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Prometric CPA: How to Schedule (and Reschedule) Your CPA Exam Online

iprometric cpa center information for CPA examFrom the CPA application to the actual exam, the process is complicated and stressful for many CPA candidates. One of the many tasks is scheduling your CPA exam at the so-called “Prometric center.”

What is it, and how does it work?

Prometric CPA Overview: What is a Prometric Center?

Prometric is a company that specializes in administrating computerized examinations in exam sites throughout the USA. The Uniform CPA Exam is just one of the many standardized tests administered by Prometric. Additionally, Prometric also hosts the CMA certification exam and other tests for doctors, lawyers, and all sorts of professionals.

Now, Prometric is not affiliated with state boards of accountancy or any CPA-related organization like the AICPA or NASBA. Instead, they are a completely independent company that oversees the actual administration of the CPA exam. But they have nothing to do with the CPA license or exam content. NASBA, the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy, also plays a crucial role in the CPA Exam application process. They work hand in hand with state boards to provide assistance and streamline the application procedure. For example, NASBA grants candidate authorizations, ensuring that they meet the necessary requirements to sit for the CPA Exam. They also issue your Notice to Schedule (NTS), which allows you to schedule your exams at Prometric testing centers.

How to Pick the CPA Testing Site

Prometric has locations in more than 160 countries. However, depending on where you live, you may have to travel to the nearest testing center.

The best Prometric CPA testing site is simply the one closest to you come exam time. But here’s an important point: You don’t have to take the CPA exam in the state where you plan to practice. The exam content is the same everywhere.

So, let’s say you’re a college senior living in San Diego, California. If you know you’re planning to make a post-graduation move to Seattle, Washington, you can still take the test in San Diego. Then, once you take and pass the CPA exam, you would need to meet the additional licensing requirements for the state of Washington.

You might even want to take the CPA Exam Hawaii if you want to get a nice suntan afterward! But seriously, there are circumstances that you may want to take in a different state, and it is great that Prometric and the CPA examiners give you this flexibility.

How to Find the Nearest Prometric CPA Testing Center

Location, location, location: These are genuinely the 3 most important words when scheduling your CPA exam. You just want to choose the site that’s most convenient for you. Here’s how you can find a list of Prometric CPA exam locations:

  1. Visit the Prometric CPA website.
  2. Click “Locate” under “Actions” on the left-hand side of the page.
  3. Select the applicable country and state (for U.S. test-takers) from the drop-down menus.
  4. Click “Next.”
  5. Select the applicable CPA exam part from the drop-down menu.
  6. Click “Next.”
  7. Enter your address information and click “Search.”
  8. Review the list of available test sites.

When you’re ready to schedule your CPA Exam, you can go ahead and complete the scheduling process. If you’re not quite prepared, I suggest reviewing the list of available test sites to ensure you have one close to you. If you have to drive a few hours or perhaps get a hotel room, you’ll need to do a bit more planning for exam day.

And this likely goes without saying, but make sure you know how to get to the Prometric site before your exam day. Save yourself the stress! If you’re relatively close, drive by the site. If not, take the time to look at the directions and familiarize yourself with the area.

Is There Anything I Need to Do Before Scheduling the CPA Exam?

Essentially, you need permission to apply for the CPA Exam. More specifically, you need to apply to the appropriate state board. The board will review your application and determine if you’re eligible to sit for the exam.

That being said, state boards have specific criteria for determining eligibility. Some state boards require CPA candidates to have 120 total credit hours to apply for the exam. However, others require candidates to have 150 total credit hours. Typically, 120 credit hours is equal to a bachelor’s degree, and 150 credit hours is equivalent to a master’s degree.

Further, your state board may also mandate that your degree or at least some of your coursework relates to the CPA license. For example, they may want to see that you have relevant education in business or accounting.

Notice to Schedule (NTS)

If you meet the state board qualifications, you can move forward with submitting your CPA Exam application. Once the board receives and approves your application, you’ll receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS). The NTS is your ticket to the exam. It contains an ID number that you’ll use to schedule your exam through Prometric.

Note: the NTS does have an expiration date. For most states, you have 6 months from the date it’s issued to schedule your exam. If you don’t schedule your CPA exam within 6 months, you forfeit your exam fees and will have to repay them.

NTS expirations vary by state boards, but a 6-month expiration is the most common.

How Exactly to Schedule My CPA Exam at Prometric?

cpa prometric schedule your exam

When you’re ready to make a “date” with Prometric, you’ll find the process to be rather quick. This statement is especially true if you’ve taken the time to find a testing site beforehand.

Here’s what the CPA Exam scheduling process with Prometric looks like:

  1. Go to the Prometric website
  2. Click “Schedule” under “Actions” on the left-hand side of the page.
  3. Choose your preferred test site by selecting the applicable country and state (for U.S. test-takers) from the drop-down menus.
  4. Click “Next.”
  5. Review the Terms and click “Next.”
  6. Read through and agree to the Privacy Policy.
  7. Enter your exam ID and the first 4 characters of your last name.
  8. Select your exam location and time.
  9. Schedule your exam.

Once you complete the scheduling process, you’ll receive an email confirmation from Prometric.

Prometric CPA Timing (When Should I Schedule the CPA Exam?)

Although the CPA Exam had continuous testing between 2020 and 2023, the CPA Exam windows are back in 2025 for the Discipline sections. However, the Core sections (AUD, FAR, and REG) are available on a rolling basis.

2025 CPA Exam Windows

Core Section Dates: 2025 CPA Exam

  • Good news! You can take the CPA Exam Core sections (AUD, FAR, and REG) on a rolling basis. Or in other words, you can take the Core sections any time a testing center is open.

Dates for Disciple Sections: 2025

Unlike the Core sections, the CPA Discipline sections (BAR, ISC, and TCP) can only be taken at certain times during the year. Basically, with the exception of some additional testing dates in June, the CPA Discipline sections are administered during the first month of each quarter.

  • Q1: January 1 – January 31
  • Q2: April 1 to April 30 AND June 1 to June 30
  • Q3: July 1 to July 31
  • Q4: October 1 to October 31

If you failed a section of the exam, you must wait for your score to be released before you can re-schedule an exam for the section you failed.

Prometric Seating

Prometric test sites don’t have unlimited seating for the CPA exam. Some testing sites are relatively small. So, schedule your exam as soon as possible after receiving your NTS. You want to ensure you have a seat in your preferred location on your preferred date. I’d recommend scheduling your exam 3-4 weeks in advance of your test date. Again, save yourself the stress of not getting in the door.

Prometric does offer a convenient “seat availability tool” through its website. The tool allows you to check availability at your preferred exam location. And you don’t need your NTS number to use it.

Prometric CPA Key Takeaways

If you lag behind or don’t want to pressure yourself to a fixed deadline to finish your study, you can schedule the exam later. Here are two important considerations:

  • If you wait too long, you run the risk of the Prometric CPA center being full.
  • Each CPA exam section takes 4 hours, so the center can’t fit that many candidates in a given time slot. Therefore, I suggest that you schedule at least 3 weeks (preferably 4 weeks) before your preferred exam date.

When should I schedule my test date for the CPA Exam?

When it comes to choosing a testing date for the CPA Exam, you can consider a couple different strategies.

The first approach (which is what I encourage you to do) is to schedule your exam early and work toward a specific goal. This means that as soon as you receive an approved Notice to Schedule (NTS), you can immediately go online and lock in a date for your exam. The advantages of this tactic include having a set deadline to motivate you and increasing your chances of getting your preferred exam day, time, and testing location. However, there are also potential downsides to scheduling early. For example, you might need to reschedule your CPA Exam if you underestimate your study time or if unforeseen circumstances arise, which may result in additional fees.

The second approach is to prioritize your studies first and schedule your exam once you feel adequately prepared. This method allows you to wait until you are confident before committing to a specific testing date. The benefits of this approach include knowing that you will be well-prepared on exam day, avoiding rescheduling fees, and eliminating the distraction of a looming deadline while you study. However, there are potential disadvantages to this strategy as well. Waiting too long to schedule may lead to procrastination due to the absence of a firm deadline, and you may be less likely to secure your preferred exam day, time, and testing location.

To strike a balance between these two approaches, we recommend studying first and then scheduling your exam once you feel approximately 80% prepared. This allows you to make progress with your studies without wasting time, ensuring that you have a solid foundation before selecting a testing date.

CPA Exam Scheduling Details

CPA exams are available during two months of each quarter, so you have a specific window in which to plan. It’s crucial to remember that you must schedule your exam within six months of receiving your NTS. Failing to do so means losing your exam fees for that section and having to pay again to re-register.

Scheduling Tip

Testing centers can fill up quickly, especially on popular dates. It’s wise to schedule your exam at least 3-4 weeks before your desired testing date to secure your spot. This proactive step helps avoid the stress of last-minute arrangements and ensures you can focus on your preparation.

Prometric CPA Reschedule Procedure

You can reschedule the test online as long as you have the exam section ID. You can change the date up to 24 hours before the exam.

However, timing is critical to avoid extra charges. You can cancel or reschedule your exam appointment at no additional cost if you do so at least 30 days in advance of your appointment. However, if you cancel or reschedule between 5 and 30 days of your appointment, you will have to pay a fee directly to Prometric.

Time Before Scheduled Appointment   Fees
30+ days No fees
5 – 30 days $35
1 – 4 days Full exam fees
Less than 24 hours Not allowed

If you end up needing to reschedule your CPA Exam less than 24 hours in advance, you’ll need to reapply or take the exam at your scheduled date and time. If possible, I’d recommend sitting for the exam in that case because you don’t want to forfeit your CPA Exam fees. Give it your best shot!

To reschedule or cancel an appointment, you must visit the Prometric site. From there, you need to enter your confirmation number and the first 4 characters of your last name. You can then view your appointment details and make updates.

Prometric, the CPA Evolution, and Scheduling Your 2025 CPA Exam

You’ve probably heard that the CPA Exam changed at the beginning of 2024. So to keep you prepared, I’ve laid out this guide to scheduling your CPA Exam with Prometric after the exam changes.

What are the CPA Exam sections on the 2025 exam version?

The CPA Exam consists of six sections, divided into two categories: core sections and discipline sections. But don’t worry – you don’t have to take all six CPA Exam sections! Instead, you’ll have to take three required core sections (AUD, FAR, and REG). AUD focuses on Auditing and Attestation, FAR covers Financial Accounting and Reporting, and REG focuses on Regulation.

In addition to these core sections, you must chose to take one of three discipline sections (BAR, ISC, or TCP) that allow candidates to choose one specific field of study. The BAR section focuses on Business Analysis and Reporting, ISC covers Information Systems and Controls, and TCP addresses Tax Compliance and Planning.

Therefore, candidates will have to study and pass one discipline section in addition to the three required core sections in order to complete the CPA Exam.

Pros and cons of starting with the hardest CPA Exam

If you are thinking of tackling the hardest section of the CPA Exam first, you have several pros and cons to consider.

Pros:

  1. Time Investment: By starting with the hardest CPA Exam section, you can devote a significant amount of study time without the risk of your previously passed sections expiring. This approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in mastering the hardest material without time constraints.
  2. Easier Prep: Once you pass the hardest CPA Exam section, the remaining sections will probably feel much easier. This progression can make studying for the remaining sections seem more manageable and less overwhelming.
  3. Confidence Boost: Conquering the hardest section is a great confidence boost! After you pass, you’ll be assured of your accounting abilities. Consequently, the boost can positively impact your motivation and performance in the later sections.

Cons:

  1. Discouragement: If you fail the hardest section on your first attempt, it can be really discouraging. The emotional toll of this setback can potentially hinder your motivation and make it more challenging to continue with the remaining sections. So keep this mind: if you’re not ready to take a section, it might be worth it (mentally, at least) to delay your CPA Exam section.
  2. Time Limitations: In certain circumstances, you might have time constraints to consider. If you do not pass all the required sections within a specific time frame (30 months after passing the first section), retaking the hardest section may pose a significant challenge. This time limitation adds pressure to your CPA Exam schedule and may push you to study harder to meet the deadline.
  3. Harder to Set Good Study Habits: Studying really hard material from the beginning makes it more challenging to establish good study habits. That is, the hardest CPA Exam section requires intense focus. So by starting with such a demanding task, it can be difficult to build the discipline and habits necessary for effectively studying for the remaining sections.

As you can see, it’s important to thoroughly weigh these pros and cons before deciding whether to tackle the hardest CPA Exam section first. Each person’s learning style and preferences may differ, so consider your own strengths, weaknesses, and circumstances to make an informed decision.

Will the new CPA Exam have lower scores?

You probably already know that the CPA Exam changes from time to time. In fact, it underwent to some major updates at the beginning of 2024. Plus, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) regularly incorporates new questions into the CPA Exam. As a result, the CPA Exam pass rates can flucuate from year to year. For that reason, we have an entire post devoted to the CPA pass rates.

Should I hurry to take the CPA Exam before it changes?

Although the CPA Exam saw major changes at the beginning of 2024, new questions are added to the exam every year. But instead of rushing to take the exam before changes occur, it’s best to remain focused on preparing thoroughly and passing the exam during your first attempt.

Does Prometric offer testing accommodations for CPA candidates?

Good news – Prometric offers testing accommodations for CPA candidates who need them. The types of accommodations vary and include adjustable desks for people with back injuries or text-to-speech software for those with hearing impairments. The complete list of accommodations available at all Prometric centers can be found in their testing accommodations PDF.

How can I get CPA Exam testing accommodations?

Keep this in mind: your jurisdiction’s board of accountancy must approve your testing accommodations before your exam day. To initiate this process, you should contact your board about the specific accommodations you need. Upon approval, your board will provide this information to NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy), which will then include your approved accommodations on your Notice to Schedule.

Important CPA Testing Accommodations Info

If you need special testing accommodations, please be aware that you cannot schedule or reschedule your exam through Prometric’s website. Instead, you must contact the Candidate Services Call Center at 1-800-580-9648 to make your scheduling arrangements.

In fact, if you need special testing accommodations, try to schedule your exams at least 10 days in advance to make sure everything goes smoothly. This gives Prometric enough time to accommodate your specific needs.

How do I schedule my CPA Exam?

To schedule your CPA Exam, follow these steps:

1. Select a testing center

Begin by choosing a suitable testing center from the available options near your location. Consider factors such as proximity, convenience, and the center’s reputation.

2. Choose a testing date

Determine the date on which you would like to take your CPA Exam. Make sure to consider factors like your level of preparedness and any other commitments or obligations that might affect your availability.

3. Gather testing documentation

Collect all the necessary testing documentation required by Prometric, including your ID and your Notice to Schedule.

4. Provide testing documentation to Prometric

Once you have gathered all the required documents, submit them to Prometric. This can typically be done online through their website or by contacting their customer service for further instructions.

5. Schedule in advance

It is important to schedule your exam well in advance to secure your preferred testing date and location. While the minimum requirement is at least five days in advance, it is recommended by the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) to schedule your CPA Exam at least 45 days ahead of ti

Prometric CPA FAQs

Does Prometric Charge Test Takers?

You will not pay Prometric directly for the CPA Exam. However, Prometric will be given a portion of your exam fees. As you may already know, CPA exam fees vary by state boards of accountancy.

I highly suggest you look into the CPA exam fees for the state or jurisdiction where you plan to practice.

I do want to add one caveat about fees. Initially, you do not have to pay Prometric directly for the CPA exam. But if you cancel or reschedule your exam, you may have to pay them an additional fee.

Is There a “Best” Time to Schedule the CPA Exam?

The best day to take the CPA Exam is the day that works best for you. In other words, there is no magic exam day.

In some cases, your exam may come down to your comfort and confidence level. For example, if you choose a Monday appointment, you’ll have the previous weekend to get in your last-minute studying. You can go into the exam with the content fresh in your mind. Conversely, you may prefer a Friday, so you have the following weekend to decompress. In the same way, if you are a morning person and feel more mentally sharp during the early hours, scheduling your exam for the morning may be ideal. This way, you can take advantage of your natural state of alertness and tackle the exam with a fresh mind. On the other hand, if you find that you are most productive and focused in the afternoon, it might be more beneficial to schedule your exam for that time. By doing so, you can ensure that you are not distracted by fatigue or mental exhaustion, which can hamper your performance.

However, your exam date can also just be a matter of convenience. If you work, have kids, or are in school, you may not have a lot of flexibility in your schedule. So, you take the most convenient date and go with it.

And regardless of whether you choose morning or afternoon, it is crucial to create and practice in a controlled environment leading up to the exam. This means avoiding any potential stressors or distractions that could impact your mental preparedness. Try to minimize negative work interactions or frustrating traffic situations that may affect your mindset on exam day. By maintaining a calm and focused state of mind, you give yourself the best chance to perform at your peak and achieve success on the CPA Exam.

But How Will I Know When I’m Ready to Schedule My CPA Exam?

So, you may never feel 100% ready to take the CPA exam. And there are certainly instances in which you’d want to delay your CPA Exam. However, if you’ve been studying diligently, you can feel more secure in your decision to take the exam as scheduled. I can offer you 2 pieces of advice to help you boost your confidence.

First, I highly recommend investing in a CPA exam review course. This type, of course, helps prepare you for the exam and gives you the tools to ensure you can pass on the first try.

Many of the CPA review courses include practice questions, flashcards, and exam simulations. Some programs also offer support from actual CPAs, free trials, and guarantees that you will have access to the content until you pass the exam.

However, a CPA review course is an investment. Therefore, I want you to make an informed decision. I provide detailed reviews of the most well-known and best CPA exam prep courses. Once you decide, I also offer CPA review discounts to help you save.

Study Hours

Second, ensure you’re building in enough time for studying. Now, as a general rule, you should plan to spend 80 to 150 hours studying for each exam section. So, roughly speaking, you should spend 330-440 hours preparing for the complete exam. However, these estimates can be shorter or longer based on your current understanding of the exam content and whatever else you have going on in your life (e.g., kids, work).

What are the sections of the CPA Exam after January 1, 2024?

The CPA Exam changed in 2024! (Those changes are still in place for the 2025 CPA Exam.) After January 1st, 2024, the CPA Exam will consist of six sections divided into two categories: core sections and discipline sections. The three required core sections are AUD, FAR, and REG. AUD focuses on Auditing and Attestation, FAR covers Financial Accounting and Reporting, and REG focuses on Regulation. In addition to the core sections, there are three CPA Discipline Sections: BAR, ISC, and TCP. These discipline sections allow candidates to choose one specific field of study. The BAR section focuses on Business Analysis and Reporting, ISC covers Information Systems and Controls, and TCP addresses Tax Compliance and Planning. Therefore, candidates will have to study and pass one discipline section in addition to the three required core sections in order to complete the CPA Exam after January 1st, 2024.

What section of the CPA Exam should I schedule first?

Choosing which section of the CPA Exam to schedule first ultimately depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. However, you can consider several common approaches. First, you could start with the section that interests you the most. Second, another approach is to begin with the section that is generally considered easiest for you. For instance, if you have recently completed relevant coursework or if you have work experience in a particular area covered by the CPA Exam, starting with that section may provide you with a sense of confidence. Third, some candidates choose to tackle the hardest section first. But ultimately, you should carefully reflect on your personal strengths, interests, and goals when deciding which section of the CPA Edam to schedule first.

Do you have to take all the CPA Exam sections at once?

No, you are not required to take all parts of the CPA Exam at once. That would be a nightmare, wouldn’t it! Thankfully, though, the CPA Exam allows for flexible scheduling, and you can choose to take multiple sections of the exam at different times. (That is, as long as you pass all of the sections within 30 months.) Most candidates focus on one exam section at a time to increase their chances of passing. However, if you have time constraints or other factors that require you to take multiple parts on the same day, it is possible to do so. (In fact, I took sections back-to-back and passed on my first try!) If you have to do this, try to adjust your study plan so your testing times do not overlap.

Plus, it’s worth noting that the Prometric online scheduler does not provide a warning if there is an overlap in testing times. So it is up to you to double-check your schedule to avoid issues.

How does Prometric scheduling work for international candidates?

International candidates taking the CPA Exam have several options. Many states participate in the international administration of the exam, which means that candidates can choose to take the exam in various Prometric testing centers located in different countries. Some of the countries that offer these testing centers include England, Scotland, Ireland, Germany, Japan, Brazil, Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon, The United Arab Emirates, and India.

However, before scheduling an exam at an international Prometric center, it is important for candidates to confirm with their state board first. After all, each state can have specific requirements or regulations for international candidates.

How can I make sure I’m well-rested for the CPA Exam?

Getting adequate rest before your CPA Exam is crucial for optimal performance! So here are some key strategies to help ensure you are well-rested and ready. First, avoid last-minute studying. Second, establish a calm evening routine, and disconnect from your study materials early. Third, aim for a full night’s sleep. And finally, create a restful environment. By implementing these tips, you can wake up refreshed and mentally prepared to tackle the CPA Exam.

How can I avoid common mistakes on CPA Exam day?

To ensure you face no setbacks on the day of your CPA Exam, being well-prepared is key. But you can do a few things to prepare! Plan your arrival, and ensure that you arrive early to the testing location. Late arrivals may not be permitted to take the exam as scheduled, so give yourself plenty of leeway to avoid unexpected delays. Bring your essential documents, and always remember to bring your Notice to Schedule (NTS) with you. Double-check the date on your NTS to confirm it is valid for your testing session. This document is crucial as it allows you entry into the exam. Plus, be aware of the time limits from the moment you start the exam. You will initially have 10 minutes to go through three introductory screens. Failing to complete this in the allotted time will terminate the exam session immediately. By keeping these points in mind and preparing accordingly, you can avoid common pitfalls and set yourself up for success on your CPA Exam day!

How can I schedule testing accommodates for the CPA Exam?

Prometric provides a wide range of accommodations for qualified individuals. These accommodations cater to various needs, such as adjustable desks for individuals with back injuries or text-to-speech software for those with hearing impairments. The complete list of accommodations available at all Prometric centers can be found in their testing accommodations PDF.

It is important to note that all testing accommodations must be approved by your respective board of accountancy. To initiate this process, you should inform your board of accountancy about the specific accommodations you require. Upon approval, your board of accountancy will provide this information to NASBA, which will then include your approved accommodations on your Notice to Schedule. If you are a candidate with approved special testing accommodations, please be aware that you cannot schedule or reschedule your exam through Prometric’s website. Instead, you must contact the Candidate Services Call Center at 1-800-580-9648 to make your scheduling arrangements.

To ensure smooth scheduling, it is advisable for candidates with special testing accommodations to schedule their exams at least 10 days in advance of their desired testing date. This allows ample time for the necessary arrangements to be made to accommodate your specific needs. By following these guidelines and coordinating with the appropriate authorities, you can ensure that your testing accommodations are properly scheduled for the CPA Exam.

How can I schedule a Prometric Test Dive?

It’s easy to schedule a Prometric Test Drive. Simply visit the Prometric CPA page and find the “schedule your test drive” option on the left menu. If you require testing accommodation(s), indicate whether you have been pre-approved for them. If you answer “yes,” you will need to provide your eligibility number and the first four characters of your last name. However, f you answer “no” but require accommodations, contact Prometric. Then, under the Test Selection options, select “Prometric Test Drive.” Enter your address, city, or zip/postal code, along with the desired date range for your Test Drive. Next, from the available list, choose your preferred appointment time and test center location. Finally, once you pay the required $30.00 fee for the Prometric test drive, you’ll confirm your appointment to complete the scheduling process.

What time should I schedule my CPA Exam?

When determining the best time to schedule your CPA Exam, it is important to consider your own peak alertness and study preferences. If you are a morning person and feel more mentally sharp during the early hours, scheduling your exam for the morning may be ideal. This way, you can take advantage of your natural state of alertness and tackle the exam with a fresh mind. On the other hand, if you find that you are most productive and focused in the afternoon, it might be more beneficial to schedule your exam for that time. By doing so, you can ensure that you are not distracted by fatigue or mental exhaustion, which can hamper your chances of passing your exam.

What is the best day to take the CPA Exam?

You can take the CPA Exam during the work week and during the weekend, too. However, I recommend scheduling the CPA Exam on a non-workday or taking the day off from work. This helps to avoid carrying work-related stress into the testing center, which will keep your mind off passing the CPA Exam. Keep in mind that weekends are always going to fill up faster than weekdays. However, no testing day performs statistically better than any others.

Is there a best time of year to take the CPA Exam?

Yes, there is indeed a recommended time to consider taking the CPA Exam. Research suggests that candidates perform best in the second and third quarters of each year. In fact, during this period, CPA Exam candidates tend to experience pass rates that are up to 10% higher compared to other quarters. This pattern has led to the identification of a concept called the “CPA Exam Golden Window,” which highlights the advantage of scheduling the exam during these specific months. Taking this into account, it is worth considering the second and third quarters as the best time to undertake the CPA Exam for a potentially enhanced chance of success.

How to choose a testing date for the CPA Exam?

When it comes to choosing a testing date for the CPA Exam, there are a few strategies you can consider. One approach is to schedule your exam early and work towards a specific goal. This means that as soon as you receive an approved Notice to Schedule (NTS), you can immediately secure a date for your exam. After all, this approach increases your chances of getting your preferred exam day, time, and testing location. Another approach is to prioritize your studies first and schedule your exam once you feel adequately prepared. This method allows you to wait until you are confident in your knowledge and readiness before committing to a specific testing date. The benefits of this approach include knowing that you will be well-prepared on exam day, avoiding rescheduling fees, and eliminating the distraction of a looming deadline while you study.

However, there are potential disadvantages to this strategy as well. Waiting too long to schedule may lead to procrastination due to the absence of a firm deadline, and you may be less likely to secure your preferred exam day, time, and testing location. To strike a balance between these two approaches, we recommend studying first and then scheduling your exam once you feel approximately 80% prepared. This allows you to make progress with your studies without wasting time, ensuring that you have a solid foundation before selecting a testing date.

What Should I Bring to the CPA Prometric Testing Site?

Again, you want to be as stress-free as possible come exam day. As part of this, you need to be prepared to walk into your Prometric site with everything required to sit for the exam.

On test day, Prometric requires you to have:

  • Two forms of identification
  • Your NTS

Now, you won’t be able to take the CPA exam without the items I’ve listed.

In other words, plan ahead and double/triple-check that you have them before you head to Prometric.

items to bring to cpa prometric testing center

What to Do Before the Exam?

Preparing for your CPA exam involves more than just logistical arrangements; it requires strategic study and thorough preparation. Here’s how you can ensure you’re ready:

  1. Double-check that the information on your primary photo ID exactly matches the name on your NTS.
  2. Confirm with Prometric that your space is indeed reserved on that particular exam site in that particular time slot.
  3. Make sure you know exactly how to get to the Prometric center and consider the traffic condition around the time of your exam.
  4. Get familiar with how the computerized exam works by trying the computerized test tutorial on the Uniform CPA exam website.
  5. If you plan to drive, make sure your car is functioning properly. Check gas levels the day before. And if traffic might give you a problem while traveling to the Prometric site, be sure to plan ahead.

In addition to these important logistical steps, bolster your exam readiness by incorporating targeted study methods:

  • Explore CPA Cram Courses: If you haven’t used a CPA cram course before, now is the time to consider it. These intensive courses offer focused review materials that can significantly enhance your preparation in the weeks leading up to the exam. They help reinforce key concepts and improve your test-taking strategies.
  • Evaluate Top Review Courses: Take the time to research and choose from the top CPA review courses available. Each course offers unique features and benefits, so select one that aligns with your learning style and schedule. This strategic selection can make a substantial difference in your understanding and retention of the material.

By combining detailed logistical planning with strategic study resources, you are setting yourself up for success on exam day.

Consider Taking a Prometric Test Drive

For $30, you can book 30 minutes for a real-life experience at the center. Nothing will be graded. You can also take the opportunity to find out the best way to travel to the site.

About the Author Stephanie Ng

I am the author of How to Pass The CPA Exam (published by Wiley), and I also passed all 4 sections of the CPA Exam on my first try. Additionally, I have led webinars, such as for the Institute of Management Accountants, authored featured articles on websites like Going Concern and AccountingWeb, and I'm also the CFO for the charity New Sight. Finally, I have created other accounting certification websites to help mentor non-CPA candidates. I have already mentored thousands of CPA, CMA, CIA, EA, and CFA candidates, and I can help you too!

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