CPA Exam Pass Rates – Q2 2025: A Stronger Quarter for CPA Aspirants
Wed Jul 30 2025
Introduction
The CPA Exam is known for its high standards, rigorous content, and global recognition. As the accounting profession evolves under the CPA Evolution initiative, so does the nature of the exam - and the performance of candidates worldwide.
Understanding CPA Exam pass rates is vital for anyone preparing for this prestigious credential. These statistics not only reflect overall performance but also help aspirants strategically plan their preparation based on industry trends.
In this blog, Simandhar Education presents the official pass rates for Q2 2025, recently published by the AICPA, along with a comparative analysis of the first and second quarters of the year. The data reveals a noticeable improvement across all sections, reaffirming the importance of focused preparation and proper guidance.
CPA Exam Pass Rates – Q2 2025 Overview
The CPA Exam now follows the Core + Discipline structure. Candidates must pass three Core sections - AUD, FAR, and REG - and choose one Discipline section from BAR, ISC, or TCP.
Here’s how candidates performed in Q2 2025:
| Exam Section | Pass Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| AUD | 49.05% |
| FAR | 43.52% |
| REG | 63.58% |
| BAR | 47.26% |
| ISC | 71.96% |
| TCP | 80.63% |
Quarterly Comparison – Q1 vs Q2 2025
Let’s look at how Q2 performance compares to Q1 across all CPA Exam sections:
| Section | Q1 Pass Rate (%) | Q2 Pass Rate (%) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUD | 44.30% | 49.05% | ⬆ +4.75% |
| FAR | 41.67% | 43.52% | ⬆ +1.85% |
| REG | 62.03% | 63.58% | ⬆ +1.55% |
| BAR | 37.64% | 47.26% | ⬆ +9.62% |
| ISC | 61.23% | 71.96% | ⬆ +10.73% |
| TCP | 74.94% | 80.63% | ⬆ +5.69% |
Key Observations
Core Sections
- FAR and AUD continue to present significant challenges, with Q2 pass rates at 43.52% and 49.05% respectively. While slightly improved from Q1, they underscore the complexity and depth of accounting and auditing concepts required.
- REG maintains a relatively strong performance, improving slightly from Q1 to 63.58%. This suggests stronger candidate preparedness in areas like taxation and business law.
Discipline Sections
- TCP (Tax Compliance and Planning) is emerging as the most approachable Discipline section, with a pass rate of 80.63%, up from 74.94% in Q1.
- ISC (Information Systems and Controls) also showed notable growth, jumping from 61.23% to 71.96% in pass rate. This reflects candidates’ increasing comfort with tech-integrated finance roles.
- BAR (Business Analysis and Reporting), although improved, remains the most challenging Discipline section, rising from 37.64% to 47.26%.
What This Means for CPA Aspirants
The upward trend in pass rates suggests that more candidates are adapting successfully to the revised CPA Exam structure. Here’s how future aspirants can benefit from this data:
- Use the trends to make informed decisions about Discipline section selection.
- Recognize that rigorous preparation pays off, especially with structured guidance and expert mentorship.
- Consider focusing on high-performing sections like TCP and ISC, provided they align with your background and career goals.
At Simandhar Education, our students consistently exceed national averages - thanks to our Becker-powered learning platform, live mentorship, AI-driven planning tools, and a robust success ecosystem designed for CPA aspirants.
Conclusion
The Q2 2025 CPA Exam pass rates provide a strong signal of improvement and confidence among CPA candidates. With every quarter, aspirants are becoming better equipped to take on the challenges of the evolving CPA curriculum.
At Simandhar Education, we remain dedicated to supporting your CPA journey - from your first lesson to your final exam. Our faculty, resources, and one-on-one mentorship help students prepare strategically and succeed consistently.
Take the next step today.
Call us at +91 7780273388 or visit www.simandhareducation.com
for a free counselling session.
Let’s build your future in accounting - together.
FAQs – CPA Exam Pass Rates Q2 2025
Q1. Why did pass rates
increase in Q2 2025?
A: Candidates are becoming more familiar with the CPA Evolution format, and
improved preparation tools like Simandhar’s structured curriculum and
mentorship are contributing to better performance.
Q2. Which CPA Exam
section was the easiest in Q2 2025?
A: TCP (Tax Compliance and Planning) had the highest pass rate at 80.63%,
making it the top-performing section in Q2.
Q3. Should I choose my
Discipline section based on pass rate?
A: Not solely. While pass rates can help inform your decision, choose a section
that aligns with your background, strengths, and career aspirations.
Simandhar's expert counsellors can guide you.
Q4. What if I failed in
Q1? Should I attempt again in Q3?
A: Absolutely. Many students retake exams in subsequent quarters and perform
better with targeted preparation and professional support.
Q5. How can Simandhar
Education help me clear the CPA Exam?
A: With live classes + Recorded classes, 1:1 mentorship, doubt-clearing
sessions, mock exams, and AI-backed study tools, Simandhar provides the most
comprehensive CPA training experience in India.