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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.

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New and Returning Candidates

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New Candidates

Learn about the CPA requirements and the approval process.

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Approved Candidates

Learn about testing and the certification process.

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Returning Candidates

Resume your testing, verify your credentials and more.

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ILBOE Announcements

Score Release

Scores for November 27 to December 15 have been released. 2024 score releases are different for Core vs. Discipline exams.

For Core exams (AUD, FAR, REG) taken between January 10, 2024 and March 26, 2024 the score release date is June 4, 2024. For Discipline exams (ISC, TCP, BAR) taken between January 10, 2024 and February 6, 2024, the score release date is April 24, 2024.

Official paper score notices with the comparative performance report are mailed out 2-3 weeks after the score release date.

View 2023-2024 Score release dates

NASBA's Credit Relief Initiative

At the December 14, 2023 Board meeting, the ILBOE decided it will not adopt the Credit Relief Initiative proposed by NASBA. Instead, the Board’s Candidacy Committee will accept individual appeals for credit extensions. You can file an appeal with our Executive Director, Carlarta Ratchford.

Blanket Credit Extension

All candidates who have an unexpired exam credit as of January 1, 2024 will have that credit extended to June 30, 2025.

30 Month Rule

Beginning January 1, 2024, you have 30 months from the score release date of your first passed exam section to pass the remaining three (3) parts of the CPA exam. This 30-month deadline is shown as an expiration date in your online account. You must take and pass your last exam section on or before that deadline date. Be aware that exam scores begin to be voided if you test after the deadline date. For details see Uniform CPA Exam | Illinois Board of Examiners (ilboe.org)

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Can I make an appointment to talk to someone about my credentials?

No. The ILBOE does not provide advisement services.