Can I work while studying for the CPA Exam?

Asked by: Sunny Hamill  |  Last update: June 20, 2026
Score: 4.6/5 (10 votes)

You can successfully maintain your full-time job while studying for the CPA Exam. However, you need to plan carefully and work diligently to stick to your schedule.

Is a 75% on the CPA exam passing?

How Is the CPA Exam Scored? The Discipline sections (BAR, ISC, TCP) were introduced under the updated (2024) CPA Exam structure. Each section is scored on a scale of 0–99, with a score of 75 required to pass.

Is 2 months enough to study for CPA?

Students should take the CPA exams between 2-3 months. If using 2 months to study, this will provide room to retake 1-2 exams and still finish within 12 months. If a student takes 3 months per exam, then they will need to pass each exam on the first try to pass in 12 months.

What is the hardest CPA section to pass?

Statistically, BAR has the lowest pass rate at 40%, followed closely by FAR at 41%, making them the hardest to pass, while TCP has the highest pass rate at 76%. However, when CPA candidates were surveyed, FAR was overwhelmingly chosen as the most difficult by 63% of respondents, with AUD in second place at 24%.

Can I do a full-time job while studying?

You can absolutely be a student and have a full time job. I did it all throughout college and my 1st year working. You have to learn how to manage your time and make sure that you do not forget to also include some mental health time for yourself because as it can be stressful to manage a full load of school and work.

CPA Exam: How to Find CPA Study Time While Working Full Time

36 related questions found

What is the 3/2:1 rule in studying?

In a nutshell, the 3-2-1 Study method has three steps: Read a concept three times. Speak the concept two times (from memory) Write the concept one time (from memory)

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Is a CPA harder than a bar?

It's definitely harder than the BAR exam and maybe even some medical board exams. And it's nearly impossible to pass once you're a working professional.

Can I work while studying for the CPA?

You can successfully maintain your full-time job while studying for the CPA Exam. However, you need to plan carefully and work diligently to stick to your schedule.

Which is the 3 toughest exam in the world?

The top 5 toughest exams in the world are generally considered to be:

  • Gaokao (China)
  • IIT-JEE (India)
  • UPSC Civil Services Exam (India)
  • CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
  • USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination)

Can I pass CPA in 3 months?

You may wonder, can you really pass all four sections of the CPA exam in 3 months? The answer is yes, you can! While the preparation will be tedious, it's definitely doable. The first step is to sign up for your exam.

How long does the average person study for the CPA?

Depending on the Discipline you choose, you can expect your CPA Exam study time to be between 400 and 600 hours, or between 100 and 150 hours per section. But with a smart study strategy and the right materials, you can keep from getting overwhelmed while making sure you're ready to walk into the exam with confidence.

What is the CPA Exam pass rate?

2024 CPA Exam Pass Rates

The pass rates for AUD and FAR were around 46% and 41%, respectively. The discipline sections also yielded surprising results, with BAR at 41%, ISC at 56%, and TCP achieving an impressive 78% pass rate.

Are CPA exams curved?

Calculating your CPA Exam score

Scores are reported on a scale that ranges from 0 to 99. It's important to know that your total reported score does not represent a percentage correct, nor can you interpret it as such. Scores are not curved.

Is CPA harder than CA?

CPA vs CA Difficulty Level

CA is harder in terms of passing rates and time. The pass rate for CA Final is between 1% and 15%. Many students fail due to the vast syllabus and tough papers. CPA is not easy, but the pass rate for each paper is around 50%.

How many times can I fail the CPA?

How many times can you fail the Uniform CPA examination? There is no limit. You may fail and retake as many times as needed, as long as you complete all four within 18 months.

Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant?

Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant? It is possible, but labor market data suggests it is rare for accountants to earn such a lofty annual salary.

Is CPA still worth it in 2025?

Absolutely. While public accounting firms highly value CPA certification, corporate employers, government agencies, and non-profit organizations also prefer CPA-certified candidates for senior financial positions. The credential provides credibility and expertise valuable across all sectors.

What is the 3 month rule in a job?

Your first 90 days on the job are key to how well you acclimate to your new workplace. These first 3 months are when you stand the best chance of making a positive impression, and they set a firm foundation for you as you build your career.

What percent of people pass all 4 CPA exams first try?

I've always heard and regurgitated that only 20% of takers pass all four exams on the first try.

Do lawyers or CPAs make more money?

Key Takeaways

Lawyers typically earn more than accountants, especially right out of school. Both professions offer opportunities in public and private sectors. Becoming a CPA involves specialized study and a state exam, but it's not always required.

Is becoming a CPA a big deal?

Reason #1 to Become a CPA – Prestige in the Profession

The CPA credential alone will separate you from non-CPAs with well-earned knowledge and expertise. By completing years of academic training, rigorous testing, and extensive work experience, CPAs are considered the gold standard of accounting.

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