A schedule of crucial deadlines related to professional certification in accounting for the 2024-2025 period typically encompasses exam registration windows, testing dates, score release timelines, and license renewal periods. For instance, it might detail the final date to apply for the next testing window or when specific sections of the exam are offered. This structured timeline helps candidates prepare efficiently and manage their professional development.
Organized planning is essential for success in the demanding field of professional accountancy. A well-defined timeframe allows candidates to strategize their study efforts, allocate sufficient preparation time, and avoid last-minute rushes. Historically, regulatory bodies and professional organizations have provided these structured schedules to ensure transparency and facilitate the certification process for aspiring accountants. Access to this information empowers candidates to navigate the certification journey effectively and contribute to the profession’s high standards.
This article will explore exam specifics, study strategies, and licensing requirements relevant to the upcoming testing cycle. Further sections will delve into valuable resources for candidates and provide practical advice for achieving certification milestones.
1. Exam Dates
Exam dates form the cornerstone of the CPA calendar, dictating the rhythm and structure of the entire examination process. A thorough understanding of these dates is essential for effective preparation and successful completion of the CPA exam.
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Testing Windows
The CPA exam is administered within designated testing windows, typically quarterly. These windows represent specific periods during which candidates can schedule their exams. For instance, a testing window might span the first two months of a quarter. Knowing these windows is crucial for planning study schedules and coordinating with personal and professional commitments. Missing a testing window necessitates waiting for the next available period, potentially delaying the overall certification timeline.
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Scheduling Flexibility within Windows
While testing windows define broader periods, candidates usually have some flexibility in choosing specific exam dates within those windows. This allows adjustments for unforeseen circumstances or preferences for particular days of the week. However, available slots may be limited, especially during peak periods, so timely scheduling is advisable.
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Score Release Dates
Score release dates, typically following the close of a testing window, are critical milestones. Candidates eagerly await these dates to assess their performance and plan next steps. Understanding the typical timeframe for score releases allows for realistic expectations and informed decision-making regarding future exam sections.
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Relationship to Other Calendar Elements
Exam dates interrelate with other key components of the CPA calendar, such as registration deadlines and application windows. Registration deadlines usually precede the testing window, ensuring adequate time for processing. Application windows for subsequent exam sections often align with score release dates, allowing candidates to proceed seamlessly through the examination process.
Strategic alignment of study efforts with exam dates, score releases, and other calendar elements is fundamental for successful navigation of the CPA journey. A well-structured study plan that considers these interconnected components optimizes preparation and increases the likelihood of achieving certification goals.
2. Registration Deadlines
Registration deadlines represent critical junctures within the CPA exam calendar. Adherence to these deadlines is essential for securing eligibility to sit for the exam within the desired testing window. Failure to meet a deadline can result in significant delays in the overall certification timeline. Understanding the nuances of registration deadlines is paramount for effective planning and efficient progression through the CPA examination process.
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Application Deadlines vs. Exam Registration Deadlines
The CPA examination process often involves separate deadlines for submitting the initial application and registering for a specific exam section within a testing window. The application deadline, typically preceding the testing window by several weeks or months, establishes candidacy. Subsequently, exam registration deadlines, falling closer to the testing window, confirm participation in a specific exam section. Confusing these distinct deadlines can lead to missed opportunities and necessitate postponing exam attempts.
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Variability by Jurisdiction
Registration deadlines can vary by jurisdiction, reflecting specific requirements and administrative processes. Candidates must ascertain the applicable deadlines for their chosen jurisdiction to avoid potential complications. Consulting the relevant Board of Accountancy website provides accurate and up-to-date information regarding jurisdictional deadlines.
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Implications for Scheduling and Preparation
Registration deadlines influence study schedules and overall exam preparation strategies. Awareness of upcoming deadlines allows candidates to allocate sufficient study time, schedule review courses, and plan practice exams effectively. Procrastination in meeting registration deadlines can compress preparation time, potentially compromising performance.
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Financial Implications of Missed Deadlines
Missing a registration deadline often results in forfeited fees or the need to re-register for a subsequent testing window, incurring additional costs. Understanding the financial ramifications of missed deadlines underscores the importance of meticulous calendar management and adherence to established timelines.
Successful navigation of the CPA exam journey hinges on careful attention to registration deadlines. Integrating these deadlines into a comprehensive study plan and adhering to jurisdictional requirements ensures efficient progress toward certification goals and minimizes potential delays and financial repercussions. Meticulous tracking of deadlines contributes significantly to a smoother and more successful CPA examination experience.
3. Score Release Timelines
Score release timelines represent a critical component of the CPA exam calendar (2024-25), significantly influencing candidate preparation strategies and overall success. Understanding these timelines allows for realistic expectation management, informed decision-making, and efficient progression through the examination process. A clear grasp of score release patterns empowers candidates to optimize their study efforts and navigate the certification journey effectively.
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Predictability and Planning
Consistent score release timelines enable candidates to predict when to expect results, facilitating proactive planning for subsequent exam sections. This predictability allows for structured study schedules, timely registration for future exams, and efficient allocation of resources. For instance, knowing scores will be released within a specific window following a testing period allows candidates to schedule review courses or plan for additional study time accordingly.
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Impact on Subsequent Exam Strategies
Score release timelines directly impact strategic decisions regarding future exam attempts. Successful completion of one section often dictates the order in which subsequent sections are taken. Awaiting score releases can influence the timing of subsequent registrations and the overall pace of the certification process. Candidates may choose to delay subsequent attempts pending results or accelerate their studies based on successful performance.
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Psychological Impact and Motivation
The anticipation surrounding score releases can significantly impact candidate morale and motivation. Understanding the expected timeframe helps manage anxiety and maintain focus throughout the examination process. Realistic expectations regarding score release timelines contribute to a more positive and productive study environment.
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Integration with Other Calendar Elements
Score release timelines intertwine with other crucial elements of the CPA calendar, such as registration deadlines and testing window availability. Awareness of these interconnected components allows for a holistic approach to exam preparation and efficient navigation of the certification process. For instance, anticipating score releases in relation to upcoming registration deadlines allows candidates to prepare for subsequent exam sections seamlessly.
Effective integration of score release timelines into a comprehensive study plan is essential for CPA exam success. Understanding these timelines in the context of the overall 2024-25 CPA calendar empowers candidates to optimize their preparation, manage expectations, and navigate the certification journey strategically. A clear grasp of score release patterns contributes significantly to a more efficient and successful CPA examination experience.
4. Testing Window Availability
Testing window availability forms a cornerstone of the CPA exam calendar (2024-25), directly influencing candidate preparation strategies and overall success. Strategic alignment with available testing windows is essential for efficient progression through the examination process. Understanding the nuances of testing window availability empowers candidates to optimize study efforts and navigate the certification journey effectively.
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Frequency and Duration
Testing windows typically occur on a recurring basis, often quarterly, providing multiple opportunities throughout the year for candidates to sit for the exam. Each window spans a specific timeframe, allowing flexibility in scheduling within that period. For instance, a window might encompass a two-month period within a quarter, offering various available dates for examination. Knowledge of the frequency and duration of testing windows is crucial for long-term planning and integration with personal and professional commitments.
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Impact on Study Planning
Available testing windows dictate the structure of study plans, influencing the intensity and duration of preparation efforts. Candidates align their study schedules with the target testing window, ensuring adequate time for content review, practice exams, and final preparations. Choosing a specific window necessitates a structured study approach leading up to the chosen timeframe.
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Navigating Blackout Periods and Continuous Testing
Certain periods within the calendar year may experience blackout periods, during which testing is unavailable. These periods are often associated with administrative tasks or holidays. Continuous testing, where applicable, provides increased flexibility outside of traditional testing windows, allowing candidates to schedule exams at their convenience, subject to availability. Understanding the interplay between blackout periods and continuous testing options enables effective scheduling and minimizes disruptions to study plans.
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Jurisdictional Variations
While general patterns exist, specific testing window availability may vary across jurisdictions. Candidates must consult the relevant Board of Accountancy for their specific jurisdiction to confirm applicable testing windows and any jurisdictional nuances. This ensures accurate planning and avoids potential conflicts with regional requirements.
Strategic alignment with testing window availability is crucial for CPA exam success. Integrating these windows into a comprehensive study plan and considering jurisdictional variations ensures efficient progression through the certification process. A clear understanding of testing window availability within the broader context of the 2024-25 CPA calendar empowers candidates to optimize their preparation and navigate the examination journey effectively. This knowledge facilitates a structured approach to studying, informed decision-making, and increased likelihood of achieving certification goals.
5. Continuous Testing Availability
Continuous testing availability significantly impacts the strategic planning process for the CPA exam, offering increased flexibility within the framework of the 2024-25 CPA calendar. Unlike traditional testing windows with fixed start and end dates, continuous testing allows candidates to schedule exams at their convenience throughout most of the year. This availability presents both advantages and considerations that candidates must carefully evaluate to optimize their exam preparation and overall success.
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Flexibility and Adaptability
Continuous testing provides candidates with the flexibility to adapt their study schedules and exam dates based on individual circumstances. Life events, work commitments, or unexpected delays no longer necessarily dictate adherence to rigid testing windows. This adaptability reduces stress and allows for a more personalized approach to exam preparation, accommodating individual learning styles and paces. For example, a candidate facing a demanding work project can postpone an exam without waiting for the next traditional testing window.
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Potential for Accelerated Completion
The continuous availability of testing can facilitate a faster progression through the exam sections. Candidates who perform well on one section can immediately schedule the next, maintaining momentum and potentially completing the entire exam in a shorter timeframe. This accelerated approach can be particularly advantageous for those seeking to meet specific career milestones or employer requirements.
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Strategic Planning Considerations
While offering flexibility, continuous testing also requires strategic planning. Candidates must establish realistic study schedules and avoid procrastination, as the ongoing availability of exam dates can sometimes lead to complacency. Careful self-assessment and disciplined time management are crucial for success in a continuous testing environment. Without a structured approach, candidates might find themselves perpetually delaying exams or inadequately prepared.
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Integration with Other Calendar Elements
Continuous testing availability must be considered within the broader context of the 2024-25 CPA calendar. While offering flexibility in scheduling, candidates still need to account for score release timelines, application deadlines, and other jurisdictional requirements. For example, while an exam can be scheduled quickly after completing a previous section, subsequent exam registrations might still depend on receiving prior scores and meeting application deadlines.
Continuous testing availability significantly alters the landscape of the 2024-25 CPA exam calendar. By understanding the implications of this flexible testing model, candidates can leverage its advantages while mitigating potential drawbacks. Strategic integration of continuous testing within a comprehensive study plan, considering individual circumstances and other calendar elements, empowers candidates to navigate the CPA journey effectively and optimize their chances of success.
6. Application Windows
Application windows represent crucial timeframes within the 2024-25 CPA calendar, governing the initial entry point into the examination process. These designated periods dictate when candidates can submit their applications to become eligible for the CPA exam. Understanding application windows and their implications is essential for initiating the certification journey effectively and avoiding potential delays.
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Timing and Duration
Application windows typically occur on a recurring schedule, often aligning with testing window cycles. Each window spans a specific period, ranging from several weeks to a few months, providing ample opportunity for candidates to submit required documentation. Specific opening and closing dates for each window are crucial for timely application submission. Missing a deadline necessitates waiting for the subsequent application period, potentially delaying the start of the examination process.
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Jurisdictional Variations
Application window specifics can vary significantly across jurisdictions, reflecting differing regulatory requirements and administrative processes. Candidates must consult the relevant Board of Accountancy for their specific location to determine applicable windows and any jurisdiction-specific nuances. Overlooking jurisdictional variations can lead to missed deadlines and unnecessary delays in the application process.
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Relationship to Other Calendar Elements
Application windows interrelate with other critical components of the 2024-25 CPA calendar, such as testing window availability and score release timelines. A successful application within a specific window often determines eligibility to register for exams within a corresponding testing window. Understanding the relationship between application periods and subsequent testing opportunities allows for strategic planning and efficient progression through the examination process. For instance, a candidate aiming for a particular testing window needs to ensure timely application submission within the preceding application window.
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Required Documentation and Procedures
Application windows necessitate the compilation and submission of various documents, including transcripts, educational verification, and any required fees. Specific requirements can vary by jurisdiction. Candidates must familiarize themselves with the necessary documentation and procedures well in advance of the application window to ensure a smooth and timely submission. Failure to provide required documentation within the specified timeframe can lead to application rejection and further delays.
Successful navigation of the CPA journey begins with adherence to application window deadlines. Understanding these windows within the context of the 2024-25 CPA calendar and ensuring compliance with jurisdictional requirements allows candidates to initiate the certification process effectively. Meticulous planning and timely application submission contribute significantly to a streamlined and efficient CPA examination experience.
7. License Renewal Deadlines
License renewal deadlines represent a crucial aspect of maintaining active CPA status and are integral to the 2024-25 CPA calendar. These deadlines, established by respective state Boards of Accountancy, dictate the timeframe within which CPAs must complete continuing professional education (CPE) requirements and remit renewal fees. Failure to meet these deadlines can result in license inactivation, precluding practice and necessitating reinstatement procedures. For example, a CPA licensed in a state requiring renewal by December 31, 2024, must fulfill all CPE requirements and submit the renewal application and associated fees before this date. Missing this deadline could lead to license lapse and potential disciplinary action.
The integration of license renewal deadlines within the CPA calendar underscores the ongoing nature of professional development within the accounting field. Maintaining an active license requires continuous learning and adherence to regulatory standards. This ensures practitioners remain current with evolving accounting practices, ethical considerations, and regulatory updates. The calendar serves as a critical reminder of these obligations, facilitating timely compliance and upholding the profession’s integrity. For instance, awareness of upcoming CPE reporting periods within the calendar prompts CPAs to plan and complete relevant courses, ensuring compliance with renewal requirements. This proactive approach avoids last-minute scrambling and potential penalties associated with missed deadlines.
Understanding license renewal deadlines within the context of the 2024-25 CPA calendar is essential for uninterrupted practice and professional standing. Integrating these deadlines into professional development plans and adhering to jurisdictional requirements safeguards licensure status and demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional competence. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of license lapse, ensures compliance with regulatory mandates, and reinforces the credibility of the CPA designation.
8. Notice of Intent (NOI) Filing
Notice of Intent (NOI) filing represents a critical procedural step within the CPA examination process, directly impacting a candidate’s ability to schedule and sit for exam sections. Its strategic placement within the 2024-25 CPA calendar underscores its importance in coordinating examination efforts and ensuring timely progression toward licensure. The NOI effectively signals a candidate’s intention to take a specific section of the CPA exam within a designated testing window. Failure to file the NOI within the prescribed timeframe can preclude exam registration and delay the overall certification timeline. For example, a candidate intending to sit for the Auditing and Attestation (AUD) section during the Q1 2025 testing window must file the NOI within the designated period preceding that window, often several weeks in advance. Neglecting this step could prevent registration for the AUD section during the intended timeframe, necessitating a postponement to a later window.
The NOI filing period typically precedes the exam registration window, allowing sufficient time for administrative processing and candidate verification. This structured approach facilitates efficient management of the examination process, ensuring candidates meet prerequisite steps before attempting specific sections. Understanding the relationship between NOI filing deadlines and subsequent registration periods is essential for effective planning. For instance, if the NOI deadline for a particular testing window falls on November 15th and the registration window opens on December 1st, candidates must complete the NOI process by November 15th to secure eligibility for registration within the December 1st window. This interdependency underscores the practical significance of integrating NOI deadlines into the overall CPA exam preparation strategy.
Strategic alignment of NOI filing with other key dates within the 2024-25 CPA calendar, such as application windows, score release timelines, and testing window availability, optimizes the examination process. Integrating these interconnected components into a comprehensive study plan enhances efficiency, mitigates potential delays, and increases the likelihood of achieving certification milestones. Recognizing the importance of NOI filing as a foundational element within the broader CPA calendar empowers candidates to navigate the certification journey effectively and contribute to a smoother, more successful examination experience.
9. Ethics Exam Requirements
Ethics exam requirements represent an integral component of the 2024-25 CPA calendar, underscoring the profession’s commitment to ethical conduct and professional responsibility. These requirements, often mandated by state Boards of Accountancy, typically involve completing a specific ethics examination, sometimes distinct from the core CPA exam sections. Successful completion of the ethics exam is often a prerequisite for licensure, ensuring candidates possess a foundational understanding of ethical principles and professional standards before entering practice. For instance, a jurisdiction might require candidates to pass the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Professional Ethics exam before issuing a CPA license, even if all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination have been passed. This emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct as a cornerstone of professional practice.
The timing of the ethics exam within the 2024-25 CPA calendar varies by jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions mandate completion before sitting for the CPA exam, while others allow completion after passing the core exam sections but before licensure. This variation necessitates careful planning and adherence to jurisdictional guidelines. Furthermore, some jurisdictions impose specific time limits within which the ethics exam must be passed following completion of the CPA exam, potentially impacting overall licensure timelines. For example, if a jurisdiction mandates ethics exam completion within one year of passing the CPA exam, candidates must factor this requirement into their study and examination schedules. Failure to meet this deadline could necessitate retaking the ethics exam or potentially affect eligibility for licensure.
Integrating ethics exam requirements into the broader 2024-25 CPA calendar emphasizes the profession’s focus on integrity and ethical conduct. Understanding jurisdictional requirements, exam timelines, and the interplay with other calendar components, such as exam registrations and license renewals, is crucial for successful navigation of the CPA journey. This comprehensive approach ensures candidates meet all ethical and professional obligations, upholding the high standards of the accounting profession and promoting public trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the 2024-25 CPA exam calendar. Clarity regarding these frequently asked questions facilitates effective planning and a smoother examination experience.
Question 1: Where can one find the official 2024-25 CPA exam schedule?
Official schedules are published by the respective jurisdictional Boards of Accountancy. The NASBA website also provides helpful resources and links to individual boards.
Question 2: How frequently are testing windows offered throughout the calendar year?
Testing windows are typically offered quarterly, though specific dates and durations vary by jurisdiction. Continuous testing may also be available in some jurisdictions, providing increased flexibility in scheduling.
Question 3: What are the implications of missing a registration deadline?
Missing a registration deadline typically prevents participation in the intended testing window. This necessitates waiting for the next available window and may impact overall certification timelines. Additional fees might also apply.
Question 4: How are score release dates determined and communicated?
Score release dates are generally predetermined and published by the respective Boards of Accountancy. Notifications are often communicated through email or candidate portals.
Question 5: How do continuous testing windows differ from traditional testing windows?
Continuous testing offers greater scheduling flexibility, allowing candidates to select exam dates within a broader timeframe, often outside of traditional quarterly windows. However, continuous testing may not be available in all jurisdictions or for all exam sections.
Question 6: How does one determine application and Notice of Intent (NOI) deadlines for a specific jurisdiction?
Candidates should consult the specific Board of Accountancy website for their jurisdiction to determine precise application and NOI deadlines. These deadlines are crucial for initiating the examination process and securing eligibility to sit for specific exam sections.
Meticulous calendar management and proactive planning based on official information are essential for navigating the CPA examination process successfully. Clarification of any remaining questions with the appropriate Board of Accountancy is highly recommended.
The next section offers valuable resources and tools to assist candidates in preparing for the 2024-25 CPA exam.
Tips for Utilizing the 2024-25 CPA Exam Calendar
Strategic use of the CPA exam calendar is essential for maximizing study efforts and achieving exam success. These tips provide practical guidance for leveraging the calendar effectively.
Tip 1: Proactive Planning: Begin by obtaining the official CPA exam calendar for the relevant jurisdiction. Early access allows for comprehensive planning and integration with personal and professional commitments. For example, scheduling study time around major life events or work deadlines prevents conflicts and ensures dedicated preparation time.
Tip 2: Deadline Prioritization: Mark all critical deadlines, including application windows, Notice of Intent (NOI) deadlines, and registration deadlines, on a personal calendar. Setting reminders ensures timely completion of required steps, avoiding potential delays and financial penalties.
Tip 3: Strategic Score Release Integration: Factor score release timelines into study planning. Knowing when to expect scores allows for informed decision-making regarding subsequent exam sections, facilitating a structured and efficient approach to the examination process.
Tip 4: Testing Window Optimization: Carefully consider testing window availability and select windows that align with personal study preferences and peak performance periods. This strategic selection optimizes focus and minimizes disruptions during crucial preparation phases.
Tip 5: Continuous Testing Considerations: If available, evaluate the benefits of continuous testing against the need for structured study schedules. While continuous testing offers flexibility, maintaining disciplined study habits is crucial for avoiding procrastination and ensuring adequate preparation.
Tip 6: Jurisdictional Awareness: Confirm all calendar elements, including deadlines and testing window availability, with the specific Board of Accountancy for the relevant jurisdiction. Jurisdictional variations exist and adhering to specific requirements is essential for avoiding complications.
Tip 7: Resource Integration: Utilize available resources, such as exam review courses and study materials, in conjunction with the CPA exam calendar. Aligning study plans with available resources and calendar deadlines maximizes preparation effectiveness.
Tip 8: Regular Calendar Review: Regularly review and update the calendar to reflect progress, adjust study plans as needed, and incorporate new information. This ongoing review process ensures consistent alignment between study efforts and examination requirements.
Adherence to these tips promotes efficient time management, reduces stress, and increases the likelihood of success in the CPA examination process. A well-structured approach to calendar management empowers candidates to navigate the certification journey strategically.
The following conclusion summarizes key takeaways and offers final recommendations for CPA exam candidates.
Conclusion
Successful navigation of the CPA examination process hinges on strategic planning and meticulous calendar management. Understanding key dates, deadlines, and scheduling nuances associated with the 2024-25 examination cycle is paramount. This includes awareness of application windows, Notice of Intent (NOI) filing periods, registration deadlines, testing window availability, score release timelines, continuous testing options, license renewal requirements, and ethics exam mandates. Integrating these elements into a comprehensive study plan optimizes preparation efforts and increases the likelihood of achieving certification milestones. Furthermore, recognizing jurisdictional variations and consulting official resources from respective Boards of Accountancy ensures adherence to specific requirements and mitigates potential delays or complications.
The CPA designation signifies a commitment to professional excellence and ethical conduct. Strategic engagement with the 2024-25 CPA calendar demonstrates proactive preparation and dedication to upholding the high standards of the accounting profession. This diligent approach empowers candidates to embark on the certification journey with confidence, contributing to both individual success and the overall integrity of the field.
