1. Visit becker.com/state for state requirements.
Step 2: Apply
Note to Account Manager: The current image is clipped from an IL state requirements flyer on promotebecker.com and hyperlinked to our state requirements page - Update the image based on the location you’re presenting in, and hyperlink it to the appropriate state requirements page.
As I mentioned earlier, we have a great resource available to you that offers a state by state reference guide. You can visit becker.com/state to review each jurisdiction to manage the CPA Exam application process successfully. On this page, you will also find links to each states’ board of accountancy website for additional information.
When determining which state you will apply in, you may consider whether you are planning a career in public accounting or industry. For public accounting paths, you will want to get your license in the state in which you will work. For industry, obtain a license in the state that best meets your personal profile.
Then, when you’re ready, you need to carefully complete and submit your application and fees.
Visit becker.com/state for state requirements.

2. Step 3: Prepare 2018 Testing Windows 2019 Testing Windows Jan Feb Mar
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Now that you have applied, the next step is to begin studying for the exam. What you see here is a review of the 2017 and 2018 testing windows.
In 2018 the first two months will be open for testing; whether the third month will be open is still undetermined. Unless you hear otherwise, assume that March 2018 will be closed.
Let’s talk about a few key pointers to lead you to success!
Sit for exams as soon as eligible. Don’t delay.
You must pass all 4 parts within an 18 month window. Any passing score beyond 18 months you lose and must repeat if you have not successfully completed the 4 parts. Your window starts the day you took the first section that you ultimately passed—not the day you found out that you passed.
If you do not pass a section, you cannot retake it during the same testing window. 
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3. Step 4: Schedule Schedule your exam Find your location
Once your application has been approved you will be given the go-ahead to pay your examination fee in order to receive your Notice to Schedule (NTS). The NTS allows you to schedule your exam at a Prometric site. Many NTSs expire in 6 months, so only pay for the section(s) you plan to take during that window.
All scheduling goes through Prometric.com. On the site, search “CPA” and it will take you to where you can:
Schedule your exam
Find your location

4. CPA Exam Structure ‘Traditional’ Simulations
Document Review Simulations
Research Simulations
Written Communication
AUD 36 2 3
BEC 31
3 WC
FAR 33
REG 38

5. Exam Structure: Financial
Next is the Financial section. Because it’s considered the most challenging and the most labor intensive section to study for, many candidates take this section first.
The FAR section is one of the most challenging sections, covering subjects ranging from Financial Statement Accounts to Transactions, Events & Disclosures to Not for-Profit Accounting. Some questions focus on key differences between financial statements prepared using U.S. GAAP versus those prepared using International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Your Intermediate Accounting classes will serve as the foundation for this exam.

6. Exam Structure: Audit
Let’s take a look at an overview of each section. We begin with the AUDIT section. The AUD section of the CPA Exam encompasses the entire audit process. It also includes services such as compilations, reviews and attestation engagements, and the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct.
The Audit section of the exam includes Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), Task-Based Simulations (TBS) and at least one research question.
The exam tests four skill levels including the analysis and evaluation. The Audit section is the only section that tests the evaluation skill level.

7. Exam Structure: Regulation
Lastly, Regulation. The REG section of the CPA Exam combines federal taxation and business law, including ethics and professional responsibilities. REG is effectively “immune” to IFRS, as it tests U.S. tax law and business law.

8. Exam Structure: Business
Next up is the Business section. The BEC section of the CPA Exam encompasses content from a fairly broad range of subject areas, including Economics, Information Systems, Strategic Planning and Corporate Governance.
BEC can be challenging because of the breadth of material, including operations and strategic management, economics, financial management and information technology.
BEC includes Multiple-Choice Questions, Task-Based Simulations and written communication questions. Time management is an essential part of each candidate’s test-taking strategy. Learn more about time management on each exam section on our blog, beckerpinnacle.com.

9. Exam Strategies: Study & Preparation
Concentrate on one part at a time
Create a realistic study plan
Set incremental goals (daily/weekly) and stick with them
Be respectful of work-life-exam balance
Who’s your go to? Study group, study partner, academic support?
Be prepared for the investment of time required
Prepare as soon as you are eligible

10. Exam Strategies: Multiple Choice
Be familiar with the format and functionality
Determine the “call” of the question first
Read all four choices before selecting your answer
Remember, it’s not the right answer, it’s the best answer
Control the amount of time you spend on each question
Answer every multiple choice question

11. Exam Strategies: Simulations
Be familiar with the format and functionality
Use a logical progression for each simulation
Review each task’s instructions and requirements
Make sure to read the “call” of each simulation element
Ensure you work through and respond to all elements
Control the amount of time you spend on each testlet
You should complete Testlets 1-3 in the first two hours
You should complete Testlets 4-5 in the second two hours

12. Exam Strategies: Time Management
Total Exam Time is 4 hours AICPA Recommends you should complete Testlet 3 by the 2 hour mark Testlets = 6 simulations (BEC 5) Therefore: 120 minutes / 6 simulations = 20 minutes per simulation Testlet 3 = 2 simulations Therefore: 2 simulations x 20 minutes per simulation = 40 minutes Therefore: 80 minutes for multiple choice questions Testlets = multiple choice questions Therefore: 40 minutes per testlet or ~63-77 seconds per question

13. Exam Strategies: Time Budget
Introduction / Launch Code – 5 minutes Confidentiality / Exam Overview – 5 minutes Testlet 1: 4:00 – 3:20 Testlet 2: 3:20 – 2:40 Testlet 3: 2:40 – 2:00 Off the Clock Break – 15 minutes Testlet 4: 2:00 – 1:00 Testlet 5: 1:00 – 0:00 Closing Survey – 5 minutes

14. A Personalized Learning Experience
Adapt2U Adaptive Learning Technology
Pre-assessment provides a recommended learning path
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Progress tests track
ongoing proficiency
Becker’s innovative Adapt2U Adaptive Learning Technology allows students to tailor their study experience to their unique needs.
This interactive technology begins with a specially designed pre-assessment that provides a recommended learning path focusing on key areas where students need the most help.
Ongoing progress tests track proficiency and provide feedback along the way allowing students to focus on areas of improvement, continuing to build knowledge and confidence for CPA Exam success.

15. Ashley Stephens becker.com | 1.877.CPA EXAM|
becker.com | CPA EXAM
At Becker, we know you don’t just study for a test. You study for a career.
Thank you for your time today. I look forward to working with each one of you on your journey to becoming a CPA.
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