The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) just confirmed that some of the changes planned for the April 2017 CPA Exam will now be implemented in 2016. Although these changes will not be as complex as those in 2017, candidates can benefit from a full understanding of the scope and how it may impact their Exam experience.
Originally planned for 2017, Document Review Simulation (DRS) will be introduced to three parts of the Exam – FAR, REG and AUD – in July 2016. DRS is the new type of task-based simulation that will increase exam authenticity, presenting candidates with realistic tasks that simulate what a newly licensed CPA might be expected to experience in the workplace. Candidates planning to take the CPA Exam in 2016 may want to consider taking one of these three sections prior to July 2016 if they don’t want to experience the new format change.
Also, on January 4, 2016 the CPA Exam interface will be refreshed to make the Exam more intuitive and easier to navigate. Subtle differences will be noticeable on the introductory screens, buttons and Exam clock.