CPA Exam
Certification
The Illinois Board of Examiners (ILBOE) protects the public interest by evaluating academic credentials, approving candidates to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam, and issuing a certificate of CPA Exam Completion to individuals who pass the Uniform CPA Exam and the AICPA Ethics Exam.
New and Returning Candidates
New Candidates
Learn about the CPA requirements and the approval process.
Approved Candidates
Learn about testing and the certification process.
Returning Candidates
Resume your testing, verify your credentials and more.
ILBOE Announcements
Score Release
Scores for August 16 – September 7 have been released. The next score release date is October 10 for tests taken between September 8 and September 30.
Official paper score notices with the comparative performance report are mailed out 2-3 weeks after the score release date.
New Education Requirements
Illinois candidates for the Uniform CPA Exam may now sit under new education requirements effective January 1, 2023. To see these new requirements, click here.
These new rules do not affect the requirements for obtaining certification. To be certified, a candidate must still earn a total of 150 semester credit hours.
Applications for the 2024 CPA Exam
The ILBOE will stop accepting Initial Exam applications for BEC as of midnight on October 1, 2023. Re-Exam applications for BEC will be accepted through November 12, 2023.
The ILBOE will begin accepting applications for BAR, ISC and TCP on November 15, 2023
30 Month Rule
The UAA Model Rules have no immediate effect on state board rules. However, the Illinois Board is working to provide a 30-month extension for unexpired exam credits as of January 1, 2024. This work involves pursuing a rule change through the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules in Springfield. This is a lengthy process and as a result, the ILBOE is unable to establish a firm starting date. Once the rule is passed, we will announce details on our website.
Meanwhile, everyone who has an unexpired exam credit as of January 1, 2024 will have that credit extended to June 30, 2025.
FAQ
Have a question for us? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions that we at ILBOE get:
Don’t see an answer to your question? Please click here to see all frequently asked questions.
How do I get started?
To begin, create an online account submit the application that best reflects your education, and ask every post-secondary school you have attended to send in your official transcript.
How do I get Provisional Approval?
Provisional approval is automatically granted if you are eligible. Be sure to list your current classes on your credentials evaluation application.
Does work experience need to be included with my transcripts?
Work experience gained during an internship as part of a post-secondary school’s degree requirements will most likely count toward your credentials evaluation. Work experience not earned at a post-secondary school may be relevant when you apply for a license with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
How will I know if I am approved or found deficient?
Upon making your application, you will be asked to provide an email address. The ILBOE sends all communications to that email address.
How do I get an NTS?
An NTS is the last step of the application process. You cannot get an NTS until your credentials have been evaluated and you have been approved to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam.
Can I make an appointment to talk to someone about my credentials?
No. The ILBOE does not provide advisement services.
