One of the biggest challenges CPA candidates face is not understanding what to study, but understanding how long preparation realistically takes and how to structure that time in a way that works with real-life commitments.
Many CPA exam study plans fail because they:
- assume unlimited availability
- ignore work and personal responsibilities
- rely on rigid schedules
- focus only on content coverage, not exam execution
This guide provides a realistic, flexible CPA exam study plan, designed for:
- working professionals
- full-time students
- first-time and repeat candidates
- candidates using online CPA tutoring for additional support
The goal is not speed.
The goal is consistent progress, retention, and exam-day readiness.
Start With Reality, Not Motivation
Before choosing a CPA exam timeline, candidates should honestly assess:
- how many hours per week they can consistently study
- work schedule and mental fatigue
- strength of accounting fundamentals
- whether they are studying independently or with guidance
- which discipline section they plan to take
Overestimating available time is one of the most common planning mistakes.
A realistic study plan is built around sustainability, not motivation spikes.
CPA Exam Structure (Why It Affects Your Study Plan)
Every CPA candidate must pass four sections:
Required Core Sections
- FAR – Financial Accounting and Reporting
- AUD – Auditing and Attestation
- REG – Regulation
Discipline Section (Choose ONE)
- BAR – Business Analysis and Reporting
- ISC – Information Systems and Controls
- TCP – Tax Compliance and Planning
While all candidates earn the same CPA license, the discipline choice can influence:
- preparation focus
- study effort distribution
- overall timeline comfort
A well-designed study plan accounts for this early.
Choosing the Right CPA Exam Timeline
There is no universal CPA exam timeline.
Different candidates progress successfully at different paces.
Below are three commonly used timelines, explained so you can understand what each typically looks like, not which one you “should” choose.
6-Month CPA Exam Study Timeline
A six-month timeline is often considered by candidates who:
- have significant daily study availability
- are not working full-time
- prefer an intensive study approach
- have a strong academic foundation
In this timeline, candidates typically:
- focus on one section at a time
- study multiple hours per day
- move through material efficiently
- rely on careful pacing due to limited buffer time
This approach requires regular self-checks and adjustments as preparation progresses.
9-Month CPA Exam Study Timeline
A nine-month timeline is commonly chosen by candidates who:
- work full-time or near full-time
- can maintain steady weekly study hours
- want balance between progress and flexibility
In this approach, candidates usually:
- spend adequate time on each section
- build in natural review cycles
- adjust pacing during busy work periods
Many candidates find this timeline aligns well with professional responsibilities.
12-Month CPA Exam Study Timeline
A twelve-month timeline is often selected by candidates who:
- have demanding schedules
- are returning to study after a break
- prefer a steady, lower-pressure pace
Candidates following this timeline often:
- study fewer hours per week
- revisit topics multiple times
- focus on long-term retention
- prioritize consistency over speed
This approach emphasizes sustainability.
How CPA Exam Sections Fit Into Any Timeline
All timelines must account for:
- FAR
- AUD
- REG
- one discipline section
The order in which candidates take these sections varies.
Some candidates:
- begin with a familiar section
- start with the section requiring the most preparation
- align sections with work experience
There is no universally correct order.
What matters is that the plan:
- fits the candidate’s background
- allows sufficient review time
- remains flexible as performance evolves
Weekly Execution Matters More Than the Total Timeline
Regardless of whether a candidate follows a 6-, 9-, or 12-month plan, success depends heavily on weekly execution.
Effective weekly preparation includes:
- concept learning
- multiple-choice practice
- task-based simulation practice
- review of mistakes and weak areas
Studying without reviewing errors often leads to repeated mistakes.
How Time Management Fits Into a CPA Exam Study Plan
A CPA exam study plan should prepare candidates not only for content, but also for how the exam functions on test day.
Each CPA exam section is four hours long and divided into multiple parts called testlets.
Early testlets typically include multiple-choice questions, while later testlets focus on task-based simulations.
Understanding this structure during preparation helps candidates:
- practice pacing
- avoid spending too much time early in the exam
- remain calm during simulations
Time awareness is a skill developed during preparation, not something to figure out on exam day.
Practicing Exam-Day Execution During Preparation
Successful candidates often include:
- timed MCQ practice
- full simulation walkthroughs
- mock exams under realistic conditions
This helps build:
- mental endurance
- confidence under time pressure
- familiarity with exam flow
Preparation becomes more effective when study plans reflect real exam conditions.
Mental and Physical Readiness Are Part of the Plan
Long study hours and four-hour exams require stamina.
A realistic CPA exam study plan also considers:
- mental focus
- stress management
- sleep and physical health
- exam-day logistics
Candidates who plan ahead tend to approach exam day with greater clarity and confidence.
Where Online CPA Tutoring Fits Naturally
An online CPA tutor does not replace a study plan.
They help refine and personalize it.
Online CPA tutoring can support candidates by:
- helping choose a realistic timeline
- adjusting pacing when challenges arise
- identifying time drains in MCQs or simulations
- improving exam execution strategies
- providing accountability and structure
Many candidates use tutoring as a support system rather than a shortcut.
How Andrew Katz Supports CPA Candidates Through Their Study Plan
Andrew Katz CPA Tutoring works with candidates to bring clarity and structure to their CPA exam preparation.
Andrew helps candidates:
- evaluate existing study plans
- align timelines with real-life schedules
- focus on high-impact areas
- practice simulation and pacing strategies
- adjust plans as progress develops
The focus is not rigid scheduling, but finding a rhythm that works for each individual.
Signs a CPA Study Plan May Need Adjustment
Candidates often benefit from guidance if:
- they consistently fall behind
- mock scores do not improve
- simulations feel overwhelming
- study sessions feel unfocused
These are planning challenges, not ability issues.
Final Thoughts
There is no perfect CPA exam study timeline.
The most effective plan is one that:
- matches your availability
- allows flexibility
- includes review and buffer time
- prepares you for both content and execution
Most CPA candidates struggle not because they lack effort, but because their plan does not reflect reality.
With a well-structured timeline and thoughtful guidance, the CPA exam becomes manageable, predictable, and far less stressful.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How many hours per week should I study for the CPA exam?
Most candidates study between 10 and 25 hours per week.
Working professionals typically study 10–15 hours weekly, while candidates with more availability may study 20–30 hours per week.
Consistency matters more than studying long hours occasionally.
What is the best CPA exam study plan for working professionals?
The best CPA exam study plan for working professionals is one that:
- uses realistic weekly goals
- prioritizes high-impact topics
- includes regular review
- allows flexibility during busy work periods
Many working professionals benefit from structured guidance to keep preparation efficient and manageable.
Is online CPA tutoring effective?
Yes, online CPA tutoring is highly effective when it is structured and personalized.
It allows candidates to receive one-on-one support, practice simulations using screen sharing, and adjust study plans without location constraints.
Can an online CPA tutor help me create a study plan?
Yes. An experienced online CPA tutor can help you:
- assess your strengths and weaknesses
- choose a realistic timeline
- prioritize exam-tested topics
- adjust your plan as performance changes
Andrew Katz Tutoring works with candidates to build personalized CPA study plans that fit real work and life schedules.
What is the best order to take CPA exam sections?
There is no single best order for taking CPA exam sections.
Some candidates start with FAR, while others begin with the section that best matches their background or confidence level.
The right order depends on experience, study time, and comfort with the material.
How do I choose the right CPA discipline section?
Candidates must choose one discipline section: BAR, ISC, or TCP.
The right choice depends on:
- academic background
- work experience
- career interests
- comfort with technical material
Andrew Katz often helps candidates evaluate their background and choose a discipline that aligns with their strengths and study timeline.
Why do many CPA candidates fail even after studying for months?
Many CPA candidates fail because of:
- unrealistic study plans
- weak simulation strategy
- poor time management
- lack of feedback on mistakes
These are planning and execution issues, not intelligence issues. Structured guidance can help identify and correct them early.
Should I get CPA tutoring if I already have a review course?
Yes. CPA tutoring does not replace a review course.
It helps candidates:
- use their course more effectively
- focus on weak areas
- improve exam technique
- avoid over-studying
Andrew Katz Tutoring frequently works alongside popular CPA review courses to optimize preparation.
How can Andrew Katz help me pass the CPA exam faster?
Andrew Katz Tutoring helps CPA candidates by:
- creating realistic, personalized study plans
- improving MCQ and simulation strategy
- adjusting timelines based on progress
- providing consistent one-on-one support
The focus is on clarity, efficiency, and execution, not generic schedules.