When scores come out, how to read your performance report, and what the ratings mean. Sources: NASBA.org, AICPA.
CPA exam scores are released by NASBA in batches, not in real time. After you sit for the exam, your responses are sent to the AICPA for scoring. NASBA then releases scores to state boards, who make them available to candidates.
Score release typically happens within 2-3 weeks of the testing window close date. NASBA publishes a score release timeline at the beginning of each year.
You can check your score through your NASBA CPA Central account or your state board's portal, depending on your jurisdiction.
NASBA publishes target release dates. Actual release may vary by 1-2 days. Check NASBA.org for the latest schedule.
| Testing Window | Exam Dates | Target Score Release |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | Jan 1 – Mar 31 | Rolling releases, typically within 2-3 weeks of testing window close |
| Q2 | Apr 1 – Jun 30 | Rolling releases |
| Q3 | Jul 1 – Sep 30 | Rolling releases |
| Q4 | Oct 1 – Dec 31 | Rolling releases |
NASBA releases scores in batches throughout each testing window. Visit NASBA.org for the most current specific release dates.
CPA exam scores range from 0 to 99. A score of 75 or higher is passing. The score is not a percentage — it is a scaled score based on the difficulty of the questions you received and your performance relative to the passing standard.
If you score below 75, your score report includes performance ratings by content area. These are the key to understanding what to study differently for your next attempt.
Each content area on a failing score report receives one of three performance ratings. These are relative to the passing standard — not to other candidates.
Stronger
Your performance in this area was above the passing standard. This is a relative strength — you answered enough questions correctly in this content area to meet or exceed what a minimally qualified candidate would demonstrate.
Study implication: Maintenance mode. Review periodically but do not allocate major study hours here.
Comparable
Your performance in this area was near the passing standard — neither clearly above nor clearly below. You are close but not reliably above the threshold.
Study implication: Moderate priority. Targeted practice in this area could push it from “comparable” to “stronger,” which may be the difference between 74 and 76.
Weaker
Your performance in this area was below the passing standard. This is where you lost the most points relative to what was needed.
Study implication: Highest priority. This area needs the most study hours on your next attempt. Focus on understanding the underlying concepts, not just memorizing answers.
Your score report ratings map directly to the AICPA's FAR blueprint content areas:
| Content Area | Blueprint Weight | Your Rating | Study Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
| I: Financial Reporting | 30-40% | [Your rating] | Based on rating + weight |
| II: Select Balance Sheet Accounts | 30-40% | [Your rating] | Based on rating + weight |
| III: Select Transactions | 25-35% | [Your rating] | Based on rating + weight |
The principle: a “Weaker” rating in an area weighted at 30-40% of the exam costs you more points than a “Weaker” in an area weighted at 25-35%. Your study hours should be allocated proportionally — more hours to higher- weight areas where you are weakest.
Have your score report? Get an instant blueprint-weighted analysis.
Analyze Your Score ReportAlready taken the diagnostic? See the full FAR system →