CPA Exam Discipline Sections

The first major change implemented across the nation for all test takers is effective January 1, 2024, the exam section Business Environment and Concepts was replaced, and candidates now have the freedom to choose from three discipline sections - Business Analysis and Reporting, Information Systems and Controls, or Tax Compliance and Planning. Though these new sections come with uncertainty, this will be the first time these test sections are rolled out and this change presents a unique opportunity for young professionals to specialize and bring new benefits to their firms. Choosing an area of interest can also be beneficial in expanding the “pipeline” to the profession. Individuals can select the test that they are the most confident in, enabling them to be more successful when it comes to the exam. Be it from excelling in a particular class, enjoying a certain niche of an internship, or having a general interest in one section over another, the new disciplines can help empower people when it comes to shaping their own exam and professional path. 

Testing Extension for New Candidates 

Since everyone’s exam path and timeline differs, another major benefit approved by the Board of Accountancy is an extension of the credit period. Instead of having to pass all four exams within eighteen months, the window is now a more generous thirty months from the score release date of the earliest passing test. This is perhaps the most highly anticipated and welcomed change to the exam. First time test takers may have months pass between their exams, given the time commitment required for studying and the significant lag in receiving exam results. Especially for those who are already working in the field, this may be exacerbated by the demands of a full-time position and networking obligations, or perhaps home-buying and family-building. All these worthy endeavors make it incredibly challenging to complete all exams in eighteen months, especially if someone were to not pass on their first try and had to retake a section. Work environments are concurrently changing, as many firms are implementing flexible work policies - acknowledging that their employees have passions and lives outside of the office that help them maintain a productive work-life balance. The longer credit period allows a similar flexibility. Extending the aggressive eighteen-month period will cater to those who may have been on the fence about taking the exam due to time constraints. It will now be more manageable for candidates to study while simultaneously working full time, taking classes, managing volunteer commitments, or helping with their families. 

Credit Extensions for Existing Test Takers

There have also been concessions made for those who started the exams but did not complete all sections before January 1, 2024, which was a welcomed change. As a result of the pandemic and related challenges, candidates who passed exams between January 30, 2020 and May 11, 2023, and had their credits expire, will receive an extension to complete remaining sections through June 30, 2025. Furthermore, credits received from May 11, 2023 through December 15, 2023, will be grandfathered in in accordance with the new policy and will be valid for thirty months from the score release date of the earliest passing exam. Existing test takers who may have struggled on tests taken prior to 2024 gained an extra sense of encouragement and motivation, knowing that their credits would not expire. 

These changes benefit students, whether they are at a stage of career exploration or as graduates entering the field; they also benefit professionals and CPA firms across the nation. In all these scenarios, there are plentiful opportunities for anyone looking to further their career. There are many knowledgeable and CPA-worthy individuals who can obtain their CPA designation with a little more time, and the concessions made to the exam will help encourage individuals to choose this path. Not only that, but it will help firms retain their talented employees and encourage continued growth across firm management and client engagements. As the business environment and technology rapidly change, it is important that firms and their professionals adapt and promote continuous learning. The CPA Exam modifications reflect the same sentiments and provide a tool for candidates to grow – with a more encouraging timeline to help them attain their goals in and out of the office. For further information, make sure to consult with your specific state board of accountancy. 

About the Author: Mia McDonald is a Senior Associate at the Holyoke-based Accounting firm, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. She recently sat for the first of the four CPA exams.