CPA Exam Dates

By IIC Lakshya

27 Jan 2026

The CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam follows a unique and flexible structure compared to most professional finance exams. Unlike fixed exam sessions conducted only a few times a year, the CPA exam operates under a continuous testing model, allowing candidates to appear for exams throughout the year. Understanding how CPA exam dates work in 2026 is essential for effective planning, especially for international candidates and working professionals.

This blog explains the CPA exam schedule, testing windows, result timelines, and how candidates can strategically plan their attempts.

How CPA Exam Dates Work?

The CPA exam does not have traditional “sessions” like CA or ACCA. Instead, candidates can schedule exams year-round, subject to availability at Prometric test centres.

Key highlights of the CPA exam schedule:

Exams are available almost every month
Candidates can choose dates based on readiness
No restriction on appearing only in specific months
Flexibility to retake exams without long waiting periods

This system makes the CPA qualification one of the most adaptable professional exams globally.

What is the CPA Continuous Testing Model? (2026)

Under the continuous testing model, CPA candidates can:

Appear for any exam section once they receive their Notice to Schedule (NTS)
Retake a failed section after the score is released
Avoid waiting for long exam windows to reopen

In 2026, CPA exams are expected to be available throughout the year, excluding a few short blackout periods reserved for system maintenance or exam updates.

This structure is particularly beneficial for candidates managing work commitments, academic schedules, or multiple certifications.

Key CPA Exam Availability by Month

January to December 2026

CPA exam sections — FAR, AUD, REG, and the Discipline paper — are generally available:

From January to December
On most weekdays and selected weekends
Based on the Prometric centre availability

Candidates can choose exam dates that best match their preparation level rather than adjusting preparation around fixed exam calendars.

CPA Exam Sections and Scheduling Flexibility

Candidates can attempt the four CPA exam sections in any order:

FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting)
AUD (Auditing and Attestation)
REG (Regulation)
Discipline Section (specialization-based paper)

There is no mandatory sequence, allowing candidates to:

Start with their strongest subject
Schedule tougher papers after extended preparation
Spread exams across months or complete multiple sections in a short period

This flexibility plays a major role in reducing exam stress and improving pass rates.

CPA Exam Result Timelines

CPA exam results are typically released within 1–3 weeks after the exam date, depending on when the exam was taken during the testing cycle.

This quick turnaround helps candidates:

Plan retakes without losing momentum
Schedule the next exam section efficiently
Complete the CPA qualification faster

Compared to traditional professional exams, this rapid result declaration is a major advantage of the CPA system.

Blackout Periods and Maintenance Windows

Although CPA exams are available year-round, there may be short blackout periods in 2026 due to:

System upgrades
Syllabus updates
Testing platform maintenance

These blackout periods are usually brief and announced in advance, ensuring minimal disruption to candidate plans.

Best Time to Attempt CPA Exams

The best month to attempt the CPA exam depends on:

Individual preparation level
Work and academic schedules
Personal exam-taking capacity

However, many candidates prefer:

January–March for fresh starts and annual planning
June–August for focused preparation periods
October–December to complete pending sections before year-end

The continuous testing model ensures there is no “wrong” month to attempt the CPA exam.

Why CPA Exam Dates Offer a Major Advantage

The CPA exam schedule supports:

Faster completion timelines
Reduced exam pressure
Better work-study balance
Efficient retake strategies

For international candidates, this flexibility eliminates the challenges of limited exam windows and long waiting periods.

The CPA exam’s continuous testing system was introduced to reduce candidate stress and improve success rates — making it one of the most candidate-friendly professional exams in the global finance ecosystem.