ARC will begin using a new CAS test effective with all testing on or after May 5, 2003.  The new test covers the same subjects as prior versions of the test, however the percentages for each subject have been revised as recommended by the last CAS Subject Matter Expert panel.  Please see Document 20 - CAS Candidate Information, which explains the new percentages.  There is also a new Question Pool available for the new test.  CAS candidates who are planning on testing on/after the May 5th date will need the new set of questions for study purposes.  The new Question Pool, Document 26, becomes effective on May 1, 2003.  The old question pool will remain in effect until April 30, 2003.

The Question Pool now has fewer questions - the new set of questions is now less than 600.  A Self Test has been added at the end to help candidates determine their progress in studying the question pool.  Along with the new question pool is a new Study Guide, which can be ordered using Document 29.  This document can also be used to order a paper copy of the Question Pool.

As part of the roll-out of the new test, there will be a 2-week blackout period for testing at Prometric (formerly Sylvan) test centers.  The blackout period will be effective from April 21, 2003 through May 4, 2003.  Candidates who are currently scheduled to take the CAS exam during those dates are urged to contact Prometric directly to reschedule their tests.  ARC will contact all known candidates with tests scheduled during the blackout period to ensure that the rescheduling takes place within Prometric's guidelines.