Tips for Taking the CPA Exam

Passing the CPA Exam requires planning and preparation in many areas. Valuable time can be lost during the exam if you are not fully prepared. In addition to knowing the subject matter required to pass, you need to know how to apply to sit for the exam and how to function efficiently in the testing center. The AICPA provides information on their web site at: http://www.cpa-exam.org.

Exam Application and Registration are described on the AICPA web site. Note that you need to apply early. The AICPA states that it may take 6-8 weeks for the first time application to be approved. Make sure that the name you put on the application is exactly the same name that appears on the two IDs you are required to show later at the testing center. If it says Bill on your Notice to Schedule (NTS) and William on your IDs you may not be admitted to the testing center. Call 1-800-CPA-EXAM for more information.

Time management both before and during the exam is crucial. Plan your time in advance. You should arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes early. Know how the examination software functions by reviewing the tutorial and sample test at: http://www.cpa-exam.org/lrc/exam_tutorial_parallel.html.

Be careful not to spend excessive time on the introductory screens. There is a time limit of about 10 minutes on those screens. If the time limit is exceeded, the test session will automatically terminate. If termination occurs it will not be possible to re-start the examination. In that case you will have to re-apply to take your scheduled section.

Keep track of your time during the exam to make sure that you are moving through the questions quickly enough to address all of them. CPAexcel provides unlimited access to Practice Exams as well as rationales to Simulations and all Multiple Choice questions.

After the Examination. Keep the Confirmation of Attendance form issued after the examination as it provides valuable contact information. As directed on this form, report any examination incidents/concerns in writing even if these issues have already been reported to test center staff.

Exam scores. According to the AICPA: "Candidate responses are forwarded to the AICPA for scoring after the Examination. The responses are identified by Examination Section ID only. When advisory scores and performance information become available, the AICPA forwards them to NASBA for processing, which involves matching the scores and performance information to individual candidates. NASBA then forwards the scores to boards of accountancy for approval and subsequent release to candidates. Boards of accountancy determine the actual schedule for reporting scores to candidates." The timing of the actual release of scores to students may vary a great deal depending on the various Boards and their practices.

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