AICPA Releases Blueprints for The New CPA Exam
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), recently released the updated Uniform CPA Examination® Blueprints, the official document used to create CPA exam questions. The updates come as a result of the increasing demands of CPAs, including their need to be fluent in business analysis, information systems and tax compliance.
The updated Blueprints introduce a new exam format that will create flexibility and enable rising accountants to demonstrate their strengths and interests. The new exam will require every student to complete three core sections, in addition to one of the following, based on the candidate’s desired career path:
- Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
- Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
These new Blueprints also focus heavily on additional technology concepts, including System and Organization Controls (SOC) engagements, data, technology and personal financial planning. This emphasis is based on a 2021 survey by AICPA that asked what knowledge and skillsets newly licensed CPAs (nlCPAs) needed. The survey results showed that nlCPAs are operating under increased pressure from a complex technological and regulatory environment.
To access the CPA Examination Blueprints – effective January 1, 2024 – click here.
For those interested in becoming a TXCPA, we encourage you to review our previous blog post about the benefits of being a TXCPA. If you’re already a licensed TXCPA and are looking for a new accounting firm to call home, we encourage you to apply to work at SST Accountants & Consultants. You can learn more about our team of CPAs on our website.
