If you are planning to become a Certified Public Accountant, understanding the CPA subjects is the first and most important step. The CPA qualification, administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), is one of the most prestigious accounting credentials globally.
This guide explains the updated CPA subjects, exam structure, and what each section covers.
Overview of CPA Subjects (2024 Exam Structure)
Under the CPA Evolution model, candidates must pass:
3 Core Sections (Mandatory)
1 Discipline Section (Choose 1 out of 3)
Let’s examine the CPA subjects in detail.
Core CPA Subjects (Mandatory for All Candidates)
1. Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
This section focuses on audit procedures and assurance services.
Key Topics:
Audit reports
Internal controls
Risk assessment
Professional ethics
Evidence gathering
AUD tests your understanding of audit frameworks and compliance standards.
2. Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
FAR is considered the most technical among the CPA subjects.
Key Topics:
US GAAP
Financial statements
Governmental accounting
Non-profit accounting
Revenue recognition
This section requires strong conceptual clarity and numerical accuracy.
3. Taxation and Regulation (REG)
REG focuses on federal taxation and business law.
Key Topics:
Individual taxation
Corporate taxation
Business law
Ethics and professional responsibilities
It evaluates your ability to apply tax rules in practical scenarios.
Discipline CPA Subjects (Choose One)
Candidates must select one specialization based on career goals.
4. Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
Best suited for candidates interested in financial analysis and reporting.
Key Areas:
Advanced financial reporting
Data analytics
Technical accounting
Financial statement analysis
5. Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
Ideal for candidates inclined toward IT audit and systems control.
Key Areas:
IT governance
Data security
Internal controls over technology
SOC reports
6. Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
Best for those aiming for taxation careers.
Key Areas:
Advanced tax compliance
Tax planning strategies
Multi-entity taxation
Individual and corporate tax planning
Structure of CPA Subjects
Each CPA exam section:
Duration: 4 hours
Includes Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
Task-Based Simulations (TBS)
Written communication (in some sections)
Candidates can appear for sections in any order.
Difficulty Level of CPA Subjects
Among the CPA subjects:
FAR is often considered the most comprehensive
AUD requires strong conceptual understanding
REG demands tax law clarity
Discipline sections depend on specialization choice
Proper planning and structured preparation are essential for success.
How to Choose the Right Discipline?
Your choice should depend on:
Career goals (Audit, Tax, Consulting, Analytics)
Strengths (Technical accounting vs IT vs Tax)
Industry demand
Selecting the right discipline helps align your CPA subjects with long-term professional growth.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the CPA subjects is crucial before starting your CPA journey. With three core papers and one discipline specialization, the CPA exam is structured to develop both technical depth and industry-relevant expertise.
If you aim to build a global accounting career, mastering the CPA subjects is your gateway to becoming a highly respected finance professional.