[Anonymous]

Hi! So my application to sit for the CPA exams was finally approved by the CBA yesterday, and now I have to figure out what order I will be taking the exams.
I was thinking of taking FAR first, however, with REG changing in 2019 I was wondering if it would be better to take that first (I’m thinking late August). My school only offered one tax course and I took it almost 2 years ago, so I essentially would be starting fresh. Would it be better to take FAR first and just study for REG with the new changes for 2019 or try to complete REG in its current format?

I am so nervous for this process, so any insight or suggestions on what the best/most logical way to proceed would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

[Tarheel83]

Normally I would say FAR-AUD-REG-BEC, but due to the changes I would recommend REG(Q3)-FAR-AUD-BEC. Take REG in Q3 so you can have a retake in Q4 if needed. Definitely take FAR before AUD with a quick turn around on AUD. The AUD SIMs are notorious for having FAR elements in them (subsequent events, AJEs, ratios, FOB Shipping/FOB Destination). Normally those items aren't discussed or prepared for with just AUD material, but they are addressed in FAR.

[Anonymous]

So I took them in the order of REG, BEC, AUD, and then FAR. I was fine with this order, but looking back I probably wouldn't have waited to do FAR last. FAR is the most material, so if you can handle it- it is good to knock out of the way.

I would say FAR first if you can take REG in 2018 still. If you don't think you'll have time to do both, I would go ahead and knock out REG. There are still advantages of taking the current REG test, even if you don't feel like a tax wizard. The main one is that it is (relatively) clear what content you can expect on the exam now. Once we hit January, who knows. Personally, I would want to avoid the uncertainty associated with waiting.

[Author]

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