No, becoming a CPA isn't about advanced math; it's more about financial concepts, critical thinking, and using technology for basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, %, ratios). While you need strong numerical skills for analysis, reporting, and understanding financial statements, accounting software handles complex calculations, shifting the focus to interpretation, problem-solving, and attention to detail rather than high-level calculus or advanced equations.
The FAR section of the CPA Exam is hard because it's the most comprehensive of the 4 exam sections, and it has a lot of math questions that are mentally taxing to get through. It has the lowest pass rate of all 4 exam sections and is considered the hardest CPA Exam section.
No - it's not math heavy. If you know how to add, subtract, multiply, divide using 10 key and Excel, you should be fine.
A fundamental understanding of mathematical concepts is still essential in accounting. Accountants need to be proficient in basic arithmetic, algebra, and statistics to analyze financial data, prepare reports, and ensure accuracy in their work.
The Top 10 Cons of Being an Accountant
The overall pass rate of the CPA Exam hovers around 50%, but how many people pass all four sections—including three core and one discipline—on the first try? About 20%. Around 1 in 2 people will pass a specific section of the exam, and about 1 in 5 will pass each section on their first try.
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 AICPA has reported CPA Exam pass rates since 2006, and for 16 years, the cumulative average pass rate has improved and now fluctuates between 45% and 60%. The cumulative average CPA Exam pass rate for 2023 dropped a little as a result of poor candidate performance on the BEC section in the last quarter of 2023.
The CPA credential remains a cornerstone of the profession, but new data indicate its prominence is steadily declining. Between 2020 and 2024, the average percentage of staff holding CPA licenses across all firms dropped from 56.0 percent to 48.4 percent.
The 150-hour requirement is seen as a barrier to entry. Accounting is perceived as boring. Compensation is lower than for other majors such as finance and technology. A lack of diversity seems apparent.
Con: Accounting Can Be Stressful at Times
Accountants are under high “stress during busy seasons, especially during tax season, when the hours can be very long,” says Dr. Machuca. Despite the benefits, an accounting career often brings tight deadlines, long hours, and high volumes of work during the annual tax season.
Will AI replace accountants? Not entirely—but it will change accounting. Firms that embrace AI and technology will attract forward-thinking clients and top talent. Accountants who pair their expertise with AI tools will stay ahead of the curve.
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.
Strong financial analysis, critical thinking, and financial software skills are important for success in this field. Adaptability is key due to constant changes in accounting, such as new standards, technologies, and client interaction platforms. Attention to detail is also vital for accurate recordkeeping.