cpacoursetips

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What is the pass rate for Becker audit?

Becker is a popular CPA review course provider, and they may provide pass rate statistics for their students on their official website or through their customer support. It's a good idea to check directly with Becker or consult their resources for the most accurate and up-to-date pass rate information for the Audit section of the CPA exam.

Additionally, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), which administers the CPA exam, periodically releases pass rate statistics for each section of the exam. You can refer to the AICPA's official website or other reliable sources for these pass rate statistics.

Remember that pass rates can vary over time, so it's important to focus on thorough exam preparation rather than solely relying on pass rate information when determining your approach to studying for the CPA exam.

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Which CPA exam is easiest?

Passing the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam is a significant milestone for accounting professionals. It’s a rigorous four-part examination designed to ensure that candidates possess the knowledge and skills necessary to practice as licensed CPAs. The four sections of the CPA exam are:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD)

Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)

Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)

Regulation (REG)

Each section presents its own set of challenges. But if you've been researching or talking to CPA candidates, you've probably heard that the BEC section is often considered the “easiest” of the four. But what does “easiest” really mean in this context, and is it accurate for everyone?

Let’s take a closer look at the BEC section and explore why many candidates find it more manageable.

Understanding the BEC Section

Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) covers a broad spectrum of topics relevant to business operations and the economic factors that influence organizations. The exam content is divided into five core areas:

Corporate Governance

Economic Concepts and Analysis

Financial Management

Information Technology

Operations Management

In essence, BEC brings together theoretical business knowledge with real-world application. While that might sound intimidating, it actually plays to the strengths of many candidates, especially those with business degrees or work experience in a corporate setting.

Why BEC Is Often Considered Easier

1. Broader but Shallower Scope

One of the main reasons candidates perceive BEC as easier is its breadth. BEC touches on many topics but doesn’t delve as deeply into any one of them as the other sections do. For instance, while FAR requires intense memorization and technical application of accounting standards, BEC is more about understanding concepts than mastering complex detail.

This can make it easier for candidates to prepare for and feel confident during the exam, especially if they already have exposure to business strategy, finance, or economics.

2. Written Communication Component

BEC is unique among the four CPA exam sections in that it includes a written communication task, which accounts for 15% of the total score. Candidates are asked to compose memo-style responses to business-related scenarios.

For many test-takers, this is a welcome break from calculations and technical problem-solving. Strong writing skills can give candidates a significant boost, as this section evaluates organization, clarity, and relevance rather than technical precision.

3. Fewer Task-Based Simulations

In contrast to FAR, AUD, and REG—which include task-based simulations (TBS) that require candidates to apply their knowledge in detailed scenarios—BEC only includes three TBS questions, in addition to its multiple-choice and written sections.

TBS are often the most time-consuming and difficult part of the CPA exam. The relatively lighter emphasis on simulations in BEC contributes to its reputation as the most approachable section.

4. Familiarity with Concepts

Candidates who come from a business background—especially those who have studied finance, management, or economics—often find BEC more intuitive. Topics like cost behavior, budgeting, risk management, and corporate governance are standard fare in business programs and professional experience.

This familiarity can reduce the amount of new material that needs to be learned, making exam prep feel less overwhelming.

Is BEC Actually Easier?

While BEC may be widely regarded as the most manageable section, that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Every CPA exam section is challenging in its own way, and BEC is no exception. In fact, some candidates may find the diversity of topics in BEC to be a disadvantage, especially if they struggle to switch gears between concepts like IT governance and economic fluctuations.

It’s also worth noting that the CPA exam is adaptive. That means if you’re doing well on the multiple-choice questions, you’ll start getting more difficult ones. This applies to BEC too. So while it may start out feeling straightforward, the difficulty can ramp up quickly.

Moreover, some candidates find the written communication portion intimidating. If you’re not confident in your writing skills or struggle to structure professional communication clearly and concisely, this section can be tricky.

How BEC Compares to Other Sections

Let’s briefly compare BEC to the other three CPA exam sections to provide more context:

FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting)

Often considered the hardest section, FAR is deeply technical and packed with content. It covers topics like GAAP, governmental accounting, and financial statement preparation. The amount of material and the level of detail required make it the most dreaded section for many candidates.

AUD (Auditing and Attestation)

AUD is challenging because it requires a solid understanding of auditing procedures, ethics, and internal controls. While it’s not as calculation-heavy as FAR or REG, it demands strong analytical thinking and familiarity with real-world auditing scenarios.

REG (Regulation)

REG focuses on tax laws, ethics, and business law. For those without tax experience, REG can be daunting. It’s also constantly changing, which adds a layer of difficulty when it comes to staying up to date.

Compared to these, BEC stands out for its relatively less intense calculations, manageable scope, and the inclusion of writing—something many candidates find easier than simulations.

Final Thoughts: Which Section Should You Take First?

Many candidates choose to start with BEC if they want a “confidence booster.” A successful first attempt can build momentum for the more challenging sections. On the flip side, some prefer to save BEC for later, using it as a "break" between more difficult exams.

There’s no one-size-fits-all strategy, but here are some guiding thoughts:

Start with BEC if you’re confident in business concepts and want a smoother entry into the CPA exam.

Save BEC for last if you want something more approachable after tackling heavier sections like FAR or REG.

Don’t underestimate it—just because BEC has a reputation for being easier doesn’t mean it should be taken lightly.

Conclusion

So, is BEC the easiest CPA exam section? For many, the answer is yes—but it depends on your background, strengths, and learning style. Its broad, concept-based content, lighter use of simulations, and inclusion of a writing task make it less intimidating for some. However, every section of the CPA exam requires discipline, preparation, and strategy.

Approach each section with respect, build a smart study plan, and leverage your strengths. Whether you find BEC easy or challenging, it’s one important step on the path to becoming a licensed CPA.

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For aspiring CPAs, the CPA exam is one of the most significant hurdles in their career journey. It’s rigorous, comprehensive, and time-consuming. The exam is divided into four sections:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD)

Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)

Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)

Regulation (REG)

Each section challenges candidates in different ways—some are more technical, others more conceptual. Naturally, one of the most common questions asked by future CPAs is:

“Which section is the easiest to pass?”

While the answer varies depending on individual strengths and backgrounds, Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) is consistently seen as the most approachable section. But what exactly makes BEC easier for so many candidates? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Candidates Consider BEC the Easiest Section

1. Shorter Depth of Content

BEC stands out because, although it covers a wide range of topics, it does not dive too deeply into any one area. You’ll find subjects like:

Corporate governance

Economic concepts

Financial management

IT systems

Strategic planning

This broad overview format means candidates don’t have to master one extremely technical area in great depth, unlike FAR or REG. While there’s still a lot of material, it often requires a high-level understanding rather than deep, granular knowledge. For many, this makes studying feel more manageable.

2. Absence of Task-Based Simulations

One of the key factors that makes BEC feel easier is the absence of intensive task-based simulations (TBS). While BEC does include three TBS, it does not emphasize them to the same extent as FAR, AUD, or REG. In those sections, TBS are a major portion of the exam and can be mentally draining. They require detailed calculations, interpretation of large sets of data, or the application of complex rules in simulated scenarios.

By contrast, BEC’s simulations are often more straightforward, which makes test-day performance less stressful for many candidates.

3. Familiar Managerial and Economic Topics

If you’ve studied business, economics, or finance—or have experience working in a corporate environment—you’re likely to find BEC content more intuitive. It includes familiar areas like:

Budgeting and forecasting

Cost behavior and variance analysis

Time value of money

Supply and demand fundamentals

This familiarity gives some candidates a significant head start. Instead of learning unfamiliar legal codes or dense accounting regulations from scratch, you're reviewing and applying concepts that may already be part of your everyday professional vocabulary.

4. Written Communication Task

The BEC section is the only part of the CPA exam that includes a written communication task. This section evaluates your ability to compose well-structured, business-style responses to workplace scenarios.

For those who feel confident writing in a professional tone, this is an advantage. It requires clarity, grammar, organization, and relevance—not necessarily technical accounting expertise. Unlike simulations that might demand long calculations or complex analysis, written communication tests your ability to communicate ideas effectively—something many candidates are comfortable with.

5. Relatability to Real-World Business

BEC may also feel more grounded in real-world business practices compared to the often abstract nature of audit procedures or tax codes. Topics like risk management, corporate governance, and IT system controls are not only exam material—they’re key parts of many business operations.

This practical nature of the content makes BEC more engaging and digestible for those who thrive on understanding how things work in an organizational context.

Exam Statistics and Perception

While every section of the CPA exam is challenging, BEC often has one of the higher pass rates. In recent years, pass rates for BEC have hovered around 60%, sometimes slightly higher—compared to the lower rates for FAR and AUD.

This data seems to back up the perception that BEC is more accessible. However, it’s important not to take these numbers at face value. Higher pass rates don’t mean the section is "easy"—just that, on average, more people are better prepared or find the material less intimidating.

Is BEC Easy for Everyone?

Let’s be clear: No section of the CPA exam is objectively easy. What’s manageable for one person could be a nightmare for someone else.

Some candidates may struggle with the wide variety of topics in BEC. It demands you to pivot quickly between economics, IT, management accounting, and writing skills. For someone without a business or economics background, this section may feel fragmented or unfamiliar.

Others may find the writing portion more difficult. If you’re not used to composing business memos under time constraints, or if English isn’t your first language, the written communication task might present unique challenges.

The key is recognizing where your strengths lie and preparing accordingly.

How to Approach BEC for Success

If you’re gearing up to take the BEC section, here are a few tips to make the most of your preparation:

Don’t underestimate it – Just because BEC is widely seen as “easier” doesn’t mean it requires less study. Give it the attention it deserves.

Practice writing – Familiarize yourself with the format and expectations of the written communication section. Use practice questions to improve clarity and structure.

Focus on understanding concepts – Memorization isn’t as helpful in BEC. Understanding how and why things work (like cost behavior or risk mitigation) will be much more valuable.

Use a review course – Quality CPA prep programs break down the material into digestible chunks and offer practice questions that simulate the real exam experience.

Stay current – BEC topics can evolve, especially in areas like IT and corporate governance. Make sure you’re using the most up-to-date materials.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the easiest CPA exam to pass?

Most candidates would say BEC, but the real answer is: it depends on you. If you have a business background, strong writing skills, and an interest in how organizations function, you may indeed find BEC to be the most approachable of the four sections.

That said, “easiest” doesn’t mean easy. All four parts of the CPA exam require preparation, strategy, and determination. What’s important is not finding the easiest section—but understanding your own strengths and tailoring your study plan to match.

Whether you start with BEC for a confidence boost or save it for last to finish strong, approach it with the same mindset you’d apply to any major exam: consistent study, thoughtful review, and a clear understanding of what’s expected.

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What is the hardest CPA module?

Preparing for the CPA course is no small feat. It’s a four-part examination that tests candidates on a broad spectrum of knowledge areas essential for the accounting profession. The four sections are:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD)

Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)

Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)

Regulation (REG)

Each section presents unique challenges, but if there’s one module that consistently earns the title of “the hardest”, it’s Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR).

So, what makes FAR so difficult—and is it truly the most challenging for everyone? Let’s explore the factors that contribute to its intimidating reputation and how candidates can navigate it successfully.

Why FAR Is Considered the Hardest CPA Module

1. Massive Scope of Content

One of the main reasons FAR is regarded as the most difficult module is the sheer volume of material it covers. The FAR section includes topics such as:

Financial statements and reporting

U.S. GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)

IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards)

Business combinations and consolidations

Governmental and nonprofit accounting

Leases, pensions, bonds, and more

This breadth can be overwhelming for candidates, especially those without a strong academic foundation in advanced accounting principles. Unlike other sections that hone in on specific areas (e.g., taxes in REG or auditing in AUD), FAR covers the full landscape of financial accounting.

2. Complex and Evolving Accounting Standards

In FAR, candidates are expected not only to memorize accounting rules but also to understand and apply them to real-world scenarios. These standards, especially under U.S. GAAP, can be extremely detailed and technical.

To add to the challenge, accounting standards are not static—they evolve frequently. New pronouncements from the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) or changes in IFRS can appear in updated exam materials. Staying current with these changes adds another layer of difficulty to FAR preparation.

For example, recent updates to lease accounting and revenue recognition standards have required candidates to re-learn major components of the exam.

3. Heavy Emphasis on Calculations and Journal Entries

While all CPA exam sections involve some level of computation, FAR is particularly calculation-intensive. Candidates are often tested on topics such as:

Depreciation and amortization

Bond premiums and discounts

Pensions and post-retirement benefits

Inventory methods (LIFO, FIFO, weighted average)

Consolidation eliminations

Lease calculations

In addition to solving these, you must know how to journalize transactions and ensure they comply with the relevant reporting framework. This demands a mix of numerical accuracy and accounting logic—one small mistake in a calculation or journal entry can throw off the entire question.

4. Conceptual Depth and Critical Thinking

Beyond math and memorization, FAR requires candidates to understand complex accounting concepts and how they interconnect. You’re not just filling out balance sheets—you’re interpreting financial statements, analyzing transactions, and understanding how each element affects overall financial reporting.

FAR often includes task-based simulations (TBS) that present real-world financial scenarios. These require not just number-crunching, but also interpretation, analysis, and strategic thinking. Questions may ask you to prepare parts of financial statements based on incomplete data or make corrections to journal entries under changing scenarios.

This makes FAR mentally exhausting—especially under time constraints.

5. Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting

One area that catches many candidates off guard is governmental and nonprofit accounting. These topics are not heavily emphasized in many undergraduate accounting programs, which means candidates often face a steep learning curve when preparing for these segments.

Governmental accounting introduces concepts like:

Fund accounting

Modified accrual basis

Encumbrances

Government-wide vs. fund financial statements

These concepts differ greatly from standard for-profit accounting, requiring additional time and attention to master.

6. Time-Intensive Preparation

Due to the breadth and complexity of the material, FAR typically requires the most study hours of all CPA exam sections. Many candidates report spending 100 to 150+ hours preparing for FAR alone.

Balancing that level of study with work, family, or other responsibilities can be a significant challenge. It often feels like preparing for multiple mini-exams wrapped into one.

How FAR Compares to the Other Sections

To understand FAR’s difficulty better, it helps to briefly compare it with the other three CPA sections:

AUD focuses on audit procedures, risk assessment, and ethics. It requires analytical thinking but isn’t as math-heavy.

BEC includes business concepts, IT, and communication skills. It’s generally considered the most approachable and features a written component instead of extensive simulations.

REG centers on taxation and business law. While it demands memorization and legal comprehension, its scope is narrower than FAR’s.

Compared to all of these, FAR stands out for its volume, complexity, and the variety of accounting rules it tests.

Tips to Conquer FAR

Yes, FAR is tough—but it’s not unbeatable. Here are a few strategies to make your journey smoother:

1. Start Early and Plan Well

Give yourself enough time to cover all the content. Break it into manageable sections and follow a realistic schedule.

2. Master the Fundamentals

Strong foundations in basic financial accounting are critical. Don’t skip over topics you think you know—review everything.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

Use multiple-choice questions and simulations from reputable review providers. Repetition helps reinforce concepts and boost confidence.

4. Focus on Weak Areas

Governmental and nonprofit accounting can be unfamiliar. Spend extra time here if you’re less confident.

5. Simulate Exam Conditions

Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions to build stamina and identify pacing issues.

6. Stay Updated

Use the most recent study materials to account for new or updated accounting standards that could appear on the exam.

Final Thoughts

So, what is the hardest CPA module? For most candidates, the answer is Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)—and it’s not hard to see why. With its immense scope, deep conceptual requirements, and rigorous technical demands, FAR often feels like the Everest of the CPA exam.

But remember, difficult doesn’t mean impossible. Thousands of candidates pass FAR every year. With the right mindset, materials, and commitment, you can too.

If you’re just starting your CPA journey, consider tackling FAR early while your university coursework is still fresh. Others prefer saving it for when they have a better grasp of the CPA exam’s format. Either approach can work—what matters most is preparation.

You’ve already made it this far. With patience and persistence, you can conquer FAR—and every other module standing between you and your CPA license.

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How to complete CPA?

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a milestone achievement in the field of accounting and finance. It’s a professional credential that opens doors to countless opportunities—whether you’re aiming to work for a public accounting firm, rise through the ranks of corporate finance, or even launch your own practice.

But the road to earning your CPA license isn’t easy. It involves a combination of education, exam preparation, testing, and work experience. This article will walk you through each step in the process so you know exactly how to complete the bachelor's degree of CPA course and earn the title.

Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements

Start With a Bachelor's Degree

The first step toward becoming a CPA is completing a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field from an accredited college or university. Most CPA candidates major in accounting, but degrees in finance or business administration can also suffice—as long as you complete the required accounting coursework.

Credit Hour Requirements

Most states require candidates to complete 150 semester credit hours of education to be eligible for licensure. Since a standard bachelor’s degree typically includes 120 credits, you’ll need an additional 30 credits, which can be earned through:

A master’s degree in accounting or taxation

Additional undergraduate coursework

Online or in-person continuing education programs

It’s important to check the specific educational requirements in your state, as these vary across jurisdictions. Some states also require a certain number of hours in accounting subjects (e.g., auditing, financial accounting, managerial accounting) and business-related courses (e.g., business law, finance, economics).

Step 2: Choose a CPA Review Course and Start Preparing

Why You Need a CPA Review Course

Even if you were a top student, passing the CPA exam is a serious undertaking. The exam is known for its difficulty, and the pass rates typically hover around 50% per section. That’s why most candidates use CPA review courses, which are specifically designed to help you understand the material and pass the exam.

Popular providers include Becker, Wiley, Gleim, Surgent, and Roger CPA Review. These programs offer:

Video lectures

Textbooks and eBooks

Practice questions and simulations

Performance tracking

Mock exams

Create a Study Plan

Studying without a plan is a recipe for burnout. A solid study schedule will keep you on track and reduce anxiety. Here's how to build one:

Determine how many hours per week you can realistically study

Set a goal for when you want to complete each section

Break down content into weekly topics

Schedule regular review and practice exam sessions

Most candidates spend between 300 to 400 hours in total preparing for all four CPA exam sections.

Step 3: Apply and Register for the CPA Exam

Submit Your Application

Once you’ve met your state’s educational requirements, you can apply for the CPA exam through your State Board of Accountancy. This typically involves:

Submitting academic transcripts

Verifying your eligibility

Paying an application fee

Once approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) or Notice to Schedule (NTS). This document allows you to schedule your exam through Prometric, the official testing provider.

Understand the Exam Format

The CPA exam consists of four sections, each covering a different area of accounting:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD) – Covers auditing procedures, ethics, and internal controls.

Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) – Focuses on business concepts, economics, IT, and written communication.

Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) – Covers GAAP, financial statements, and governmental/nonprofit accounting.

Regulation (REG) – Focuses on taxation, business law, and professional ethics.

Each section is four hours long and includes:

Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

Task-based simulations (TBS)

A written communication task (BEC only)

You must pass all four sections within an 18-month rolling window. If you don’t pass within that time frame, the oldest passed section expires, and you’ll need to retake it.

Step 4: Take and Pass the CPA Exam

This is the most critical—and often the most stressful—part of your CPA journey. Here’s how to give yourself the best chance at success:

Stick to Your Study Plan

Avoid cramming or skipping around randomly. Following your plan keeps you accountable and ensures thorough coverage of the material.

Simulate Exam Conditions

Take practice exams under timed conditions to build your test-taking stamina. This also helps you get comfortable with the exam format and software.

Take Care of Yourself

Don’t neglect your physical and mental health. Regular breaks, exercise, sleep, and a balanced diet can do wonders for your focus and memory.

Stay Confident

Yes, the CPA exam is tough—but so are you. Trust the work you've put in and try to stay calm during the test. If you don’t pass a section on the first try, don’t get discouraged. Many successful CPAs had to retake one or more sections.

Step 5: Gain Required Work Experience

Passing the CPA exam is only part of the process. Most states require 1 to 2 years of supervised work experience in accounting, under a licensed CPA. This experience must be:

Verified by your employer

In public accounting, corporate accounting, or government roles

Full-time (though some states accept part-time equivalents)

Check your state board’s requirements, as the type and duration of experience can vary.

Step 6: Apply for Your CPA License

After you've completed the educational requirements, passed all four sections of the CPA exam, and fulfilled the work experience requirement, you’re ready to apply for licensure.

Your state board may require:

Completion of an ethics exam (e.g., the AICPA Ethics Exam)

Background checks or fingerprinting

Additional documentation of experience and education

Once approved, you’ll be issued your official CPA license—congratulations, you're now a Certified Public Accountant!

Final Thoughts: Stay Licensed and Grow Your Career

Becoming a CPA doesn’t end with earning the title. You’ll need to maintain your license through Continuing Professional Education (CPE), which typically requires completing 40 hours of training per year.

But from here, your options are wide open. You can specialize in audit, tax, consulting, financial analysis, or even move into executive leadership. The CPA license isn't just a qualification—it's a credential that speaks volumes about your expertise and commitment to the profession.

Conclusion

Completing the CPA review is a major commitment—but it’s also one of the most rewarding professional achievements in accounting. From meeting education requirements to studying for and passing the exam, gaining experience, and applying for licensure, each step brings you closer to a respected and versatile career.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or already deep into your CPA studies, stay focused, stay organized, and most of all, believe in your ability to succeed. The CPA title is well within your reach.

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 How long does it take to prepare for CPA?

Preparing for the CPA accounting Training is a serious commitment. It's a major milestone in any accountant’s career, and it's one that requires time, dedication, and a solid strategy. One of the most common—and important—questions aspiring CPAs ask is:

"How long does it take to prepare for the CPA exam?"

The short answer is: it depends. On average, most candidates spend between 300 to 400 hours studying for the entire exam, spread across its four sections. But that number is only part of the story. The actual timeline can vary widely based on your background, work schedule, personal life, and learning style.

This article breaks down the key factors that influence how long it takes to prepare for the CPA exam and provides insights to help you build a preparation plan that fits your life.

Understanding the CPA Exam Structure

Before diving into timelines, it’s important to understand what you’re preparing for. The CPA exam is divided into four sections:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD)

Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)

Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)

Regulation (REG)

Each section is four hours long and consists of multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, and, in the case of BEC, a written communication task. You must pass all four sections within an 18-month rolling window, and each section demands a different study approach.

The Average Time Commitment: 300 to 400 Hours

On average, most candidates report spending:

80–100 hours on BEC

100–120 hours on AUD

120–150 hours on FAR

100–120 hours on REG

This totals between 300 to 400 hours across the entire exam.

That said, these are just estimates. Your actual prep time might be more or less depending on your familiarity with the material, your academic background, and how efficiently you study.

Key Factors That Influence Your Preparation Time

1. Your Accounting Background

If you recently graduated with an accounting degree or have taken CPA-related coursework, you’re likely to be familiar with much of the exam content. This can significantly reduce the time you need to study, especially for concepts you’ve seen in school.

On the other hand, if you’ve been out of school for a while or your degree wasn’t accounting-focused, you may need extra time to revisit foundational topics.

2. Your Weekly Study Time

How much time you can commit per week has a huge impact on your overall timeline.

15–20 hours per week: Many working professionals study in this range. At this pace, it could take 2–3 months to prepare for one section.

25–30+ hours per week: With more intensive study, possibly during a break or between jobs, you might complete a section in 4–6 weeks.

Under 10 hours per week: If you’re balancing heavy work and family responsibilities, your study timeline will naturally extend.

Being honest about your schedule and consistency is key. Even just one or two solid hours per day can add up—if you stick with it.

3. Work and Life Commitments

If you're working full-time or have family responsibilities, your prep time might be spread out over a longer period. That’s perfectly okay—many successful CPAs have balanced demanding schedules by studying early in the morning, late at night, or during weekends.

The important thing is to develop a sustainable rhythm that you can maintain. Burnout is a real risk, especially with long-term goals like the CPA exam.

4. The CPA Review Course You Choose

Your CPA review course can have a significant impact on how long you study. Some review providers offer structured, time-bound study schedules that guide you through content quickly and efficiently. Others offer more flexibility, which is great if you're managing a variable schedule, but it also requires more self-discipline.

Look for a course that matches your learning style—whether that’s visual lectures, interactive quizzes, printed materials, or mobile-friendly content.

Popular review providers include:

Becker – Known for comprehensive content and exam-day-like simulations.

Wiley CPAexcel – Great for breaking down content into manageable study units.

Roger CPA Review – Energetic video lectures and strong mnemonics.

Surgent – Adaptive learning technology that targets weak areas.

The right course can shorten your study time by helping you focus on what matters most.

5. Your Learning Style

Everyone absorbs information differently. Some people grasp concepts quickly and retain information with minimal review. Others need to see the same material multiple times to fully understand and apply it.

If you're a visual learner, you may benefit more from video lectures and infographics. If you're an auditory learner, listening to audio content or explaining concepts out loud may help you retain more.

Understanding how you learn best can save you time and frustration down the road.

6. The Order You Take the Exams In

Some candidates choose to take the hardest section first (usually FAR) while they’re fresh and motivated. Others prefer to start with a section they’re more comfortable with to build momentum.

How you order your exams can affect how long your study plan lasts. If you pass all four exams on the first attempt, you could potentially complete the entire CPA exam in 12 to 18 months. If you need to retake one or more sections, it may take longer.

A Sample CPA Study Timeline

Here’s a rough example for someone studying while working full-time (about 15–20 hours/week): Exam SectionStudy Time (Weeks)Weekly HoursTotal HoursFAR10–12 weeks15–20120–150AUD8–10 weeks15–20100–120REG8–10 weeks15–20100–120BEC6–8 weeks10–1580–100

This schedule would have you completing all four sections in roughly 9 to 12 months, assuming you pass each one on the first try.

Tips for Managing Your CPA Study Timeline

Start with a plan: Use a calendar or study planner to schedule your weekly goals.

Track your progress: Monitor your practice scores and adjust your focus based on weak areas.

Take breaks: Short, regular breaks help maintain focus and prevent burnout.

Stay flexible: Life happens—don’t be discouraged by small delays. What matters is consistency over time.

Final Thoughts

So, how long does it take to prepare for the CPA exam? The honest answer is: as long as you need—but probably between 9 to 18 months for most working professionals, and 300 to 400 total study hours.

Your journey is unique, and what matters most is staying committed, being realistic about your schedule, and using the resources that work best for you.

Whether you're just starting or already deep into your studies, remember: every hour you invest brings you one step closer to becoming a CPA—a credential that can define your career for decades to come.