Anyone else having a hard time passing the CPA exam? Does it make sense to take time off to try to pass it?

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Also, USE NINJA !!! You will not regret it!! Becker/Roger/ the others cover toooo much. Ninja gets straight to the point. It’s the modern way to study for the CPA, is what I say 😌

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I don't remember exactly, but I was studying during busy season, so I went the abridged route (ie. only read the outlines, did problems and took lots of notes). I probably spent about 3 weeks.

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OP, if reading through the comments above should teach you anything, it is that there will be people out there who choose to believe that:

1. Things should be just as difficult for others as it was for them;
2. The road to success looks the same for everyone; and,
3. Taking time off means you’re not motivated enough.

All are wrong.

While it’s the reality that some people must juggle having a family, working 50+ hours a week, and studying at the same time, that’s not everyone’s reality.

OP, you will very quickly realize that not everyone around you will have your best interest in mind. Be wise who you allow to speak into and influence your life.

Getting your designation and those letters beside your name is very important because it is not only necessary to stay in PA, but it will open doors, if you decide to leave.

In the grand scheme of things, once you get your designation, no one will question how much time you took off to get it. No one will care. All that will matter is that you have it.

Part of being an adult is using your judgment and doing what you think is best, given the circumstances. Stay away from negative people both at the firm and outside. Stay focused, don’t get discouraged and keep at it! You can do it!! 🙋🏽‍♀️☺️

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Yes, take time off to study. It’s your future, so do what you have to do!

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I think lots of people will relate. The first time I took FAR, I got 37 😳👀. You can do it.

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Got FAR and BEC both on the first try, scored in the low 80s. Got 74 the first time I took REG, passed on the second try with a 78. AUD... got a 74 three times in a row and almost decided to try being homeless instead. Gave it one more shot and got a 95.

I think we can all agree that the scoring system feels random at its best, sadistic at its worst, and transparency is nonexistent. Hang in there buddy, may the odds be ever in your favor.

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Took 4 tries for me to pass far, 3 to pass reg, 2 to pass bec, and audit was the only one I passed on first try. It’s a tough exam especially if you can’t devote a lot of time to it. Everyone’s different and sometimes time off is what you need. Do whatever you think is best for you, whether that’s time off to study, or more studying after work / on weekends and no social life, etc.

likeuplifting

Yes, I’m having a terrible time, and I’m at the point where I can’t be promoted further until I pass, so added stress is not helping. I mentioned I was considering taking a leave to study and was met with mixed opinions from leadership, but they all agreed it was my choice and they would end up supporting whatever my plan was. I think I’m going to take 6-8 weeks off late summer/early fall and get through REG and BEC. I had AUD done, so will just leave FAR for after busy season.

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What? That’s ridiculous! I think it shows strength and determination to take unpaid leave to further your career.

So as long as I don’t work with tax director, I should be fine. Thanks everyone!

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TD1, so you deem it weak when those around you don’t want to tolerate rude behaviour? As per my earlier comment, you can give your two cents but exercise caution in how you do so. That’s important.

If you’re insulting / verbally abusive to your staff and then proceed to say that they are “weak” for getting emotional, not tolerating it and then reporting it to HR, that’s wrong.

People need to realize that they’re being paid to work, not tolerate any form of bullying, intimidation or insult (ie being called weak for not putting up with it or for showing any form of emotion). No one is indispensable and everyone can be replaced, even Senior Managers and Directors. Intimidation or bullying shouldn’t be tolerated in any way. I’m sure most people will agree about that and HR certainly will.

That’s all.

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Took me three tries to pass Reg back when I took it. Keep at it!

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Find an approach that works for you. I was consistently in the high 60’s and low 70’s range and couldn’t get over the hump. I waited two years, came back with a new approach (not more time just new approach), and went 4 for 4 with all scores in the 80’s.

I went solely with multiple choice and only read when there was an area I didn’t grasp. To each their own.

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I used Becker the first round and Gleim the second time. I just pulled the test bank for Gleim and rigged it so that it told me if i was right or wrong immediately after answering. This way I could immediately tell if I missed it, because I misread the question, didn’t know at the time (but now understood), or simply didn’t grasp the topic. It made studying much more efficient.

Yes take time off if you are able to! I took 4 weeks off and studied for FAR like it was my job and passed! Sometimes that’s the little extra boost you need. Don’t give up!

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Passed FAR after the 4th time. Almost gave up after the third attempt but glad I pushed through and found the strength to give it one more try. It’s tough but keep fighting and don’t give up. You’ll pass!! Good luck!

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I went on a flex schedule and left early everyday! It worked for me!!

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Are you in a position where you can go without pay for 6-8 weeks? If you can’t pass you aren’t studying enough. Bite the bullet and fully commit, don’t half ass it.

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Absolutely take the time off! My CPA journey has been a little unconventional, and I've been studying for this exam for almost 3 years now before finally accepting that I needed time off to get it done. I got this whole month off to take REG and BEC and my team fully supported it. Your team will support you too bc they know it's in everyone's best interest for you to pass your exams and promote.

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A manager of mine greatly struggled with them as well and missed promotion 4 years in a row due to not having it completed. He ended up taking the summer off to get them done and would tell he should not have waited to do it. If you are struggling and just can’t seem to get it then definitely worth your time to take a break

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Yes take time off it’s important letters you put behind your name and you deserve the time to study and pass.

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Definitely take time off. I'm taking time after busy season to take REG. I failed it already while working. So I'm taking the time to solely focus on it

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Absolutely take off time! You are given plenty of vacation time at the big four. I took off a week for REG and a week for FAR and I passed both. It’s incredibly difficult to find time to study when you’re working full time. Taking a week off will do you wonders!

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Same! I took a week off for FAR and AUD. Why spend 2 months studying if you can clear your schedule at the end for a good finish?

Id take as much time as necessary. If I had to quit to pass I would. Its a must have

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