How Long Does It Take to Pass All Four CPA Exam Sections?

2 minute read

Long read

Most candidates need 12-18 months from start to CPA license. The AICPA gives you a 30-month rolling window once you pass your first section — plenty of runway if you plan each section carefully.

CPA Exam Timelines and Study Hour Targets

Quick Answer

Typical candidates take 12-18 months to pass all four sections, studying 300-400 hours total. The AICPA rolling window is 30 months after your first pass — so there's meaningful breathing room.

The Full Explanation

Each section targets approximately 80-120 study hours for well-prepared candidates. Becker, Surgent, and UWorld Roger all publish recommended hour ranges that are close to that estimate. Candidates who are returning to study after a gap often need more.

The CPA Exam under the 2024 model includes three core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) and a discipline section (BAR, ISC, or TCP). Most candidates tackle FAR first because it's the heaviest content load.

The 30-month rolling credit window (expanded from 18 months in January 2024) means your first-passed section stays valid for 30 months — enough time to comfortably pass the other three at 6-8 month intervals.

Working candidates typically study 15-20 hours per week for 8-10 weeks per section, pass two sections per year, and complete everything in 18-24 months. Full-time candidates can often finish in 9-12 months.

Realistic CPA Exam Pacing

Study hours per section: 80-120
Total study hours: 300-480
Working candidate pace: 2 sections per year, finish in 18-24 months
Intensive pace: 4 sections in 8-12 months
Rolling credit window: 30 months after first pass
Recommended first section: FAR (heaviest content)

Key Takeaways

Typical timeline: 12-18 months start to license
Budget 300-400 study hours total
The 30-month rolling window gives generous runway
FAR first is the conventional starting order

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Conclusion

If you work full-time, plan 18 months. If you can dedicate serious time, 9-12 is feasible. The new 30-month window makes the exam significantly more forgiving than the old 18-month rule.