- Choose your order: many candidates start with FAR (the broadest section) while their school knowledge is fresh.
- Budget 80–150 hours per section depending on your background.
- Do multiple-choice questions daily and review every explanation. Our CPA practice test lets you focus on one section at a time.
- Practice task-based simulations, which carry significant weight in each section.
- Take a timed mock exam 1–2 weeks before test day.
Also considering finance credentials? Compare the CFA exam and CFP exam.
USA CPA Exam: Quick Facts
- Developed by
- AICPA (administered with NASBA and Prometric)
- Sections
- Core: AUD, FAR, REG · Discipline: BAR, ISC or TCP
- Length
- 4 hours per section
- Passing score
- 75 (scale 0–99)
- Credit window
- 30 months in most jurisdictions
- Study time
- Roughly 300–400+ hours total
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not financial, tax, insurance or investment advice. Exam details, fees, blueprints and product terms change. Confirm with the official organization or a licensed professional. Read our editorial policy.