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!
Shane: CPA course instructor
...GA. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about accounting and math. While a grad student, I was a TA. All students that visited me in office hours received a higher score on their second exam than on their first exam. I have always said accounting is like a foreign language, and once you have a solid foundation, you can apply it everywhere. I have a passion for teaching, and...
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
- AP Macroeconomics
- +61 subjects
Jonathan: CPA course instructor
...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 FAR-93, AUD-90, BEC-95, REG-94) puts me in a unique position to break complicated accounting subjects into their most basic components. Most of all I am genuinely passionate about helping others succeed!
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
- ACT Reading
- ACT
- Professional Certifications
- +21 subjects
Valerie: CPA course instructor
...a way to further explain the concepts. I am very patient because I believe that each student can attain the knowledge at his/her own pace. Therefore, I like to encourage, motivate my students, and show that learning very fun! In my spare time, I enjoy reading various topics on Jesus, self-improvement, history, financial literacy, biographies, etc. I am passionate about traveling and embracing myself in different cultural experiences around the world. I love to exercise and...
Education & Certification
- Hampton University - Bachelor of Science, Business Administration and Management
- Hampton University - Masters in Business Administration, MBA
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7
- Project Management/PMP
- Middle School
- +133 subjects
Benard: CPA course instructor
I am a graduate of the University of Akron in Ohio where I received my Bachelor of Science in Accounting. My career includes working in public and private accounting and auditing, and governmental auditing. I am passionate about learning and sharing my experience. I believe that earning certifications during my career show competency in those areas. Outside of work, I enjoy fishing, auto mechanics, and developing a farm business.
Education & Certification
- University of Akron Main Campus - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CIA - Certified Internal Auditor
- CPA BEC - CPA Business Environment and Concepts
- Business
- +9 subjects
George: CPA course instructor
...public accounting firms, the oil field services industry, and oil and gas exploration and production. I am relentless in pursuit of personal excellence, including instructing at a high level. I strive to convey difficult concepts to students in an easily digestible manner. I have experience presenting accounting concepts at CPA conferences and to my colleagues at my current employer. I see teaching as a collaborative process, so let's solve tough problems together and learn a...
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
- College Accounting
- Economics
- AP Microeconomics
- +19 subjects
Rolika: CPA course instructor
...complex concepts in accounting, taxation, and even technical subjects related to engineering. My teaching philosophy centers on clarity, patience, and real-world application, ensuring that lessons are not only understandable but also relevant. Whether you're struggling with foundational principles or preparing for exams and professional certifications, I tailor each session to fit your individual needs and learning style. My goal is to build your confidence, deepen your understanding, and equip you with skills that extend beyond...
Education & Certification
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Productivity
- Business
- SAT
- +47 subjects
Andrea: CPA course instructor
...classes. As a professional, I trained small to large groups on such topics as IT, operational, and process audits, audit work papers, fraud risk management, ethics and compliance hotlines, code of business conduct, and how to plan, organize. lead, write a report for, and wrap-up audits. As a parent, I tutored my own child in high school essay writing, personal finance, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point, and accounting fundamentals. She did very well and...
Education & Certification
- Berry College - Bachelor in Arts, Accounting
- Berry College - Master of Arts, Business, General
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Professional Certifications
- Algebra 2
- UK A Level
- +25 subjects
Hanan: CPA course instructor
...over 20 years of tutoring experience. Throughout high school and college, I served as a peer tutor for math and science. In 2005, I served as a volunteer tutor for the Women's Center of Jacksonville Expanded Horizons program and I worked with women from various backgrounds who had dropped out of school and were pursuing their GEDs. In 2008, I founded Innovative T.U.T.O.R.S. LLC and we served over 1,100 students throughout the State of FL...
Education & Certification
- Nova Southeastern University - Master's/Graduate, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CPA REG - CPA Regulation
- Professional Certifications
- CPA BEC - CPA Business Environment and Concepts
- +2 subjects
Education & Certification
- University of Massachusetts-Boston - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- Nichols College - Masters in Business Administration, Human Resources Development
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Accounting
- Financial Accounting
- Business
- +24 subjects
Amy: CPA course instructor
...students how it all comes together! I have been a CPA since 2001 with over 20 years of teaching/public accounting/industry experience combined. The areas I am most experienced in are Financial/Managerial/Auditing/Non-profit. I also have a Southern Accent if that might bother anyone or could potentially cause a problem for foreign students. I try to enunciate and speak slowly so you can absorb what I am saying but I will still pronounce things a little differently...
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- CMA - Certified Management Accountant
- Economics
- +10 subjects
Andy: CPA course instructor
I received my PhD and Masters in Accounting from Binghamton University. I am have been teaching accounting at the college level for over 20 years. I am a Certified Management Accountant (CMA). I love the moment when the "light bulb" lights up in a student's head and they understand a concept they had trouble with. In addition to accounting, I can tutor in statistics, geometry, and most areas of business.
Education & Certification
- Bucknell University - Bachelor of Accountancy, Accounting
- SUNY at Binghamton - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- SEE - Special Enrollment Exam
- CMA - Certified Management Accountant
- Business Statistics
- +42 subjects
Hunter: CPA course instructor
...subjects, but I am most passionate about Math, Accounting, Finance, and Economics as I believe these subjects are fundamental in our lives. I am results driven and my structured approach to learning has helped my students become more confident in difficult subjects and perform better in class. I firmly believe education is a life-long journey and my goal is to inspire my students to not only study to ace an upcoming exam but to aspire...
Education & Certification
- The Texas A&M University System Office - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
- The Texas A&M University System Office - Master of Science, Finance
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Exam IFM - Investment and Financial Markets
- Series 7 - General Securities Representative Exam (Stockbroker)
- NMLS - Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System
- +74 subjects
Michael: CPA course instructor
I 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 each student understands the material.
Education & Certification
- University of Florida - Bachelor of Science, Accounting
- University of Florida - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- High School Accounting
- Technology and Coding
- CPA AUD - CPA Attestation and Auditing
- +16 subjects
Abby: CPA course instructor
...are my wins, and your losses are my losses. While I have tutored in a variety of subjects at all ages, I am most passionate about sharing my enthusiasm for accounting. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing this subject matter finally click for students. I can't wait to meet you and hope that accounting can eventually bring you joy too- although that may be a long shot ;). My interests: - All business subjects,...
Education & Certification
- Mercer University - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- NMLS - Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System
- AACN - American Association of Colleges of Nursing
- Algebra
- +14 subjects
Rasem: CPA course instructor
...myself, and I know what it takes to pass. My tutoring style is patient, clear, and focused on making complex topics easy to understand. I use simple explanations, practical examples, and proven strategies to help you feel confident and prepared. Whether you need help with FAR, AUD, REG, or BEC, I'll guide you step-by-step so you can master the material and succeed on exam day. Let's work together to turn your CPA goals into a...
Education & Certification
- American University - Bachelor's, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CPA REG - CPA Regulation
- Professional Certifications
- CPA FAR - CPA Financial Accounting and Reporting
- +2 subjects
James: CPA course instructor
...that everyone obtains the knowledge base they seek. Each and everyone of us needs to continue to learn and in a manner that we can comprehend the subject matter with ease. I work to make sure that the learning technique and learning level is met to master their subject. I have instructed students for over 8 years in the educational setting and over 40 years in business itself. In everything I have done and will...
Education & Certification
- East Texas State University - Bachelor in Business Administration, Accounting
- University of Phoenix-Phoenix-Hohokam Campus - Masters in Business Administration, International Business
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Business Ethics
- Academic Coaching
- College Business
- +20 subjects
Michael: CPA course instructor
...at JPMorgan Asset Management, working in Real Estate Private Equity. I also have 6 years of experience working in public accounting where I served clients in private equity, hedge funds, private credit, commodity trading and real estate. I attended Sacred Heart University where I received a Bachelors degree in Accounting and Finance and a Master of Science in Accounting. Lastly, I am a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the New...
Education & Certification
- Sacred Heart University - Bachelor of Science, Accounting and Finance
- Sacred Heart University - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Technology and Coding
- Managerial Accounting
- Quickbooks
- +19 subjects
Gregory: CPA course instructor
I am an accounting tutor with both Masters and Bachelors degrees; I have passed all four parts of the CPA exam.... My teaching philosophy is to try and break down the material into small and simple digestible parts. I have found that this works best with students, and it builds their confidence as well, because it shows them that they know more than they think they do.
Education & Certification
- St John's University-New York - Bachelors, Accounting
- DeVry College of New York's Keller Graduate School of Management - Masters, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Series 7
- Macroeconomics
- Finance
- +15 subjects
Desrae: CPA course instructor
...of the University of Colorado Denver. I received my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Accounting. Since graduation, I have worked extensively in the accounting and business realm as a CPA. Accounting is a difficult subject to grasp, but it is my mission to help students understand and hone their accounting skills. My tutoring philosophy is to be as patient as possible and break down difficult concepts in such a way as to make them less...
Education & Certification
- University of Colorado Denver - Bachelor in Business Administration, Business Administration and Management
- University of Colorado Denver - Master of Science, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- CPA BEC - CPA Business Environment and Concepts
- Economics
- Macroeconomics
- +18 subjects
Karen: CPA course instructor
...I got a bachelor's degree in accounting from Nigeria and a Master's of Science degree in Accounting from the Quinlan School of Business, Loyola University, Chicago. I have the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and Illinois Public Adjuster (ILPA) designation and keep current of recent development in our fields through Continuing Professional Education. So, I am involved in lifelong learning. Being a CPA, I can teach Taxation, Basics of cybersecurity, Business Environment...
Education & Certification
- Loyola University-Chicago - Masters in Business Administration, Accounting
Subject Expertise
- CPA
- Accounting
- College Accounting
- Business Ethics
- +8 subjects