Preparing for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam is a rigorous process that requires careful planning, discipline, and a structured study schedule. With four demanding exam sections candidates must develop an efficient study routine to manage their time effectively and maximize retention.
A well-structured CPA Exam study schedule helps break down the vast amount of material into manageable portions, ensuring consistent progress and reducing last-minute cramming. However, simply following a schedule isn’t enough; candidates must also establish a study routine that reinforces learning, builds confidence, and keeps them motivated throughout the process.
This guide provides a step-by-step approach to creating a CPA Exam study schedule and routine, helping candidates stay on track and improve their chances of passing on the first attempt.
Understanding the CPA Exam Timeline and Study Commitment
Contents
The CPA Exam consists of four sections, each requiring thorough preparation. Candidates must pass all four sections within an 18-month rolling window, meaning careful time management is essential.
How Much Time Should You Study?
The amount of study time needed varies based on prior knowledge, experience, and individual learning pace. However, most candidates spend:
- FAR: 120–150 hours
- AUD: 80–100 hours
- REG: 90–110 hours
- BEC: 70–90 hours
On average, CPA candidates need 300 to 400 total study hours to prepare effectively. This means candidates should plan to study 15–20 hours per week over 8–12 weeks per exam section to stay on track.
Creating a CPA Exam Study Schedule
A well-structured study schedule ensures that candidates stay organized, cover all topics efficiently, and balance exam preparation with work and personal commitments.
Step 1: Determine Your Exam Order
Candidates can take the CPA Exam sections in any order. A common strategy is to:
- Start with FAR (as it is the most comprehensive section).
- Follow with AUD, which builds on FAR concepts.
- Take REG next, covering taxation and business law.
- Finish with BEC, which includes written communication tasks and business concepts.
However, the best order depends on individual strengths, weaknesses, and scheduling constraints.
Step 2: Set a Realistic Timeline
Most candidates study for 8–12 weeks per exam section while working full-time. Those studying full-time may complete a section in 6–8 weeks.
For example, a 12-week study plan for each section may look like this:
- Weeks 1–4: Watch lectures, take notes, and review multiple-choice questions.
- Weeks 5–8: Complete practice questions, simulations, and quizzes.
- Weeks 9–11: Focus on weak areas and take full-length practice exams.
- Week 12: Final review and exam readiness assessment.
This timeline provides structure and flexibility while ensuring comprehensive preparation.
Step 3: Break Down Weekly Study Goals
Rather than attempting to cover too much material at once, candidates should set weekly learning objectives. A typical weekly breakdown may involve:
- 5–6 study sessions per week (2–4 hours per session).
- Two to three chapters or topics covered weekly.
- Daily practice with multiple-choice questions and simulations.
- Scheduled review days to reinforce concepts.
Establishing an Effective CPA Exam Study Routine
Beyond setting a schedule, candidates must build a consistent study routine that maximizes efficiency and minimizes burnout.
#1 Study at the Same Time Each Day
Consistency is key. Candidates should set aside a specific time each day—whether early morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening—to create a study habit. Studying at the same time daily reinforces learning and reduces procrastination.
#2 Create a Distraction-Free Study Environment
A dedicated, quiet study space helps improve focus and retention. Candidates should minimize distractions by turning off notifications, using noise-canceling headphones, and keeping study materials organized.
#3 Use Active Learning Techniques
Rather than passively watching lectures, candidates should engage with the material by:
- Taking detailed notes and summarizing key points.
- Using flashcards for quick recall of formulas and definitions.
- Teaching concepts to others or explaining them aloud.
- Practicing under exam conditions to simulate test-day pressure.
#4 Incorporate Regular Breaks
Studying for long hours without breaks leads to fatigue and decreased retention. The Pomodoro Technique—studying for 50 minutes, then taking a 10-minute break—helps maintain focus and improve productivity.
#5 Track Progress and Adjust Accordingly
Candidates should review their performance weekly to identify weak areas and adjust their study plan. Using a CPA review course’s adaptive learning technology can help tailor study sessions based on progress.
Balancing CPA Exam Prep with Work and Life
Many CPA candidates juggle full-time jobs, personal commitments, and exam preparation simultaneously. To maintain a healthy balance, consider the following:
Prioritize Study Time in Your Daily Schedule
Treat CPA study sessions as non-negotiable appointments. Planning study hours before work, after work, or during weekends ensures steady progress.
Inform Your Employer and Family
Letting your employer and family know about your CPA Exam preparation can help set expectations and minimize conflicts. Some employers may offer study leave or flexible work hours to support employees taking the exam.
Make Use of Mobile Study Tools
For candidates with busy schedules, mobile study tools such as flashcards, audio lectures, and quiz apps provide an effective way to review material during commutes or lunch breaks.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating well are essential for maintaining focus and energy levels. Candidates should avoid burnout by incorporating relaxation techniques and rewarding themselves for achieving study milestones.
Final Review Strategies Before the Exam
In the final two weeks before the CPA Exam, candidates should shift their focus to:
- Completing full-length practice exams to build endurance.
- Reviewing weak areas based on previous performance.
- Practicing time management to ensure they can complete all questions within the exam time limit.
- Reinforcing key concepts using summary notes and flashcards.
The day before the exam should be reserved for light review and relaxation to avoid last-minute stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours should I study for each CPA Exam section?
Most candidates study **70–150 hours per section**, depending on their familiarity with the material, with **FAR requiring the most time (120–150 hours) and BEC the least (70–90 hours)**. A total of **300–400 study hours** is typically recommended to prepare for all four sections effectively.
How far in advance should I start studying for the CPA Exam?
Candidates should start studying **8–12 weeks before their scheduled exam date** to ensure adequate preparation time. A structured study plan with **consistent daily or weekly study sessions** helps maintain steady progress.
What is the best way to balance CPA Exam study with a full-time job?
The best approach is to **set a fixed study schedule** with dedicated time each day, such as **early mornings, evenings, or weekends**. Using **mobile study tools, breaking study sessions into smaller chunks, and leveraging adaptive learning resources** can help optimize limited time.
Should I study for multiple CPA Exam sections at the same time?
It is generally recommended to **focus on one exam section at a time** to ensure in-depth understanding and better retention. However, some candidates with **more study time** may choose to prepare for two sections concurrently if they complement each other, such as **FAR and AUD**.
Bottom Line
Passing the CPA Exam requires strategic planning, disciplined study habits, and consistent effort. A well-structured CPA Exam study schedule ensures that candidates allocate sufficient time to each topic, while a productive study routine helps reinforce learning and prevent burnout.
By following a realistic timeline, staying disciplined, and using active learning techniques, candidates can improve their retention, confidence, and overall performance. The CPA Exam is challenging, but with the right schedule and routine, success is achievable.
For those serious about earning their CPA designation, starting early, staying consistent, and leveraging the best study resources will make a significant difference in achieving CPA Exam success on the first attempt.