[Anonymous]

I am going to begin studying for the CPA exam and I am not sure how I should about the application. Do I pay for the exams then begin studying or should I begin studying then submit the application to take the exams when I am ready? What do you suggest? I don’t see a way to submit an application to receive confirmation that I am eligible to take the exams.

I am also trying to figure out the best and most cost effective method of preparing for the exam. The price of Becker is too high. I live in New York.

Thanks

[Anonymous]

Check the New York Board of Accountancy (or whatever its name is- each state is different), to get the details. You need to find out lead times for your paperwork. In IL, you have to submit your academic credentials to be approved to take the exam, which takes 6-8 weeks. Once you have that, you can pay your fees and apply for an NTS, which then finally allows you to schedule. Do your investigation immediately, so you know the lead times. NASBA's website, as well as Becker's (I know you said you won't be using them, but the website still has good application information), will be able to give you the state-by-state details.

Every single state is different, so you'll have to do some research to know for sure.

As for prep, all I can say is that I use Becker and I like it. There are a ton a threads on this site that have good discussions on different test-prep approaches. In additional to the national brands which you can read about here, there are some colleges that offer an in-house course. In additional, sometimes if you join your state CPA society you can get a discount with Becker or another prep course. Just poke around this site and I am sure you will find what you are looking for. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

Badger is right – you need to see what the lead times are for the state of NY. For a first application, you need to give yourself a good amount of time to get through the application process before you want to take your test. Since the NTS is good for 6 months, you could start the application process now, then start studying. Personally, I study better when I have my exam date set already. It's too easy for me to procrastinate and not study when I don't have the exam scheduled.

[Anonymous]

Ok thanks. From what I read I need to pay for at least one exam plus the application fee but it said do not pay for an exam unless you are sure you will be able to take it within 6 months. That is what has me confused. I plan to begin taking the exams in July and complete all 4 by November.

[Anonymous]

If you're planning to start in July I wouldn't apply for anything else. You should contact the state board and ask how long the first application takes. Then work back from July to figure out when you should apply.

I have always only applied for 1 at a time, just in case something came up preventing me from having time for both. You pay more in application fees that way, but I'd rather pay the extra in application fees than have to wing a $200 test because I ran out of time.

[Anonymous]

Ok I guess I will wait. You cannot submit the application without paying for at least one class.

[Author]

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