Are you an aspiring accountant wanting some help with preparing for your upcoming exam? Varsity Tutors can help you study for it with a CPA prep course. If you've ever spent time looking up things like "CPA help near me" online, then you probably already know how beneficial it can be to work with an expert instructor while preparing for your upcoming exam. The Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination is created by the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) with some assistance from the NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy). The test assesses your skills and the knowledge that you need to have in order to work as a public accountant, either for yourself or for a company. Reach out to us to learn more about our CPA prep classes.
Why Take the CPA Examination?
The Uniform Certified Public Accountant Exam is typically taken by individuals who envision themselves having a career in the accounting industry. The test is widely respected in the industry and may be right for you if you'd like to work as an accountant. Individuals who earn this certification demonstrate their knowledge of the field of accounting to potential employers and clients. However, the exam can be difficult to perform well on without any test preparation guidance. If you plan on taking this exam, then taking CPA classes through Varsity Tutors could be the right move for you.
Exam Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin the CPA classes of your choice, it's a good idea to spend some time researching in order to make sure that you're actually eligible to take the exam. The first exam requirement is that, at least in most states, you need to be a US citizen in order to take the CPA. If you satisfy this requirement, then you're well on your way towards becoming eligible to take the CPA exam.
Similarly, the majority of states also require test takers to have a valid social security number in order to register to take the CPA. You also will need to be at least 18 years old. Finally, the biggest qualification hurdle for most individuals is that test takers must have either completed their bachelor's degree or have taken at least 120 college credit hours in the pursuit of a bachelor's degree. State requirements may vary slightly so you may want to check in with the state you live in to make sure you satisfy this educational requirement.
Unlike some professional certification exams, there are no work experience requirements that you must satisfy in order to take the CPA exam. Do you satisfy all of the CPA exam eligibility requirements? If so, then you can confidently sign up for CPA courses with Varsity Tutors without having to worry about whether or not you'll actually be able to register for your test when you're ready to take it. Continue reading for more information on the exam and how CPA courses can help you prepare for it.
Breaking Down the Exam
The CPA exam covers one of three E's that is a requirement for getting a license as an accountant working in the United States: education, examination, and experience. Fifty-five jurisdictions require successful completion of the CPA exam, though experience and education requirements differ for each jurisdiction or state. Some jurisdictions require that you successfully complete an exam in ethics, also known as the fourth "E." Below are its sections, time limits, and the number of questions the test has:
|
Section |
Time |
Multiple-choice Questions |
Task-based simulations |
Written Communication |
|
AUD |
4 Hours |
72 |
9 |
NA |
|
BEC |
4 Hours |
62 |
4 |
3 |
|
FAR |
4 Hours |
66 |
9 |
NA |
|
REG |
4 Hours |
76 |
9 |
NA |
The CPA exam contains four sections, and here's a breakdown of some of the topics you'll face:
- Ethics, Professional Responsibilities and General Principles
- Assessing Risk and Developing a Planned Response
- Performing Further Procedures and Obtaining Evidence
- Corporate Governance
- Economic Concepts and Analysis
- Financial Management
- Conceptual Framework, Standard-Setting and Financial Reporting
- Select Financial Statement Accounts
- Ethics, Professional Responsibilities and Federal Tax Procedures
- Business Law
- Federal Taxation of Property Transactions
As touched on briefly above, in its current form, the CPA exam is composed of four distinct sections. These sections are Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). Each of these sections has a slightly different test format, so you'll need to be prepared to answer a variety of question types that demonstrate your accounting knowledge.
Your grade on the Auditing and Attestation, Financial Accounting and Reporting, and Regulation test sections are scored similarly. 50% of your score on these sections will be based on your responses to the section's multiple-choice sections. The other 50% will be based on the responses you provide to the task-based exercises. The Business Environment and Concepts section of the CPA is slightly different. For this section of the exam, 15% of your score will come from the written responses you provide, 33% from the task-based work you do, and 50% from your multiple-choice selections. A strong The CPA prep course can help you develop the skills you need to feel confident taking each section of your upcoming test.
Varsity Tutors Can Help you Prepare for Your CPA Examination
You have a few different options to consider when deciding which CPA prep course you should sign up for. The CPA prep courses you ultimately decide on should reflect your learning style, test goals, and scheduling requirements. Read on to get more information on the different CPA prep courses options you can consider adding to your test preparation plan.
The first option you have is to work with a CPA prep class instructor in a one-on-one setting. This may be the right option for you if you've previously enjoyed getting direct feedback from your instructor. If you sign up for this style of CPA prep classes, your CPA prep class instructor can set you up with a customized learning plan that is based on your specific needs. These CPA prep classes offer a personalized learning experience that is hard to match through other test preparation resources.
A CPA prep class tutor can help you try to understand any of the exam's sections. The great thing about our CPA prep courses is that instructors can conduct lessons at a speed that suits you, whether you want them to explain something slowly or speed things up. Maybe you want some advice on organizing your notes because they're scattered everywhere, making it tough for you to concentrate. In a CPA course, a tutor can assist you with getting organized by providing an outline on how to neatly arrange notes. Being organized also cuts down on wasted time better spent studying. Do you absorb information better through visual or auditory learning? A CPA class tutor can offer a sound file or slides to try to help you comprehend a topic like financial accounting better. Our CPA courses help students study, as well as build effective work skills.
If you want to go over subjects like financial management or business law, a CPA class tutor can review them with you. You can request practice questions to get a taste of the real thing, or flashcards if you prefer a fun way of reviewing topics. Does the thought of taking the CPA exam scare you a little? Feel free to talk about your feelings with a tutor because it's okay to feel intimidated about taking a test. A tutor can try to reduce your fears by giving you some confidence-boosting tips.
The next CPA course option you should consider is a CPA class that takes place in a small group setting. This may be the right test preparation option for you if you've enjoyed learning in a traditional classroom environment in the past. Your CPA course will take place online and give you the chance to learn alongside a group of peers. A group-based CPA course combines all of the benefits of a traditional CPA course in a convenient online setting.
Varsity Tutors offers a variety of CPA class options that can easily fit the needs of most students. We make every effort to connect our students with CPA class educators who are able to work with them around their existing scheduling obligations. That means you can easily sign up for the CPA class that makes the most sense for your learning needs without worrying how it will affect the other important parts of your life.
Finally, your test preparation instructor can also spend some time helping you with developing your general test-taking skills. For example, test anxiety is a common occurrence among individuals who are preparing to take the CPA exam. Anxiety is a common response to taking an important exam like the CPA that has the potential to impact your future. Unfortunately, test anxiety can make it hard to focus on the day of your exam. It can also make it difficult to remember the preparation work you did in the lead up to your test. Your instructor can show you techniques that you can use to deal with any test anxiety you experience. This can make your test day flow more smoothly.
Your instructor can also show you how to manage your time more effectively while taking the CPA exam. Since you'll need to complete a lot of work within each section's four hour time window, a great time management plan could help you feel more comfortable while taking your test. These skills that your test preparation instructor can provide you with are ones that you can utilize on the entire CPA exam as well as on any future exams you may take. To get this type of assistance, you don't need to search online for "CPA tutors near me". Instead, you can easily get started by contacting Varsity Tutors today.
Facts About CPA Test Takers
The CPA is a challenging exam that requires a strong test preparation process. This is a fact that is backed up by the statistics provided by AICPA regarding the individuals who take the CPA exam. In fact, the average passing rate for each section of the CPA exam usually sits at around just 50%. That means that around half of the individuals who take the CPA exam each year won't pass.
This exam is a popular one and usually has around 100,000 test takers depending on the year. This is why internet searches for things like "CPA help near me" have also grown in popularity recently. If you want to rise to the top of this group in terms of exam performance, then taking an exam preparation course is a smart way to work towards doing so. Rather than spending time online looking up "CPA tutoring near me", you can easily get started with the test preparation option of your choice by contacting Varsity Tutors.
Getting Started
Taking the CPA is a smart career move if you plan on working in the accounting industry. However, as detailed above, it can be a difficult exam to pass without any test preparation guidance. You can easily start building your own ideal study plan by getting in touch with Varsity Tutors today. Educational directors are standing by to help you identify the test prep option that is the best fit for your specific needs. Working with an expert while you prepare for the CPA exam could help you create a test preparation plan that is more effective and efficient overall. Why not let us help you get more out of your study sessions?
As someone studying accounting, you're probably juggling other responsibilities as well. We understand how tough it can be, so we try to make things easier for you by offering flexible CPA classes through our Live Learning Platform. The Live Learning Platform allows you to communicate with a tutor via computer, tablet, or smartphone. Take your first step toward reaching for your vocational objectives by contacting Varsity Tutors and signing up for a CPA course. We'd love to use our experience in the test preparation industry to help you pursue your CPA goals. We hope to hear from you soon!
Jonathan: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...in high school with math to assisting graduate students with accounting as a TA, I understand the impact a good tutor can have not only on the bottom line grade but on overall confidence in a subject. Studying for the CPA exam (and scoring FAR-93, AUD-90, BEC-95, REG-94) puts me in a unique position to...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
- The University of Texas at Austin - Masters in Business Administration, Taxation
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Managerial Accounting
- Business
- Cost Accounting
- +21 subjects
Dany: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...you want to be. Many of my students appreciate that I don't just focus on getting the right answer but also on building a deeper understanding of the "why" behind the material. That way, you're not only prepared for tests but also more confident in applying what you've learned in the future. If you're looking...
Education & Certification
- HULT Business School - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Financial Accounting
- Business
- CPA AUD - CPA Attestation and Auditing
- +4 subjects
Melinda: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...for other accountants, I've felt the most satisfaction in my work. I love helping others, and in particular, I have a passion for helping others learn more easily, especially those who are struggling the most. In my spare time, I like to practice creative writing, and maintain a daily journal. I find that these soft...
Education & Certification
- Towson University - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CFP
- Other
- High School English
- +80 subjects
Christopher: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...and my master's of accountancy. I hold a CPA and also the CMA. I have taught middle through high school students as well as tutored for preparations on professional exams (CPA & CMA). I want to help anyone eager to learn to help accomplish their career, person, and scholarly goals in any way I can.
Education & Certification
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- Brigham Young University-Provo - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CMA - Certified Management Accountant
- CPE - Certificate of Proficiency in English
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- +64 subjects
Rochelle: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...one on one trainings with staff who worked directly with me. I am a visual learner and think that the best way to truly learn and understand a concept is by seeing it drawn out in front of you and by practicing examples. Real world application helps! I'm pretty patient and have had success in...
Education & Certification
- University of Rhode Island - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Economics
- CLEP
- Italian
- +24 subjects
Craig: Petaluma CPA course instructor
I am a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Arizona. I enjoy tutoring and enjoy when a student understands a concept which I have helped them done so. I have public and industry experience. My experiences include taxation, real estate, construction and development, property management, restaurants, loans and leasing, consulting, and non-profits.
Education & Certification
- University of Arizona - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Managerial Accounting
- CPA AUD - CPA Attestation and Auditing
- CPA BEC - CPA Business Environment and Concepts
- +10 subjects
Jason: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...my teaching style is conversational. I am a certified public accountant and chartered financial analyst. I enjoy teaching others about difficult subjects.I have an undergraduate degree in management and accounting and a masters in business with a concentration in accounting. I also have extensive knowledge and experience tutoring macro and micro economics.
Education & Certification
- Samford University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CTP - Certified Treasury Professional
- CAIA Level II
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- +52 subjects
Douglas: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...have 4 children and they are all grown now. We have two dogs, both Australian Shepherds, that are very smart and we enjoy them very much. I tutor accounting, business, CPA Prep, and Finance courses. I like to use examples to help students and solve by walking through each step. Then I usually ask the...
Education & Certification
- Purdue University-Main Campus - Bachelor in Arts, Accounting
- DeVry University's Keller Graduate School of Management-Indiana - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Math
- Accounting
- CPA REG - CPA Regulation
- +22 subjects
Elijah: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...operational advisory work across industries. I have conducted macro, industry, and internal entity value chain analysis in offering advisory services to restructure operations / processes and improve competitiveness. I have built complex multi-currency financial models, automated credit rating tools, automated supply chain tools & automated operational optimization tools via data analytics platforms. My footprint spans...
Education & Certification
- Oxford Brooks - Bachelor of Accountancy, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Management
- CPA FAR - CPA Financial Accounting and Reporting
- Accounting
- +9 subjects
John: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...at Merrimack College in North Andover, MA and I received my MSA from Notre Dame in South Bend, IN. While at Notre Dame I was a tutor for student athletes. I currently work full time as a public accountant in Big 4 as an international tax associate. My tutoring style is to be very thorough...
Education & Certification
- Merrimack College - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- University of Notre Dame - Master of Science, Taxation
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Intermediate Accounting
- Accounting
- Productivity
- +22 subjects
Rubiela: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...and CFE certified with over 30 years of Accounting/Audit experience and have been teaching accounting/business related subject for over 20 years. This allows me to bring real live experiences to the sessions and complement the text materials. I am here to help you attained your goals and adjust as permitted to your needs.
Education & Certification
- University of Bridgeport - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- University of Miami - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- IB Business & Management
- Accounting
- High School Accounting
- +25 subjects
Shane: Petaluma CPA course instructor
As a Licensed CPA and Accounting, Finance and Economics triple major from the University of Michigan, I seek to share my passion for learning with others. My experience in Big 4 tax and SEC reporting for a major bank gives my knowledge a real world background in addition to a conceptual one.
Education & Certification
- University of Michigan-Dearborn - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- Management
- Business Analytics
- +26 subjects
Melissa: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...four sections of the CPA exam and currently working towards the additional requirements for licensure. Throughout my college experience, I enjoyed tutoring and getting to know undergraduate students, especially in my role as a Teaching Assistant for the Intro to Accounting course at UA. I have had the privilege to work alongside other students for...
Education & Certification
- The University of Alabama - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- The University of Alabama - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CPA REG - CPA Regulation
- Financial Accounting
- College Accounting
- +16 subjects
Jordan: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...software. I get to know my tutees by first asking them how they prefer to learn. I then base my lesson plan on their preferred style of teaching. I like to break down problems step by step and help guide the student so they completely understand the material. My favorite subjects to tutor are the...
Education & Certification
- Bloomsburg University - Bachelors, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- High School English
- AP Macroeconomics
- Microeconomics
- +19 subjects
Howard: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...at the doctoral level and a CPA. I have over 35 years of college level teaching in a major university. I am active in CPA societies. Prior to teaching I worked for Deloitte & Touche and PricewaterhouseCoopers. I am knowledgeable and caring with regard to dealing with students both in their professional and personal careers,
Education & Certification
- Roosevelt University - Bachelor of Science, Business, General
- Roosevelt University - Master of Science, Accounting
- Northern Illinois University - Doctor of Education, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Technology and Coding
- Professional Certifications
- High School Accounting
- +10 subjects
Jonah: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...a different skill set working in a Staff Accountant role. Although my primary background is in Accounting, I have multiple interests in tutoring subjects ranging from English, Information Technology, to Algebra. I am a people person and I really enjoy connecting with my students in order to figure out the best ways to motivate them....
Education & Certification
- DePaul University - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Elementary School Reading
- Intermediate Accounting
- Business
- +27 subjects
Michael: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...clients in private equity, hedge funds, private credit, commodity trading and real estate. I attended Sacred Heart University where I received a Bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance and a Master of Science in Accounting. Lastly, I am a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New York State Society of...
Education & Certification
- Sacred Heart University - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- Sacred Heart University - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- College Accounting
- Macroeconomics
- Financial Accounting
- +19 subjects
Valerie: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...my students, and show that learning very fun! In my spare time, I enjoy reading various topics on Jesus, self-improvement, history, financial literacy, biographies, etc. I am passionate about traveling and embracing myself in different cultural experiences around the world. I love to exercise and spend quality time with friends and family.... I like to give real-world examples that are relative to the student.
Education & Certification
- Hampton University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Hampton University - Masters in Business Administration, MBA
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7
- ACT Science
- Computer Science
- +133 subjects
Education & Certification
- Fordham University - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CPA FAR - CPA Financial Accounting and Reporting
- CLEP
- Science
- +19 subjects
Hunter: Petaluma CPA course instructor
...to learning has helped my students become more confident in difficult subjects and perform better in class. I firmly believe education is a life-long journey and my goal is to inspire my students to not only study to ace an upcoming exam but to aspire to become life-long learners. In my free time I enjoy...
Education & Certification
- The Texas A&M University System Office - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
- The Texas A&M University System Office - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- NMLS - Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System
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- +74 subjects