subject: Cpa Exam Preparations [print this page] Questions about Applying to Sit CPA Exam Preparations: There are two separate categories of CPA Exam Preparations: Study Review Materials: See "CPA Exam Preparations: CPA Exam Review Materials." Steps to complete the administrative application process: While the concept of study materials is relatively easy to comprehend (buy or borrow a study kit and actually delve into it), the application process is a road loaded with administrative landmines. One writer stated that it took him seven months just to go through this process of getting approved to sit for the exam. Heads up and be careful that you do everything completely. This is the first in a series of articles about the application process, covering what you need to do prior to running through the door of the testing center.
First, select the jurisdiction in which you would like to sit for the exam. Do you have questions about the documents needed during submission, the CPA Exam application process itself the time-line of expected actions during application the fees to be paid and to whom, or eligibility requirements for that jurisdiction? Then you should contact that state Board of Accountancy (or the agency representing that Board) in which wish to apply to sit for the CPA Exam. The state Board of Accountancy website will tell you to whom you need to address your questions.
Completing the Application to Sit
While there are two separate actions within the concept of CPA Exam Preparations, Study Materials (see "CPA Exam Preparations: Study Materials") and Steps to complete the administrative application process, it is applying which takes more planning. This is Part 2 in a series. After you get your application questions answered, send in your completed application, supporting documents and the two application fees for applying to sit in that jurisdiction and for sitting for that specific section (e.g., BEC or REG).
Pay attention to these specifics: Who is applying? As silly as it may seem, people have been turned away from a testing center because they used a nickname on the application-and this didn't match their driver's license. Suggestion: Look at the two pieces of ID you will present on exam day and use that name on your application.
Where do I send the application? Yes, you want to sit for the exam in Connecticut but did you know that you will send your application to Nashville? Sending your application to the wrong location wastes your valuable time. Read the state Board of Accountancy website. If you are not sure, call and ask.
What do I send? Read the fee schedule carefully. In California, there is a first time sitting fee of $145.00 and there is a fee of $180.95 to sit for BEC and $230.55 for AUD (as of 4/15/2010). Therefore, send in the right fee for the right section.
Why do they want to see my college transcripts? To prove you graduated and took the classes required by that state. For example, if you don't have 24 semester units of accounting and 24 semester units of business-related subjects, you can't sit for the exam in California. If you were educated outside the U.S., the state board will probably ask that you have your transcript evaluated for academic rigor and equivalency. Contact Leslie-Ann Rogers (la@cpaexcel.com) for more information for international students.
How do I request Special Accommodations? You need to request any Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) special accommodations for mental or physical challenge at the time you apply to sit for the exam. Certain test centers are equipped to make accommodations while others are not. The state board must approve all accommodations at specific testing locations. Ready to delve into your study materials to prepare for the CPA Exam? CPAexcel has more study materials than any other course!
