How Long Does It Take to Get NTS for CPA Exam?

The Notice to Schedule (NTS) is an important document for individuals pursuing Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure. It authorizes a candidate to schedule and sit for specific sections of the Uniform CPA Examination. Without an NTS, candidates cannot access the examination. It confirms eligibility for the listed exam sections.

Steps for NTS Application Submission

The NTS application process begins with the relevant State Board of Accountancy or its designated agent. Candidates must submit official academic transcripts from all colleges and universities attended to demonstrate fulfillment of educational requirements. Transcripts are often sent directly from institutions to the board. An initial educational evaluation application may be necessary before the exam section application.

Candidates must complete application forms and pay associated fees. Fees vary by jurisdiction, ranging from $50 to $300. After State Board approval, NASBA issues a payment coupon for examination section fees. Examination fees are generally $200-$300 per section, with additional registration fees of $40-$200 per section.

Ensure all application information, including personal details, matches identification documents for the testing center. Any discrepancies can lead to delays or denial of entry to the exam. Review all submitted materials to prevent rejection or additional costs.

Factors Influencing NTS Processing Times

Several factors impact NTS receipt time after application submission. The specific State Board of Accountancy is a primary determinant, as processing times vary across jurisdictions. Each board operates with its own procedures and staffing levels, influencing the speed of application review.

Completeness and accuracy of submitted materials are significant. Missing documents, incorrect information, or discrepancies lead to substantial delays, requiring corrections or additional submissions. Timely delivery of official transcripts is another influencing factor, as delays can hold up the process.

Peak application periods, such as those before popular testing windows, increase processing queues and wait times. During these busy times, the volume of applications can overwhelm processing capacity, extending the duration before an NTS is issued.

Typical NTS Processing Timelines

Initial NTS applications typically process in three to eight weeks from submission to receipt. State Board approval can take three to eight weeks, depending on workload. Once approved and fees paid, the NTS is usually issued within 10 business days, or as quickly as three business days if sent via email or fax.

Re-applications for additional exam sections process much quicker. New NTS may be received within 24 to 48 hours or a few business days after paying re-examination fees. Candidates can monitor application status and NTS availability through the NASBA CPA Candidate Portal.

Actions After NTS Receipt

Upon NTS receipt, verify all personal information and listed exam sections match identification documents. Report any discrepancies to the State Board of Accountancy or NASBA’s CPA Examination Services without delay to avoid testing center issues. The NTS authorizes scheduling an exam section and contains a unique section identification number for the process.

Candidates schedule exam appointments through the Prometric website, selecting preferred testing center, date, and time. Schedule the exam as far in advance as possible (ideally 45 days prior) to secure a preferred slot; a minimum of five days in advance is required. The NTS validity period is typically six months from issuance, ranging from 90 days to nine months depending on the jurisdiction.

Schedule and take all authorized exam sections before the NTS expires, as expired NTS documents result in forfeiture of associated fees. If an NTS expires before an exam is taken, candidates must reapply for a new NTS and pay all fees again. This reapplication process can take several weeks, potentially delaying the CPA examination journey.