The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential is the most widely recognized accounting license in the United States, and one of the most respected accounting qualifications in the world. This guide walks through how the exam is structured in 2026, who’s eligible, what it costs, how long it takes, and how to give yourself the best chance of passing. Each section links to a deeper guide if you want to go further.
How the CPA exam is structured in 2026
Since January 2024, the CPA exam follows a Core + Discipline model. Every candidate takes three mandatory Core sections, then chooses one of three Discipline sections. You earn the same CPA license regardless of which Discipline you pick.
The three Core sections (required):
- FAR — Financial Accounting and Reporting
- AUD — Auditing and Attestation
- REG — Taxation and Regulation
The Discipline sections (choose one):
- BAR — Business Analysis and Reporting
- ISC — Information Systems and Controls
- TCP — Tax Compliance and Planning
Each section is four hours long. We break down what’s tested in each, and how to choose your Discipline, in CPA exam sections explained.
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Eligibility: the 150-hour rule
CPA licensure is granted by individual state boards, not a single national authority, so requirements vary. Almost all jurisdictions require 150 semester hours of education (typically a bachelor’s degree plus additional coursework), a specified number of accounting and business credits, and a period of supervised experience. We cover the variation in CPA requirements by state.
What the CPA exam costs
Between application fees, examination fees for four sections, and (often) review course costs, candidates should budget carefully. The fee structure varies by state board. See the current breakdown in CPA exam cost in 2026.
How long it takes
Core sections use continuous testing (available year-round); Discipline sections are offered in quarterly windows. Once you pass your first section, you have a rolling window — commonly 18 months, though many boards have moved toward 30 months — to pass the rest. Most candidates spend several months to over a year on the full process. See how long to study for the CPA exam.
How hard is it?
Pass rates hover well below those of most professional exams, and the breadth of material is the real challenge. We give an honest assessment in how hard is the CPA exam and dig into the numbers in CPA exam pass rates.
Choosing a review course
Few people pass without a structured review course. The major providers each have strengths depending on how you learn. Compare them in best CPA review courses in 2026 and our head-to-head Becker vs Wiley vs Surgent.
Is it worth it?
The CPA opens doors in public accounting, corporate finance, and beyond, and typically pays for itself over a career. We weigh the cost and payoff in is the CPA worth it and look at earnings in CPA salary in 2026.
Already a CA or international accountant?
If you trained outside the US, there are pathways to the US CPA that can credit your existing qualification. Start with from CA to CPA.
Exam fees, pass rates, and dates change. Always confirm specifics with AICPA and your state board of accountancy before making decisions.