[jessbeckett]

I just recently decided to take the CPA exam. I have an MBA and all of the required education hours… However, after going over the material, I feel like I’m starting from scratch. How should I start studying if I’m starting from zero? Should I go over information for all 4 tests for a few months and then schedule my tests and study very intensely for 1 or 2 months before each test? Or just dive right in?

Also, I’m a little confused about the testing windows/allotted time to pass all 4 exams/18 month rule. That’s probably a dumb question, but guidance would be appreciated.

Thanks for any advice!!

[markiux88]

Take 1 section @ a time…especially FAR….BEC and AUD are probable doable together..

[Skippy1997]

Hi Jess,

I was in your exact position to the letter at the beginning of this year. My undergrad was not in accounting, so when I started my MBA degree I needed to take all the accounting classes offered to be able to sit for the CPA. Even if you have not had that many accounting classes recently or had a few in your MBA program, I suggest reviewing like you have never taken a class before in your academic career.

This is how I studied for the tests, maybe it will be a good plan for you as well:

– I used Becker (Books, Passmaster software for Multiple Choice Questions, Flash Cards, and Final Review) for my study material. Some people swear it was great (like me) while others did not like it one bit. Make sure to take the time to research as many review materials and try and demo them to see if it fits your style.

– I tend to procrastinate, so I knew I had to take my tests as fast as I could reliably study. I took AUD in the April/May window and the remaining tests (FAR, REG, BEC) in the July/Aug window. If you have the time, I would suggest 1-2 max per window to give you the proper time that you feel you need to study.

– When I studied I gave myself 4-6 weeks between tests. Each person's method may vary, but I suggest studying for one test at a time and ignore the other three. That way you can hit the topics in full. There is some overlap, but in my experience not enough to dictate which tests should be taken first. Most people do FAR first as it covers the most material and it has the most overlap (in my opinion).

– The 18 month window is that once you pass your first test, you have 18 months to pass the remaining tests. If you do not pass all four by then, you lose credit on your first test and have to re-take the exam.

Hope that helps some, but as you can see from reading the forum that there are many different experiences and preferences. I suggest taking an inventory on how much you can study over the next 6-12 months and look over the review materials that work for both your timeline and learning style.

Good luck!

AUD - 05/27/11 - 81
FAR - 07/05/11 - 83
REG - 08/06/11 - 91
BEC - 08/29/11 - 87
Ethics - 95

[Author]

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