United States · Licensing examWhen are the CPA Exam testing windows for BAR, ISC and TCP?
These are from the AICPA's schedule as of October 2026. If you fail a Discipline section, your next try has to fall in a later window.
| Window | Dates |
|---|---|
| Q1 2027 | January 1-31 |
| Q2 2027 | April 1-30 |
| Q3 2027 | July 12 - August 12 |
| Q4 2027 | October 1-31 |
| Q1 2028 | January 1-31 |
| Q2 2028 | April 1-30 |
When is the CPA Exam offered for Core sections?
All year, until the platform change. From July 12, 2027, the AICPA's schedule groups Core testing into periods with set end dates: July 12 to September 30, October 1 to December 15, January 1 to March 15, 2028, and April 1 to June 15, 2028. Testing in each period leads to one target score date.
The July 2027 blackout
No appointments are available from July 1 to July 11, 2027, while the exam moves to its new delivery platform. Testing restarts on July 12, 2027. Several state boards, like Virginia's, have posted notices about it. If your credit or NTS runs out around then, plan your dates early.
Are dates different by state?
No. Windows and score dates are the same everywhere, because the AICPA sets them. What changes by state is how long your NTS lasts and how long you have to pass all four. California, Texas and Illinois candidates follow the same calendar as everyone else.
Sources: AICPA & CIMA · Virginia Board of Accountancy and 2 more. Checked October 2026.
- AICPA & CIMA: Find out when you'll get your CPA Exam score (August 31, 2026) ↗
- AICPA & CIMA: CPA Exam user-interface changes coming in 2027 (August 19, 2026) ↗
- AICPA & CIMA: CPA Exam frequently asked questions ↗
- Virginia Board of Accountancy ↗
Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.