Passing the CPA exam while maintaining a full-time job is a significant challenge, but it’s entirely possible with the right strategy, preparation, and time management. To successfully juggle work, personal life, and exam prep, it’s essential to be organized and utilize the best resources available. A well-structured review course, such as those offered by Becker, can help streamline your study process and ensure you’re prepared when exam day arrives. Here are some tips and strategies to help you balance work and study, while increasing your chances of CPA exam success.
- Create a Study Schedule That Works for You
Time management is crucial when balancing a full-time job with studying for the CPA exam. One of the first steps is to create a study schedule that fits into your routine. It’s helpful to break your study sessions into smaller chunks, such as studying for one or two hours during the evenings or on weekends. While Becker’s review course offers a comprehensive guide to creating a personalized study plan, you can also create your own by identifying your available study hours and mapping out what to focus on each week. Be realistic about your time—consistency over time is key.
- Understand the Best Order for Taking the CPA Exam
Knowing the best order for taking the CPA exam is essential to managing your preparation and setting yourself up for success. According to expert recommendations, including those from Becker, it’s generally best to start with the FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting) section, followed by AUD (Auditing and Attestation), REG (Regulation), and finally BEC (Business Environment and Concepts). This order ensures that you’re building on foundational knowledge and progressing from the most challenging to the more straightforward sections.
- FAR is typically the longest and most content-heavy section, so it’s ideal to begin with it while you’re still fresh and have the most energy.
- AUD is often considered the second most challenging, requiring a deep understanding of auditing procedures and standards.
- REG is next, dealing with tax laws, business law, and ethics.
- BEC, which covers business concepts and operations, tends to be the most approachable section and can be tackled last when you are more confident in your study routine.
This strategic order allows you to focus on the most difficult material first, which can help keep motivation high as you advance to the lighter material later on.
- Stay Consistent with Your Study Routine
Consistency is essential for passing the CPA exam while working full-time. It’s important to maintain a steady pace in your study sessions, even if it means breaking down the material into small, manageable parts. Becker’s review courses break down each section into bite-sized lessons, making it easier for you to focus on one concept at a time. Make sure you review regularly and keep track of your progress so you can identify areas where you need extra help.
- Maximize Your Use of Available Resources
Along with your study plan, utilize available resources to make the most out of your limited study time. In addition to review courses, there are numerous other tools that can help you prepare effectively. Becker offers practice exams and multiple-choice questions, which help you become familiar with the exam format and build confidence. Flashcards and mobile apps are also excellent tools for reinforcing concepts during short breaks, whether you’re commuting or waiting for a meeting to start.
- Focus on Active Learning
Active learning is critical to retaining the material on the CPA exam. Rather than passively reading through your study materials, actively engage with them by taking notes, summarizing key concepts, and practicing multiple-choice questions. You can also take advantage of Becker’s question banks and simulated exams to gauge your progress. Regular practice not only helps you retain information but also builds the test-taking skills needed to perform well on the exam.
- Break Up Your Study Sessions
When you’re working full-time, it can be tough to find long blocks of uninterrupted study time. That’s why it’s important to break up your study sessions into shorter periods. Even if you can only dedicate 30 to 45 minutes in the morning or evening, this can still add up over time. Try to schedule your study time around your work schedule so that you can stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed.
- Take Care of Your Well-Being
Staying mentally and physically healthy is essential to your success on the CPA exam. Working full-time and studying for the CPA exam can lead to burnout if you don’t prioritize self-care. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, and find time for exercise. Regular physical activity can help reduce stress, improve focus, and keep you energized for both work and study. In addition, don’t forget to take breaks—studying for long hours without rest can lead to diminishing returns.
- Stay Motivated and Seek Support
Finally, staying motivated is key to pushing through the challenges of studying for the CPA exam. It’s normal to experience frustration or self-doubt at times, but remind yourself of your long-term goals. Break the journey into smaller milestones and celebrate your progress, whether that’s completing a chapter or passing a practice test. Additionally, seek support from colleagues, mentors, or online study groups who are also preparing for the exam. Knowing you’re not alone in this process can help you stay accountable and encouraged.
Conclusion
Passing the CPA exam while working full-time is no easy task, but with the right strategies and tools, it’s entirely possible. Develop a study plan that works for your schedule, take the exam sections in a strategic order, stay consistent with your efforts, and take care of yourself along the way. By utilizing resources like Becker and following these study tips, you can successfully navigate the exam process and take your career to the next level.
At Newburg CPA, we understand how demanding it can be to balance work and professional growth. Whether you’re working toward your CPA certification or advancing in your career, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Keep pushing forward—you’ve got this!