[prm0008]

So I started studying for FAR today (using Wiley). And I’m trying to figure out how to plan this thing out. I have 2 full weeks until I start work at an accounting firm (regional firm) (start date Sept. 26). How many hours should I try to crank out in the two weeks leading up to work? And how many hours should I study per week once work starts? (since i’m a newbie at the firm, should I be focusing more on work rather than studying?)

Anyway, the big question is when should I schedule my test date? I know I’m going to continue to put off scheduling the exam until I get some good insight from a few people. And I just know right when I schedule it, my stress levels will be borderline unhealthy–but obviously I have to suck it up and just schedule it, SO.. that’s why I’m asking you folks for your wisdom.

Thank you, my friends.

[caotran]

My case maybe not a good example but hopefully you can find something useful from my experience.
FAR was my first test so I tried to prepare it carefully (plus, English is my second language so it took me longer to read and understand the materials). I took about 6 weeks off after graduating to study. I read book (Becker +Ninja Notes), took notes, practiced MCQ (NINJA) about 4-5 hours/ day. When I started working full-time (3 weeks before the test), I studied 1 hour before going to work and 1.5-2 hours after work ( at weekend, I tried to study 4 hours/ day). I did take a break/ mini vacation 1-2 days without studying just to relax and refresh.
I'm not super smart and did not pass with high score either. But I passed it and move on to BEC now while working full-time with the same schedule as mentioned above.
People in this forum are very helpful and shared good study tips so I came here frequently to read and learn from them.
Good luck with everything.

[Anonymous]

I might not be the best example either. English is not my first language, so reading the book was not as helpful as I wish it were. I used Wiley CPA as well. I watched all video lectures and did multiple choices like a madman. I studied Monday through Friday from 7 to 11 (20 hours) and weekends from 10 am to 9pm with some breaks in between (around another 15 hours), and I have done that for 3 months. It completely felt like a second full time job for me. After those 3 months, I was fully confident I was ready to knock the test out of the park. The other 3 tests might not be easier, but they are lighter for sure, and thats what turns FAR into a completely different beast. I was working in a CPA firm while I was studying for FAR, and I can tell you that I have no good memories for those past 3 months.

[Author]

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