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: Victoria CPA course instructor
...at every level of my education career. From helping fellow students 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...
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
- CPA FAR - CPA Financial Accounting and Reporting
- ACT Reading
- SAT Reading
- +21 subjects
Valerie: Victoria CPA course instructor
...a focus on Accounting. I also received my Masters in Business Administration. I am a Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Throughout college, I tutored students from grades K-8 in the subjects of Reading and Math. I also tutored my colleagues in the subjects of Accounting, Finance, and Public Speaking....
Education & Certification
- Hampton University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Hampton University - Masters in Business Administration, MBA
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7
- IB Computer Science
- IB Business & Management
- +133 subjects
Shane: Victoria CPA course instructor
...degrees in Accountancy. After graduation, I worked as an auditor for a Big Four accounting firm, primarily working with public clients. During that time, I took and passed all CPA exams. Currently, I work as an accounting supervisor for a Fortune 25 company in Atlanta, GA. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I...
Education & Certification
- Miami University-Oxford - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- Miami University-Oxford - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- NMLS - Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System
- College Business
- +61 subjects
Andrea: Victoria CPA course instructor
...and Accounting, as well as my Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. I am a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Fraud Examiner, and Certified Information Systems Auditor (non-practicing). I have a diverse professional background, working as an auditor, accountant, and tax preparer at two different Certified Public Accounting firms; and an information technology...
Education & Certification
- Berry College - Bachelor in Arts, Accounting
- Berry College - Master of Arts, Business, General
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Quickbooks
- Professional Certifications
- Math
- +25 subjects
George: Victoria CPA course instructor
...capital markets and financial reporting. The intersection of these topics is fascinating, and hopefully I can demonstrate their importance to your goals and future career. I attended the University of Texas (Hook'em!), earning both an undergraduate and master's degree. My work experience consists of Big4 public accounting firms, the oil field services industry, and oil...
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Austin - Bachelor of Science, Economics
- The University of Texas at Austin - Master of Arts, Public Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Macroeconomics
- Professional Certifications
- College Level American History
- +19 subjects
Rebecca: Victoria CPA course instructor
...school and it is one of my biggest passions. I tutor in all accounting subjects, and a variety of math and professional courses. Please don't hesitate to ask me questions before and during the tutoring sessions. Questions are the best way for me to understand what you already know so that I can help and...
Education & Certification
- The University of Tennessee - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- The University of Tennessee - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CPA REG - CPA Regulation
- Study Skills and Organization
- Middle School Math
- +15 subjects
Shane: Victoria 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)
- International Business
- Management
- +26 subjects
Education & Certification
- The University of Texas at Tyler - Bachelor of Science, Finance
- DeVry University's Keller Graduate School of Management-Georgia - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Personal Finance
- Professional Certifications
- Trigonometry
- +29 subjects
Shamila: Victoria CPA course instructor
...is with in the financial and audit divisions of American Express, Deloitte & Company in London and New York City, and for the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning in Nairobi, Kenya. Besides teaching, I have engaged in several outreach programs as part of my role as a member on various non-profit Boards and the...
Education & Certification
- London School of Economics - Bachelor of Science, Economics
- McGill University - Masters in Business Administration, Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Business
- High School Accounting
- ISEE- Middle Level
- +11 subjects
Tina: Victoria CPA course instructor
...am a CPA and hold a Master's of Business Administration and a Master's of Education in Instructional Leadership. I am a full time Finance Director for a local government entity and an owner/operator of my own tax prep business (individual and small business owners). I enjoy using real life examples and meaningful methods to help...
Education & Certification
- Northwestern University - Bachelor in Arts, Accounting
- University of Illinois at Chicago - Masters in Education, Educational, Instructional, and Curriculum Supervision
- Webster University - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Accounting
- UK A Level Accounting
- UK A Level
- +20 subjects
Rubiela: Victoria CPA course instructor
...am a CPA 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...
Education & Certification
- University of Bridgeport - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- University of Miami - Masters in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Spanish 3
- Conversational Spanish
- AP Spanish Language & Culture
- +25 subjects
Daniel: Victoria CPA course instructor
...an accounting and finance degree in December. I have always had a passion for teaching and have tutored in subjects ranging from Calculus to SAT prep. However, as a UNF tutor and SI, I primarily assisted students with accounting classes. From high school accounting to upper level college courses, I am extremely comfortable with the...
Education & Certification
- University of North Florida - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Professional Certifications
- College Accounting
- ACT Reading
- +27 subjects
Noah: Victoria CPA course instructor
...a substitute teacher and senior auditor. I received my Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting and my MBA from Mount Saint Mary College, and I currently hold an active CPA license. My education and professional certifications have equipped me with strong analytical and communication skills. As a senior auditor, I developed a keen attention to...
Education & Certification
- Mount Saint Mary College - Master's/Graduate, Business Administration
- Mount Saint Mary College - Bachelor's, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Productivity
- Math Substitute
- CPA REG - CPA Regulation
- +20 subjects
Education & Certification
- Morgan State University - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- Morgan State University - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- College Accounting
- Intermediate Accounting
- College Computer Science
- +18 subjects
Jennifer: Victoria CPA course instructor
...that reach out for my help. My major is accounting, so I work with algebraic problems on a daily basis. I have taken College Algebra as well as numerous statistics courses that have given me the knowledge to show others how to solve problems. I have also tutored pre-algebra and algebra to both high school...
Education & Certification
- University of Baltimore - Current Undergrad, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Microsoft Excel
- High School Accounting
- Accounting
- +42 subjects
Danielle: Victoria CPA course instructor
...in 2019, and in 2020 I obtained a Master's of Accountancy degree. During my Master's year, I worked for Auburn University's Athletic Department tutoring athletes in accounting courses. I tutored approximately 20 hours/week while maintaining full-time student status. I loved tutoring students in Accounting, which is historically a difficult subject. When they would have their...
Education & Certification
- Auburn University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
- Auburn University - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Financial Accounting
- CPA BEC - CPA Business Environment and Concepts
- Professional Certifications
- +12 subjects
Michael: Victoria CPA course instructor
...enjoy helping students learn accounting and how to think critically. My method for teaching students begins with assessing where the student is at in their understanding of the material. Once I have a good understanding of this, I help students with any and all problems they have. I also implement multiple teaching methods to ensure...
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- University of Florida - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- High School Accounting
- CPA BEC - CPA Business Environment and Concepts
- College Business
- +16 subjects
Nabil: Victoria CPA course instructor
...REG sections of the CPA exam. I came to this country 6 years ago and I had to repeat 4 years of college all over again but in different language. Hence, my native language is Arabic and I have an accent. I have been tutoring accounting since 2018, I started helping my friends and then...
Education & Certification
- University of North Florida - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Advanced Accounting
- Other
- Study Skills and Organization
- +19 subjects
Frank: Victoria CPA course instructor
...a mentor and trainer for PwC PricewaterhouseCoopers and for many Project teams I am always learning. My experience includes managing projects and training my teams in the US and in Europe (for 5 years) for financial and IT systems for many SAP and other ERP systems certified as PMP, CPA, CISA, CSM Scrum Master for...
Education & Certification
- University of Houston - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- PMP
- College Accounting
- Finance
- +17 subjects
Rochelle: Victoria CPA course instructor
...Now just to keep everyone on their toes, I also can tutor Italian. My second bachelors degree is in Italian Language and Literature and have spent 3 months studying abroad in Ferrara, where I lived with a host family. My host family did not speak a word of English (and to this day still do...
Education & Certification
- University of Rhode Island - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Managerial Accounting
- AP Microeconomics
- Microeconomics
- +24 subjects