CPA Exam General Information

Overview

  • The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) develops, maintains, and scores the CPA exam.
  • Each state sets its own requirements for CPA exam candidates and licensing. Since state regulations vary, U.S. candidates are encouraged to apply to test in the state where they plan to practice and obtain licensure.
  • Candidates submitting transcripts from institutions outside the U.S. are considered international candidates and should apply to test in the state where they plan to practice and obtain licensure.
  • The Illinois Board of Examiners (ILBOE) has sole responsibility for setting policy and rules for Illinois CPA exam candidates.

Exam Structure and Content

The CPA exam consists of four sections, each four hours long. All candidates must pass three core exam sections and one discipline section of their choice.

Core Exam Sections:

  • Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
  • Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
  • Taxation and Regulation (REG)

Discipline Exam Options:

  • Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
  • Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
  • Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)

The Uniform CPA Examination Blueprints outline the number of multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations included in each section, along with the skills tested, content areas, and weighting.

Choosing a Discipline

When you become licensed, you’ll be able to practice in any area regardless of which discipline exam you choose. No discipline is inherently better than another, so choose the one that aligns best with your interests and career goals. 

  • BAR: Focuses on analyzing financial statements and data, applying advanced accounting and reporting concepts for for-profit entities (such as stock compensation, business combinations, and derivatives), and understanding revenue recognition, lease accounting, and state and local government reporting requirements.
  • ISC: Emphasizes IT audit and advisory services, including SOC engagements, and data management throughout the data lifecycle, from collection and storage to governance and security.
  • TCP: Covers federal tax compliance and planning for individuals and entities, including complex and nonroutine transactions, as well as personal financial planning considerations.

You’re encouraged to research each discipline and seek input from instructors or advisors before choosing a path. If you don’t pass your initial discipline section, you can select a different one. Once you’ve passed your discipline and all three core sections, you’ll receive a general CPA license that will not reference your selected discipline.

Learn more about choosing a discipline on ThisWayToCPA.