Ever wonder how the CPA exam score release dates work? Well, you’re not alone. According to the AICPA, over 18,000 CPAs passed four sections of the CPA exam in just one year and had to wait for their CPA exam score release dates. I know the feeling of waiting for CPA score releases like it was yesterday.
But there’s more to it than waiting for your scores.
Whether you’re diving into the core or discipline sections, understanding the rhythm of test dates and score releases can make all the difference. So, stick around, and I’ll break down the key dates and what they mean for your CPA journey, guiding you toward joining the successful ranks of those who’ve made it through.
Key Takeaways
- Structured Schedule: The CPA exam features core and specific sections with clear exam and score release dates, aiding in effective preparation.
- Score Release: After an exam, scores undergo a rigorous process, including quality control and detailed scoring, ensuring timely and accurate releases.
- Candidate Experiences with NASBA Portal: Updates to the NASBA portal have affected score release experiences, including an early status update to “Scored,” then offering a sneak peek at “Pass/Fail” the day before the official release date in some states.
2026 CPA Exam Score Release Dates
The CPA exam is organized into core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) and discipline-specific sections (BAR, ISC, TCP), each with set exam and score release dates throughout the year. Core exams are offered almost year-round, with results released from June to February of the next year. Discipline-specific exams have narrower testing windows but provide quicker score feedback, aiding candidates in timely planning for their licensure journey.
| Core Section Exam Dates | Core Exam Score Release Dates | Discipline Section Exam Dates | Discipline Section Score Release Dates |
| January 10 – March 26 | June 4 | January 10 – February 6 | April 24 |
| April 1 – June 25 | July 31 | April 20 – May 19 | June 28 |
| July 1 – September 25 | November 1 | July 1 – 31 | September 10 |
| October 1 – December 26 | February 2025 | October 1 – 31 | December 10 |
CPA Exam Score Release Process
The score release process involves several steps, from completing the exam to posting scores. After candidates complete an exam section, exam data files are transmitted to the AICPA, where necessary quality control procedures are applied.
The scoring process then begins, factoring in the standard-setting analyses and adjustments for difficulty levels across different exam versions. The target score release date is set based on these processes, aiming to provide scores promptly and accurately.
How Do You Check Your CPA Scores?
Depending on the jurisdiction, candidates can check their CPA exam scores through NASBA’s Candidate Portal or their state’s accountancy board website. Scores are usually released by midnight Eastern Time on the target release date, but some have recently reported being able to see your status update to Pass or Fail the day before the release.
It’s essential to have your NASBA account or state board login details ready as the score release date approaches so you can access your score notice promptly.
Take $1,600 Off UWorld CPA Elite-Unlimited Course
CPA Candidate Experiences on Score Releases
With updates to NASBA’s portal, CPA candidates have been sharing their experiences with the CPA exam score release on Reddit.
Expect to see your status switch from Attended to Scored the morning before the score release date.
A Reddit user explains further, “At around 10 am EST the day before the officially-posted score release date, exams with scores being released will have their status switched from Attended to Scored on Nasba’s CPA Portal homepage.”
They go on that in some states, once your status has been updated, you can click on View Exact Section History, and you’ll see either Pass or Fail for the CPA exam section you’re looking for. However, candidates from California, Maryland, and Illinois still need to wait until the official score release date to see if they have passed or failed.
Conclusion
Understanding the CPA exam score release dates and the process behind them is key for candidates navigating their way through the CPA licensure journey. With the 2026 exam and score release dates in mind, candidates can better plan their schedules with the help of CPA review courses that include study planners to manage their expectations.
Remember, obtaining scores is just one step in a larger journey toward a CPA career path, but it’s a step that brings you closer to achieving your professional goals. Always stay updated with the AICPA or your state board for the most current score release date and process information.
FAQ
Depending on their jurisdiction, candidates can check their CPA exam scores through NASBA’s Candidate Portal or their state’s accountancy board’s website. Scores are generally available by midnight Eastern Time on the release date.
NASBA generally makes CPA exam scores available around midnight Eastern Time on the slated release date. This timing allows candidates to check their results early the next morning, but there have been reports in some states being able to see Pass/Fail after 10 am the day before the release date.
A target score release date refers to the estimated date on which the AICPA aims to release scores to candidates. It’s based on the processing and scoring of exam data files received from test centers.
While the target score release dates are estimates, scores are typically released on or around these dates. Early releases are rare and would be announced by NASBA or the state boards.
While the CPA exam score release dates follow a similar pattern each year, specific dates may vary. The AICPA and NASBA update the schedule annually based on the testing windows and other factors.
If you believe there’s an error with your score, you should contact NASBA or your state’s accountancy board immediately. They will provide guidance on how to proceed with a score review or appeal, if applicable.
To access your Candidate Performance Report, log into the NASBA Candidate Portal or the portal provided by your state board. Once logged in, look for the exam scores section, where you can view or download your report, available if you did not pass an exam section.
No, your CPA exam scores are private, released only to you via the NASBA Candidate Portal or your state board’s portal. They may also be sent to the state board where you are seeking licensure. Your scores are not accessible to others without your consent.
A passed CPA exam section score is valid for 18 to 30 months. To keep all scores valid, you must pass all sections within your state set timeframe.
If you miss the initial score release date, your score will still be available until the “score available until” date specified by NASBA or your state board, so make sure to check your score before this deadline.
The CPA exam pass rates for the sections according to the AICPA are as follows: REG (Regulation) at 59.22%, AUD (Auditing and Attestation) at 47.68%, and FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting) at 42.30%.
Yes, the timing of score releases can influence the best order to take the CPA exam, as it allows you to plan your study and exam schedule more effectively, potentially reducing waiting times for retakes.
