What is the CPA exam pass rate?

The annual CPA exam pass rate for all four parts have been on average of about 46% to 59%. As a result, the argument among CPA exam candidates has been that the exam is difficult to pass. While this has merit, the pass rates also indicate their level of preparedness and exam preparation strategy, and the resources used. Indirectly, these pass rates show the level of effort, commitment and attitude required of students to pass.

At CPA Exam Coach, we believe all students with the right guidance and resources can pass the CPA exam. The students who come to us include those who have used other resources several times and have not passed. We work with all students (both high and low achievers) because we believe it is more so your circumstances and attitudes, rather than your aptitude, which prevent or promote your success.

The key to success:

  • How much you really want to pass, and
  • Practice, Practice, Practice

The AICPA releases exam scores and CPA exam pass rate on a periodic basis. They also provide cumulative annual average pass rates for each course. These annual pass rates for four prior years and the current year’s quarterly pass rates are reflected below.

Pass Rates 2024

Score release dates and pass rates will be delayed because of the 2024 exam changes. Pass rates will be published as soon as they are available.

Quarterly CPA Exam Pass Rates for 2023

Courses Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Overall
AUD 47.01% 48.24% 45.64% NYP 46.92%
BEC 56.98% 59.16% 54.90%   56.52%
FAR 41.82% 42.78% 44.08%   42.94%
REG 58.63% 59.71% 59.13%   59.19%

Click for more on AICPA Pass Rates.

NYP – Not yet published

Annual CPA Exam Pass Rate for 2019 - 2023 (Graph View)

Annual CPA Exam Pass Rates for 2019 - 2023 (Table View)

The table below shows the cumulative annual pass rates for four prior years. For more information on the pass rates for these years, as well as prior pass rates, please select the link above to access additional information on the AICPA website.

Courses 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019
AUD 46.92% 47.90% 47.98% 47.97% 51.01%
BEC 56.52% 59.85% 61.94% 61.76% 59.98%
FAR 42.94% 43.76% 44.54% 46.37% 46.31%
REG 59.19% 59.85% 59.88% 55.42% 56.34%

Contact CPA EXAM COACH to learn more about our solutions for passing the CPA Exam. Register with CPA EXAM COACH and let’s work together to get you passed.

You may also email us at info@cpaexamcoach.com to have your questions and concerns about the CPA Exam answered.