CPA Reviewed - Podcast #12

1. June: I need your advice. I don't have kids and studying for CPA is now my full time job. I thought I would be able to sit for all 4 tests within one month. I have taken two tests already and will have to take two more. I study about 8-10 hours per day but I don't think it is enough. I know that I did not do well on my first two exams, and I dont think I will be ready for the last 2. I feel very overwhelmed and need direction and new study strategies. I am waiting for my results, and if I don't pass it, I would take them again in January or February. Can you suggest any study strategies that could help me?

1. Calvin: My review course is suggesting that I study all 4 sections at the same time to get a better grasp of whole accounting system. While I'm sure these people know what they are doing, I can't agree with it since that would be too much information and I would forget what I've learned. Would you suggest to work on one subject then move to another or study all 4 courses at the same time as suggested?

1. Maso: I have passed Regulation, took BEC in October (awaiting result), and I am taking FAR at the end of November. I plan to take Audit in January or February 2012. I cant decide whether I should buy Audit material this year or wait for the new 2012 materials. Do you have any information whether there are changes in 2012 Audit material?

1. Jason: I took audit today, and I think I did well on the multiple choice questions, but the simulations were extremely tough. Are the scores coming out faster now? I think instead of starting to study for the next section I should wait and see if I failed so I can just study for Audit more and take it again in January. What are your thoughts?

1. Prashanthi: I cleared the BEC section, and the credit expires on Feb 29, 2012. I have the other three sections to pass. I have a one-year-old kid and all the household work to take care of. I am hardly finding time to study. I started preparing for AUD as I planned to sit for one exam by the end of this month. I haven't covered majority of material as of now. Can you please suggest what I can do in this situation to pass 3 sections in such a short period of time?

1. Anonymous: I have been out of school for 2 years and have no accounting related experience. I have been working as loan processor and TBH, and I am tired of this position. I applied and was approved to sit for the CPA exams, but the fact that I have no work experience and that it has been a while since my last accounting class is stressing me out. I am thinking about buying the Wiley review materials. I also decided to study full time (No work, No school). Can I pass if I put in 6-8 hours a day and spend 3-4 weeks for each section? Please let me know what you think.

1. Brian: I messed up and waited too long to reserve my time slot to take my exam section. I live in Georgia, have taken and passed my 3 previous exam sections in Georgia, and plan on being licensed in Georgia. The only slot Prometric has to take the exam that fits my schedule is located in Alabama. I'm willing to drive to take the exam there, but I'm wondering if there are any issues taking an exam section in another state. Do I have to transfer the score? Will the score still count? I know it is called the “Uniform CPA Exam” so I wouldn't think there would be an issue, but I wanted to check with you and see your thoughts/experiences with the matter.

1. Andrew: For someone who hasn't passed any parts yet, do you think it's better to keep taking one part until you pass that part, or should you just take all four parts in a row and see how you do? Your thoughts are appreciated.

1. Vipul: I passed all 4 sections in September 2010 through the New Hampshire State Board. Since then, I have been trying to find an opportunity in the United States where I can get my license. I need your advice as to how can I get a license in the United States and how should I apply since I only have a tourist visa for the U.S. and not a work visa, which isnt easy to get.

1. Katherine: I have taken the CPA exam twice and failed then took a year off. I am ready to gear up and take it again next year but get serious and pass this time. Do you have any advice on which part to take first? I have been out of school for five years and currently work only in tax.

1. Erik: I am trying to find information on getting a new NTS to reschedule REG which I am scheduled to take in 10 days. My NTS ends 12/27/2011. Is it possible to get a new NTS without having to pay another $211? Thank you for the help!

1. Lisa: I am a CPA candidate looking to sit for all four sections in 2012. Can I get 18 months of access to the Wiley test bank? Can you tell me more about Wiley?

CPA Reviewed – Podcast #12