exam, understanding the new test dates and windows is crucial for candidates. There’s always been an 18-month clock that starts ticking from your first exam, but a recent NASBA decision has extended this window by an additional year, offering more flexibility to complete all sections and join over 672,000 CPAs in the US.

This change is a direct response to the challenges and pressures faced by CPA candidates, highlighting the importance of planning your exam strategy wisely. As you navigate these new test dates, adjusting your study plans accordingly is vital to make the most of this extended timeframe.

Let’s look at this year’s dates for CPA exam candidates.

Key Takeaways

  • Q1: Core test dates from January 10 to March 26, with scores released by June 4; Discipline test dates between January 10 and February 6, with scores by April 24.
  • Q2: Core tests from April 1 to June 25, scores out by July 31; Discipline tests from April 20 to May 19, with scores by June 28.
  • Q3: Core tests between July 1 and September 25, scores available by November 1; Discipline tests from July 1 to July 31, scores released by September 10.
  • Q4: Core testing from October 1 to December 26, with scores in February 2025; Discipline tests from October 1 to October 31, scores by December 10.
  • Score release timing varies, typically between 6 and 10 weeks after the exam, highlighting the importance of planning for both CPA prep and potential retake strategies.

CPA Exam Dates & Testing Windows

The CPA exam, a beast that tests your endurance as much as your intellect, is divided into two main categories: Core and Discipline sections. These categories are your two-headed dragon, but armed with the right schedule, you’ll be ready to face them head-on.

Quarter 1: The Kick-Off

  • Core Test Dates: January 10 – March 26
  • Core Score Release Date: June 4
  • Discipline Test Dates: January 10 – February 6
  • Discipline Score Release Date: April 24

Quarter 2: The Mid-Year Clash

  • Core Test Dates: April 1 – June 25
  • Core Score Release Date: July 31
  • Discipline Test Dates: April 20 – May 19
  • Discipline Score Release Date: June 28

Quarter 3: The Autumn Battle

  • Core Test Dates: July 1 – September 25
  • Core Score Release Date: November 1
  • Discipline Test Dates: July 1 – July 31
  • Discipline Score Release Date: September 10

Quarter 4: The Year-End Sprint

  • Core Test Dates: October 1 – December 26
  • Core Score Release Date: February 2025
  • Discipline Test Dates: October 1 – October 31
  • Discipline Score Release Date: December 10

CPA Exam Score Release Dates

For those navigating the path to becoming a Certified Public Accountant, understanding when you’ll receive your CPA exam scores is crucial. The score release process is straightforward but requires a bit of patience. Here’s how the timeline looks based on the core and discipline sections’ test dates:

  • Q1 Testing Window: For exams taken in the core sections from January 10 to March 26, scores will be available by June 4. If you’ve tackled a discipline section between January 10 and February 6, mark April 24 on your calendar for score release.
  • Q2 Testing Window: Set a reminder for July 31 to check scores for core sections tested from April 1 to June 25. For those who sat for discipline sections between April 20 and May 19, your scores will be ready by June 28.
  • Q3 Testing Window: Expect November 1 to bring news for core sections tested between July 1 and September 25. Discipline sections taken from July 1 to July 31 will see scores released by September 10.
  • Q4 Testing Window: For the core sections tested from October 1 to December 26, scores will greet you in February 2025. Discipline section tests done from October 1 to October 31 have a score release date of December 10.

This schedule means that the target score release date can range from around 6 to 10 weeks after your exam date or the end of the testing window. It’s a time filled with anticipation, as these dates mark significant milestones on your journey to CPA licensure.

Remember, this schedule provides a general guideline. Always verify with the AICPA or NASBA for the most current information, as dates may shift due to unforeseen circumstances.

By keeping a close eye on these CPA exam score release dates, you can manage your expectations and plan your next steps, whether that means celebrating your achievement or preparing with better CPA study materials for your next attempt.

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Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the journey to mastering the CPA exam and eagerly awaiting those all-important CPA exam scores to be released is an integral part of the accounting profession’s rite of passage. As we navigate through the transformative changes brought about by the CPA Evolution, it’s clear that the path to becoming a CPA is evolving to meet the dynamic needs of the business world. This evolution ensures that new CPAs are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Keeping an eye on CPA exam dates and score release dates, understanding the structure of the exam, and staying informed about the CPA Evolution are key steps in preparing for success. As candidates, staying informed and prepared for these milestones will not only help in planning your study schedule but also in setting the stage for a prosperous career in accounting. Here’s to looking forward to each score release with optimism and to embracing the opportunities that the CPA Evolution brings to the profession.

FAQ

How often can I take the CPA exam?

You’re eligible to sit for the CPA exam as many times as you need as long as you pass them all within the 18-30 month period, depending on your state (Florida allows 30 months).

What are the CPA exam sections I need to pass?

The CPA exam is now divided into two main types of sections: Core sections and Discipline sections. You need to pass three Core sections—Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), Auditing and Attestation (AUD), and Regulation (REG)—and one Discipline section, where you can choose from Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR), Information Systems and Controls (ISC), or Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP).

Can I schedule different CPA exam sections in the same testing window?

Yes, you can schedule to take different sections of the CPA exam within the same testing window, or even the same day if you wish.

How do I find out my CPA exam score?

CPA exam scores are released by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and can be accessed on the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) website or your specific state board of accountancy’s website, depending on where you’re registered.

What is the passing score for the CPA exam?

A passing score for each section of the CPA exam is 75 on a scale of 0 to 99. This benchmark is set to ensure that only those individuals who have met a sufficient level of understanding and expertise are granted licensure, maintaining the profession’s high standard.

Bryce Welker is a regular contributor to Forbes, Inc.com, YEC and Business Insider. After graduating from San Diego State University he went on to earn his Certified Public Accountant license and created CrushTheCPAexam.com to share his knowledge and experience to help other accountants become CPAs too. Bryce was named one of Accounting Today’s “Accountants To Watch” among other accolades.