AICPA releases blueprints for new CPA Exam

OSCPA staff report  

One year ahead of the implementation of the new CPA exam, the AICPA has released the updated Uniform CPA Examination® Blueprints, the official document of content eligible for assessment. The blueprints are based on the knowledge and skills required of a newly licensed CPA to meet the demands of firms, employers and clients. 

Under the CPA Evolution licensure model, all candidates will be required to take three core sections: Financial Accounting and Reporting, Auditing and Attestation, and Taxation and Regulation. Then, each candidate will choose a Discipline in which to demonstrate additional knowledge: Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR), Information Systems and Controls (ISC) and Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP). Regardless of a candidate’s chosen discipline, this model leads to full CPA licensure. 

In line with the importance of emerging technologies in the profession, there is an increased focus on data and technology concepts in all Core and Discipline Exam sections. 

Access to the full transition policy and related webcast recordings and FAQs are available on NASBA’s website. Candidates should note that the last day of testing for all current CPA Exam sections is anticipated to be Dec. 15, 2023. The CPA Evolution-aligned CPA Exam will launch in January 2024. Of note, most states, including Ohio, will be extending the Exam passage window during the transition to the new exam, ensuring that any parts of the exam passed between July 2022 and December 2023 will not expire until mid-2025 to allow for any administrative hiccups that might negatively impact candidates.  This means that the normal 18-month window to pass all four parts of the exam is extended to as much as 36 months. 

For additional information, view the CPA Exam transition FAQs or email feedback@evolutionofcpa.org.