I want to study and pass the CPA exam. Any tips or hints would be appreciated. Thank you.

1/17/2006 11:32:24 AM

go buy the book on it

1/17/2006 11:51:01 AM

Passing the CPA Exam is an exercise in hard work and discipline. Let's assume you've taken the requisite coursework (an undergraduate degree in accounting at a minimum--an UG degree plus additional coursework leading to a MAC degree ideally). If you've not done that you're placing yourself at a real disadvantage when compared to the typical CPA Exam candidate.

Best advice is to enroll in a CPA Exam Review course offered by a reputable provider. In our area there are two choices: NC State offers a review course that meets predominantly over the Summer I semester (mid May through June) for MAC students just finishing their degrees. This class is open to non-MACs on a space available basis for a fee. Contact Professor Kathy Krawczyk, MAC Program Director for more information and availability. Becker offers a review that meets out in the RTP and is offered in a variety of formats.

Both choices are expensive (~$2000). If that's not doable then self-study is an option. Purchase a good set of Review Materials (NC State uses the Wiley CPA Review texts) and follow their advice carefully. Don't shortcut the preparation time that they recommend. Taking the CPA Exam is an expensive proposition (first-time candidates will spend $800+ to register and sit for all four parts of the exam). Plan an approach that will maximize your opportunities to pass each of the exams on your first sitting. This means planning carefully and scheduling exams with breaks netween sittings to allow for focused review in the week or two preceding the date you'll sit.

Learn more about the exams at http://www.cpa-exam.org

This AICPA site has a wealth of information, practice questions, etc. that all serious candidates must know. Good Luck!

1/19/2006 3:05:37 PM

^YES!!!! I was hoping one of the wonderful faculty from ACC would answer. Thank you!

1/19/2006 5:13:29 PM

Thank you for your responses!

1/20/2006 9:17:29 AM

One of my father's co-workers had a wife that was going to take the CPA exam. All I remember is that the company that she worked for PAYED her to stay at home and study for this exam. I remember stopping by a couple times and she was always studying. Needless to say, she passed and now makes $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.

Good Luck

1/20/2006 9:44:30 AM