While coronavirus is out here ruining everything from grocery store aisles to high school graduations we got some good news from NASBA this afternoon that I can’t wait to share with you. It’s the little things, ya know?
We first learned of the plan to launch continuous testing in May of last year, at which time I cautioned candidates to manage their expectations as this is a pretty significant change in scoring and anything could happen to delay it. Well I come to you today with a big keto-friendly piece of crow on my plate to eat as it seems not even COVID-19 could get in the way of NASBA implementing this long-discussed plan of theirs. YAY!
In a message to candidates today, NASBA proudly declared that while Prometric testing centers may be closed, the continuous testing plan is still on and on schedule at that. Take that, corona.
Dear CPA Examination Candidate,
During this unique time, we understand CPA Exam candidates are concerned about their testing options. Although Prometric Test Centers in many parts of the world are currently closed due to the COVID-19 virus, we wanted to share some good news with you.
In response to numerous candidate requests, NASBA, AICPA and Prometric are pleased to announce Continuous Testing for CPA Exam candidates will begin July 1, 2020. Under the new Continuous Testing model, candidates will have the ability to take the Exam year-round, without restriction, other than waiting to receive scores from prior attempts of the same section or when there is a major change to the Exam. Continuous Testing will replace the existing CPA Exam Testing Window model, which only permits candidates to test during designated time frames each calendar quarter.
The 55 U.S. Boards of Accountancy enthusiastically support the move to Continuous Testing, as it positions candidates to re-take sections while information is top of mind and may shorten the time needed to complete the four-section Exam. We will continue to serve as a resource to the boards as they work to make the necessary changes to legislation in order to make the transition. In the interim, candidates are asked to visit NASBA’s website to confirm that their Board of Accountancy has transitioned to the new model.
This shift to a Continuous Testing model signifies the power of alignment among state boards, NASBA, AICPA and Prometric as these organizations continue to support Exam candidates on their journey to CPA.
Candidates wishing to learn more about continuous testing should follow NASBA via social media by clicking on the social media icons above and visit our website (nasba.org) frequently for important messages and continued updates.
Sincerely,
NASBA Examination Team
So far, 40 jurisdictions are ready to roll come the third quarter with another 14 working on getting continuous testing-ready. NASBA expects all 54 to be ready in time for the July 1, 2020 rollout. South Carolina is the lone holdout; they need at least until 2021 to get on board.
The most exciting part about this change is that you’ll be able to retake a section right after finding out you failed it, which is HUGE. This means you get a second (or third or fourth) chance while the information is still fresh in your mind instead of having to wait until the next testing window to give it another shot.
I don’t often give out accolades around here but major credit due to all involved parties including state boards for working together and seeing this thing all the way through. It was no doubt a herculean effort and y’all managed to pull it off.
We’ll continue sharing updates as they’re available but candidates are also encouraged to check back with NASBA for any new developments.
