NASBA/AICPA Approve Revisions to the Statement on Standards for CPE

SHARE:

Author: Erin Scruggs, MBA; Associate Director, National Registry
Posted: May 20, 2026

NASBA and the AICPA are pleased to announce the approval of revisions to the Statement on Standards (Standards) for Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Programs. This important update reflects the continued evolution of the CPE profession and supports high-quality learning in an environment shaped by advancing technology, changing delivery models and innovative learning design. The National Registry of CPE Sponsors has always had a clear purpose: to help ensure that CPE sponsors for the accounting profession provide meaningful, reliable content that is aligned with the expectations of Boards of Accountancy.

As shared in previous CPE Monitor newsletter editions, the CPE Standards Working Group has been reviewing the Standards with a focus on building flexibility for the future while maintaining the integrity, measurability and verifiability of CPE programs. The revised Standards are organized around seven principles of formal CPE learning programs: learning objectives, quality of CPE program, participant engagement, CPE program completion verification, CPE program measurement, participant communication and required documentation. These principles provide a quality roadmap for sponsors as they develop, deliver, measure and report CPE.

Among the significant updates, the revised Standards provide a more principles-based structure; clarify expectations for group, self-study and blended learning programs; expand participant engagement guidance across formal CPE program types; and provide additional flexibility in certain CPE credit measurement increments. The revisions are intended to support innovation while continuing to provide sponsors with a clear framework for offering programs across a variety of formats and subject areas. High-quality CPE starts with strong standards and consistent expectations, and this structure helps create consistency across the CPE marketplace while supporting continued growth and improvement.

The revised Standards are effective August 1, 2026, unless otherwise established by state licensing bodies or other professional organizations. For initial or additional delivery method applications for group programs or self study, the revised Standards will be effective August 1, 2026. For group and self study programs in development and/or being published for the first time, the revised Standards will be effective March 1, 2027. For group programs or self study programs already existing as of July 31, 2026, the changes will need to be in effect by November 1, 2028.

The Registry Team is actively working to update National Registry resources, including the website, best practice guidance and templates, to reflect the revised Standards. A dedicated transition page will soon be launched on the National Registry website to help sponsors understand key updates, implementation timing and available resources. In anticipation of the new application process opening on August 1, 2026, the National Registry will stop accepting applications for Initial Applicants and Additional Delivery Methods under the 2024 Statement on Standards on July 1, 2026. NASBA is also planning webinars to outline the revisions and answer sponsor questions, with registration information available in the coming months. NASBA appreciates the thoughtful engagement and feedback provided by stakeholders throughout this process and looks forward to continuing to support CPE program sponsors as they prepare to implement the revised Standards.