2020 CPA Exam Testing Windows & Score Release Dates
The CPA Exam is offered in four “testing windows.” In 2020, these testing windows are:
Q1: January 1 – March 10
Q2: April 1 – June 30
Q3: Continuous Testing Starts!
Remember, as of July 1 2020, testing windows will be replaced by continuous testing, allowing candidates to take the Exam year-round, other than waiting to receive scores from prior attempts of the same section or when there is a major change to the Exam. This means that there are no black out periods
The official CPA Exam score release dates are updated by the AICPA each year. NASBA (the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy) will release CPA Exam scores to candidates and State Boards. Below, you will find the 2020 testing windows and score release dates that have been announced.
Q3 Onwards 2020: July 1 – December 31
| If you take your Exam on or 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to take the exam?
Candidates must complete a thorough CPA Exam application process. To make that a little easier, we’ve put together a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the CPA Exam.
How do I schedule an exam?
The CPA exam is administered at Prometric Testing Centers. To schedule your exam, have your NTS handy and visit prometric.com. You can choose the testing center most convenient for you by using the location tool provided during scheduling. As described above, there are specific testing windows each quarter. The CPA Exam is typically not administered during the last month of every quarter, so be sure to plan accordingly. Learn more about this process in our step-by-step guide on how to apply for the CPA Exam.
How are the testing windows and score release dates determined?
The testing windows and official CPA Exam score release dates are determined by the AICPA each year. Check back with Surgent for the latest information on testing windows and score release dates.
Where do I get my CPA Exam results?
For most candidates, Prometric sends Exam data files to the AICPA within 24 hours after you complete testing. Exam data files received after the AICPA cutoff dates will be bumped to the subsequent scheduled target score release date. If you take the BEC section, you might receive your score approximately one week following the target release date due to additional analysis that may be required for the written communication tasks. In some states, NASBA releases CPA Exam scores directly to candidates. In other states, the scores go through the state boards, who in turn release them to candidates. Check with your state board to verify the process in your state.
