Got your score back? This guide breaks down every scored area on the 2026 CPA exam, explains what Stronger, Comparable, and Weaker actually mean, and gives you a retake study plan based on your specific results.

For most candidates, the best order to take the CPA exams is FAR first, then your Discipline section, then REG, then AUD. Taking FAR first delays when the 30-month score clock starts, front-loads the hardest challenge while motivation is highest, and creates a momentum-building descent through progressively more manageable sections.

Each CPA exam section is 4 hours long. With four sections required to earn licensure, the total testing time is 16 hours. This guide breaks down the exact question counts, testlet structure, score validity rules, and everything else you need to plan your CPA exam timeline.

Struggling with basis rules or itemized deductions? Test your tax knowledge with our 10-question interactive REG quiz and expert video explanations.