CPA Exam Success Strategies
CPA Exam Structure
The Four Parts of the Exam
The CPA Exam is a four-part test. To become a licensed Certified Public Accountant, you'll need to pass all of them. Three sections are mandatory for everyone, covering the core knowledge of accounting. The fourth is a Discipline section, where you get to choose a specialty.
Each of the four sections is a four-hour exam. They all use the same two types of questions: Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) and Task-Based Simulations (TBSs).
MCQs are what you'd expect: standard multiple-choice questions. Task-Based Simulations are like mini case studies. They present a realistic work scenario and require you to use your knowledge to complete a task, like filling out a portion of a tax form or answering questions about a financial document.
The Core Sections
Every candidate must pass these three sections. They build the foundation of your accounting expertise.
| Section | Full Name | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| AUD | Auditing and Attestation | Covers the entire audit process, including ethics, risk assessment, and forming an opinion on financial statements. |
| FAR | Financial Accounting and Reporting | Focuses on U.S. GAAP standards for financial statements for various types of organizations. |
| REG | Taxation and Regulation | Tests your knowledge of federal taxation, business law, and professional ethics. |
Choosing Your Discipline
The final section allows you to specialize in an area that matches your career interests. You only need to choose and pass one of the following three options.
| Section | Full Name | Who It's For |
|---|---|---|
| BAR | Business Analysis and Reporting | Ideal for those interested in financial reporting, data analytics, and technical accounting. |
| ISC | Information Systems and Controls | A good fit if you're focused on IT systems, data security, and technology risks. |
| TCP | Tax Compliance and Planning | The choice for aspiring tax professionals, covering complex personal and entity tax planning. |
All four exams, including your chosen discipline, are the same length and use the same question formats. The main difference is the subject matter.
Now that you understand the structure, you can start thinking about how to approach your studies for each part.