CPA Reviewed Podcast #85

- What is the CPA Exam Score Release?

- BEC overhead variances – an easy way to remember?

- Multiple choice question topics that aren’t discussed in CPA Review study materials?

- Studying out of order?

- REG – 2018 – Is this for CPA Test takers this year?

- Business Law 40% of Regulation MCQ?

- Taken 19 CPA Exams and doubting myself.

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Another71 Podcast #85

1. CPA CPE Requirements are (mostly) a waste of time and money

2. What is the CPA Exam Score Release?

3. BEC overhead variances - an easy way to remember?

4. Multiple choice question topics that aren’t discussed in study materials?

5. Studying out of order?

6. REG - 2018 - Is this for CPA Exam Test takers this year?

7. Business Law 40% of CPA Exam MCQ?

8. Taken 19 Exams and doubting myself.

Have a CPA Exam Study Question? Need Help Balancing Life and the CPA Exam?

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CPA Reviewed #84 - Is the CPA Exam Curved?

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https://youtu.be/SBzXG2tuNVc

Transcript: What is happening, everyone? Welcome back to another action-packed edition of CPA Reviewed, the official podcast of another71.com. As always, I am your humble host Jeff Elliott, a licensed CPA in the state of Kansas by the grace of God and to the chagrin of many. Happy whatever today is. Happy Wednesday to you. This is episode 84. So, yeah, I've done 84 of these. If you wanna be on the podcast, go to another71.com. Click on the upper nav. Ask Jeff, and it will appear in a future edition of the podcast. If you want to jump to the front of the line, you can become a NINJA Monthly member, and NINJA Monthly member get their questions answered first. All right.

First up is Ninja Ashley. When you study for an exam, was there a specific or target number of multiple choice questions that you completed per day? I'm looking for a specific number if you have one. I currently set up blocks of questions by section. There are four blocks. Each block contains six sections in various orders. I selected my block order based on which sections I am strongest in and which sections I need to strengthen my proficiency. Based on the book, based on the block I shared, you can see that regulation sections two and six are my weaker sections. I would love your thoughts on my current process to get through multiple-choice questions and any general feedback to base my questions on and how many questions I should complete each night. Okay. So, I don't have a set number of multiple choice questions that you should do per day; however, the AICPA has said that the average CPA candidate spends two minutes per question on the exam. So that's under exam conditions, and that's when you are ready to roll on exam day, so. If it takes you two minutes to do a question per, or on exam day, then let's say it's going to take you maybe three, three and a half, four minutes per section, per question while you study, because you're taking notes, you're looking up for each answer explanation, and so, so, if you can do three minutes per question, that is 20 questions per hour, if you study three to four hours per day, so that's, like, 60 to 80 questions per day. So, while you're in the MCQ phase, you're spending two to two and a half weeks on your nonstop MCQ, you can pretty much budget what you're going to do there. So let's say any given section has 1,500 multiple choice questions. Well, you can do the math there. You should be doing, so I guess you should be doing 60 questions per day minimum, but I know some people do a lot. So we used to have the NINJA Weekend Challenge where people would do like 500 questions in a weekend. So that's over like two days. So you can do a lot more than 60. But, so, 60 questions, 60 CPA exam questions per day should be your minimum.

Ninja Claude writes in, I have exactly 30 days left before I take FAR, my first section, and my studying is somewhat improving, and I'm feeling a little better. But I have a question about the exam itself. Is it true that they want a certain number of people to pass each time it is administered so they might actually curve the scores down if too many people do well? I really wanna get through this thing my first try, and any further nuggets or tidbits would be appreciated, especially the ones that would stop me from getting something like a 74. Okay, is the CPA exam curved? I don't know. That's been one of those conspiracy theories that have been around for as long as I have been in exam land, which is over 10 years, so. You know, when you look at the pass rates, they are like, for FAR, they're about 45, 47, 49%, pretty much every time. Does the AICPA curve them through the psychometric formulas? I don't know. Does that impact how you study? Not at all, and if you fail, does that give you license to blame the fact that you've been curved down? No, because in any given exam section, 50% pass, 50% fail, give or take, and you just need to study really hard, and you cannot control what outside variables are going against you, if at all, and I personally do not believe that they maintain a certain number, so. You can only control what you can do. So you can only control whether or not you get up early in the morning, study at lunch, study late at night, you follow the NINJA Study Planner, so you're a Ninja, so you have the NINJA Study Planner. You can only control if you decide to study bonds for an hour versus watching Netflix for an hour, which turns into three or four hours, and pretty soon, it's two in the morning, and you have to get up at 5:30, and oh, wait, you're not gonna get up at 5:30 'cause you're too tired, and you're going to sleep until seven, and brush your teeth and jump in the car to go to work. So, you can only control your own life and your own study processes. So, that's that. Now, as far as how to study FAR, follow the NINJA framework, use your NINJA Study Planner, and you'll be good to go.

Faruk writes in, dear sir or madam, I'd like to have some information on the CPA eligibility for the active ACCA members, which is chartered accountants, who are the equivalent to a UK Master's, according the ACCA letter of equivalence and having four years of international experience as an accountant. Okay, so here's the deal. The AICPA and the ACCA and NASBA and everyone got together, and they wanna make it easier for people who have international accounting licenses and US accounting licenses to be able to go into each other's respective countries and jurisdictions and be able to work, so. So here's the deal. This is kind of new. If you are a chartered accountant, then you need to pass the IQEX exam, the International Qualification Exam, and you need to then have two years of post-qualification experience. If you are a licensed CPA, then you just need to get qualified through whatever process it is. You don't have another exam to take. And you need to have two years of post-qualification work experience. The easiest way to get all of the information you need, go to nasba.org, and in the search bar, type ICAS, and that will give you all the info that you need.

Matt writes in, I'm using NINJA as a supplement with Becker. I'm feeling overwhelmed with the amount of material. I'm feeling like I don't have enough time to do all of the MCQ for each, for each, and it's stressing me out. I have read Another71 for tips, but I don't know if you would give me any useful advice or what may work the best. Okay, you're using NINJA as a supplement with Becker CPA Review, so I would watch all of your Becker lecture videos and take notes. Work all of the questions in their software. And then I would switch over to NINJA for the J, just rewrite it. I would rewrite the NINJA notes, and for your review, I would watch the NINJA Plus videos over your weak topics, and I would, in your NINJA MCQ, I would start working the software by topic, starting with your weakest area first and working backwards. And that's how I would use NINJA and Becker. Now, if this is a retake, and if you feel like you've seen all of the Becker questions, the multiple choice questions, then instead of working all of the Becker questions again, I would work the NINJA questions as your study software, and so that's how I would do it. So, yeah, don't feel, don't feel overwhelmed with the material. I mean, you know, FAR is hard, and it's the hardest exam, and that's okay, and everyone struggles with it. And it's the beast for a reason. But 50% of the people who walk in and pass it or take it, they pass it, so you'll be fine. So just follow, you're using NINJA, so follow the NINJA framework. Use your NINJA Study Planner. Get through all of the Becker lecture videos before you work any of the questions in the software, and just follow the NINJA framework, and you'll be just fine.

Antiqua writes in, do you think it's possible to pass the FAR exam with the Roger CPA Review Cram course only? All right, so, I saw this question in my email, and they also asked it in the forum. Okay, so your question is, do I think it's possible? Yes, I think it's possible. I think it's possible to pass the CPA exam doing only multiple choice. I think it's possible because people have done it. I think it's possible to pass the CPA exam or a section of the CPA exam using only the NINJA notes, because people have done it, and they wrote me and tell me that they did. And I do think it's possible to pass the FAR exam using only the Roger CPA Review Cram course only. Now, I'm probably the only CPA review course out there who would dare mention a competitor in a podcast. Like, everyone just pretends that everyone else exists except for their comparison tables on their website where they say how everyone else is horrible. But yeah, Roger, great instructor, great course. And can you pass with his FAR Cram only? Yeah. Is it a best practice? No, it's not, because you run the risk that you don't get all the multiple choice in. So if you have the Roger Cram, you know, marketing alert, maybe you get the NINJA Monthly as well, 'cause it's cheap, and you get everything else that you wouldn't get in the cram, notes, audio, MCQ, book, a full course video, video set. But yeah, you can, you can pass with any course under the sun. You can pass with any combination of materials that are out there, and you can pass with a Cram only. It's not a best practice, but just like people pass using outdated materials, it's not a best practice, but you can do it. But you should still get NINJA Monthly.

Omnia writes in, hello, Jeff. I have a BA in sociology, but all of my experience in accounting. I decided to take my career to the next level,

CPA Reviewed #83 - Trump Tax Law & ERM Impact on CPA Exam

In this CPA Exam Podcast, we discuss:

Auditing 8-Week Study PlanBEC COSO ERM Update - Big Deal?Trump Tax Law Impact on REGForward Rate vs Spot RateHow many CPA Exam MCQ should you do before exam day?...and much more...

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https://youtu.be/SVuty3srHVY

CPA Reviewed #82 - How to Survive a CPA Exam Score Release

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https://youtu.be/VKbr5c1Tj1Y

Intro – How to Survive CPA Exam Score Release

Larry - Jeff, I took the AUD exam and am currently waiting for the results. I wanted to seek advice on how to use the NINJA system along with Becker to greatly improve my potential pass rate. I have invested countless amounts of time and energy into the CPA exam and I would like nothing more than to complete FAR this year.

Parth - Thanks for the videos! I am interested in subscribing to NINJA for the monthly. But, before I do, I wanted to ask you something. I am currently taking my review courses with Becker. I have been studying for FAR and should be done with the material by next week. I mainly want to use Ninja as more of a supplemental option to review what I have learned so far. How do you think Ninja can help me with that? I read the study planning strategy, but I don't know how that would apply to me because I have already gone through much of the material with Becker. If you could please give me some guidance when you get a chance, I would appreciate that. Thanks! 

Elisa - If my AUD score expires on 4/30, can I take FAR on 4/30 and keep the credit or does it have to be by 4/29? I'm really pushing it, I know, but living abroad doesn't provide much flexibility. 

Also - I’ve listened to the ninja audios so many times that in my brain I was like “oh yeah, let me just throw this question over to Jeff because we’ve talked about all this accounting stuff so many times now.” 

Anyways, thanks for the response, and a big thanks for ninja! I recommend it to all my friends who are still torturing themselves paying for Becker and watching their videos. Ninja audio and ninja plus have been a delight to listen to and watch. Like really, who doesn't love Bob Monet? I’ve listened to him so many times I feel like y’all are my two accounting pals, well Bob is more like a quirky accounting uncle you want to make proud.

Antony - Hi Jeff! I'm going to start studying for my FAR exam using your NINJA monthly plan and I saw your post that it'll take about 6-7 weeks (20 hours each week) to have a good chance to pass the FAR exam using the NINJA Framework.

I made my 6-week schedule and I was wondering if you could let me know what you think of it. –

Week 1: read the Ninja bookWeek 2: MCQs and SIMSWeek 3: Review the wrong questionsWeek 4: rewrite Ninja NotesWeek 5: re-do MCQs and SimsWeek 6: final review

I'm sorry if my question is all over the place, but I hope that I can get your opinion on it. It'll be very helpful. 

Rachael - Maybe a secret question, but will you be offering any trial period memberships or sneak peaks to the new ninja monthly plan. Honestly I am not studying right now, but will be again soon. I am starting from no passed tests yet (within 7 pts) and had a concussion and two babies to recover from since my last test. Crossing fingers to study again in the fall! 

I have used ninja notes and a ninja book & test bank but always wanted to try the audio and other products.

Keep up the good work and the awesome products. You rock!!! And one day, I will Rock the CPA exam too!!

Lucy - My name is Lucy and I’m new to Ninja. I just looked through the NINJA Materials and the NINJA framework (in the notes) states that I should watch my CPA review videos first before anything.

By ”videos”, is it the ones from NINJA BLITZ or my Becker lecture videos? I relied on Becker to study for AUD but unfortunately did not pass, so now I’m confused regarding which studying method I should use for my retake, which is in 4 weeks.

Since my time is limited, would it be a bad idea to study solely Ninjia materials for my retake? Would you recommend me to rewatch Becker lectures and redo Becker MCQs + NINJA materials?


Additionally, in terms of NINJA study, would it be a good plan to first listen to the audios (without taking notes), then watch the BLITZ (while taking notes)?

Or visa-versa?

Sorry for shooting you with a bunch of questions at once, and thank you in advance!

Taylor - Hi Jeff! The score release yesterday left me on the "not happy" end of the spectrum. I got a 72 on my re-take for AUD.

The first time I took it I got a 63, which was in December 2017. At that point, I had just been using Gleim, but a friend recommended Ninja as a supplement.

So, I got the most basic Ninja package for AUD, where I used mostly the MCQ (and SIMS), notes, and flashcards. I studied for about 3 weeks, took the re-take in January, and fell short with the 72.

I have been studying for BEC and was planning on taking that one tomorrow, but decided to push it back until the first week of April. If I couldn't pass AUD studying full time for about 6 weeks altogether, then I shouldn't expect to pass BEC after only studying for about a month. 

Do you have any suggestions on how to "study better" when you've failed an exam twice? In summary, I mostly focused on re-reading my own handwritten notes, TONS of MCQ, and re-writing lots of my notes into more condensed blurbs, so to speak, to make it easier to memorize.

Talking with other CPA candidates, it seems like we all used a relatively similar studying strategy. However, they passed and I didn't. 

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! --(Although I wouldn't go back to studying for AUD again until after I take BEC)

Yazan - I received my CPA exams scores ( FAR & REG ) & I failed in them for the third time, I passed my first two sections ( AUD & BEC ) in 12/2016, the time is very close to losing everything. 

The sections that I have passed, my money & everything, there will be a delay in score in the next window as usual , and my credit end in 22/05/2018, I affected in score delay in two times in 2017 ( April & May window ) & 2018 Feb window now I want to ask you some questions & I hope that you answer me clearly: What I should do ? and will I have another chance or not ?

Why does the CPA designation seem impossible at times?

If I fail – will I lose everything?

Aastha – Here is my situation:

BEC - Passed, due for expiration 17th April 2018,
REG - 55, 60 (60 in Q1 2018),
AUDIT - Appeared in Q2 2018, 
FAR – NTS is pending

With this I would request you to help my 2 things:-

Firstly, how should I improve my REG score? I desperately need to clear all the exams in single go each time I sit. I know that sounds weird, but any suggestions would be appreciated. Since my BEC section is expiring in a month now, ill have one more exam to sit for. And even with BEC, I had to struggle. I got stuck at 72, 74 and then 75!
Really do not wish to see a similar pattern in future.

Erica - I find that it is taking me a really long time to go through each chapter and I don't feel as if I'm studying efficiently. I'm using Becker materials and am going through the steps of watching each lecture, doing the skills practice, reviewing the module and notecards, and then do multiple choice questions. I repeat this for every module in each chapter.

I was wondering if you had any suggestions on how to speed up my study time. I was considering going through all the lectures of a chapter in one go, and then going back and doing the skills practices and multiple choice questions for each one after.

I got the idea from the live online classes and thought maybe I should apply it to my independent study schedule. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

Daniel - I would like to know if you have a plan on how I can study with Ninja and Becker. I have Becker ( Studying for REG) now but I feel that some of the explanations they give are confusing. I would like to try another course so this monthly plan would be fantastic. I'm just afraid that it would confuse me more than it would help. Do you have any suggestions? I'm sure I'm not the first person that feels this way. In advance, Thank you for your time.

Emily - I have CPA Excel from a few years ago, and it's still active as I haven't really had time to hunker down and take the exams since I purchased it. 

Would I be adequately prepared if I were to switch exclusively to the NINJA plan? Or should I still try to continue to supplement with CPA Excel?

Michael - Jeff, when you and the ninjas talk about re-writing notes; do you mean “re-typing” or actually handwriting?

Psychological Science – writing by hand causes you to “think” about the material when you’re taking notes live during a lecture. Writing takes longer and gives you time to soak the information in as you write it – particularly if you’re taking long-hand notes and writing your “fact-nuggets”

Kevin - I might become a ninja. Are you truly a black belt? lol.

Sona - I am using Roger CPA Review and except 2 chapters I have done all chapters and MCQs of Roger. Now FAR is on 9th March, but I am really worried and losing my confidence because I think I will not be able to do the review in 7 days.

By tomorrow I will be finishing rest of my 2 chapters - Business combination and Governmental. I bought Ninja monthly for FAR it and it has around 1500+67 Sims. Would you please suggest me how to wrap up the material in 7 days and finally be confident on the exam day? 


My REG score is expiring on 14/4/18, before that, I have to pass FAR (74- 5/2016) and AUD (59 – 12/2017, 72 - 01/2018)
Please give me some tips and advice on what area to focus, exactly what to do in this situation. I don’t work, study every day from 9 in the morning to 10 pm (with hour breaks).

Sony - I am ninja student who has now passed all the 4 sections and is in the process of obtaining my license.

CPA Reviewed #81 - CPA Exam Task-Based Simulation Time Management

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Oren - I took Audit in May, and I don't think I did well. My score with REG is expiring on July 21st. I just found out that I will not receive the AUD score until August 16th! If I do not pass, I won't be able to take Audit again before REG expires. Will they extend my REG score? Thanks for your insight.

Nelly - Is the NINJA Audio the same as NINJA Notes? I'm am taking audit in 6 days, I have the notes but I am deciding whether or not to purchase the audio. Is it the same as the notes but spoken out loud?

Amanda - Do you have any insight on the new format of the FAR sims -- three different sections rather than just one? I am worried about not knowing the entire picture of the sims and spending too much time on the first one or two sets only to get to the last set and run out of time. Have you heard any details on the type of questions that will be in each section? For example, a research based question would only be in the final section?

Evonne - I have been out of school for 20 plus years but have taken the exam before. I am juggling kids and a 50 hour work week. I'm 51 years old and passing the CPA Exam is on my bucket list. Which exam should I start with?

Sean - I am currently working in the tax service of a Big 4 accounting firm. I started working in public accounting in January with two exam sections already passed. Now that I'm working, it just seems impossible to study effectively. Because I am learning new things on the job, I forget what I studied way too easily. But at the same time, what I learned on the job doesn't get retained well because I am studying for the exams. It's a vicious cycle, and I am going absolutely insane. What can I do to survive this intense time in my life?

Von - Why is there an impairment test for the intangible assets with "finite" lives? Don't we just amortize them?

Jennifer - I am trying to follow the NINJA framework using only NINJA materials, and I noticed that I am having a problem retaining the information. I am so focused on taking notes of what I feel is important in the "Notes" portion of the NINJA framework, that I am not retaining anything I am reading. I'm essentially rewriting the entire BEC book, because I feel like I can't pick out what the most important parts are. How do I take notes and make it through the entire book? I'm also a visual learner, so any advice would be appreciated.

gunyoung - Hey Jeff, I was very impressed with Ninja material. As an introduction, I'm a foreigner who came to the states about 5 years ago for college and now I'm working for one of the big four accounting firm. I bought my CPA materials (sponsored by the firm) when I was in college but didn't happen to study (only for BEC but received 74) before the new CPA came out. Then, since I'm in tax, I wanted to start studying for REG and while I was studying, I found out there was an expiration date for using my software.... Now I'm trying to find another way to pass it and my bet will probably be on you. I apologize for a long introduction. So I just wanted to ask if Ninja course if friendly for a foreigner as well. I like the way you make it Audio but would I understand it after reading the whole chapter? Also, I work and study.... and just want to ask you opinion how long it would take to study with your material until I take the exam? (or pass the exam - REG).

Tony - I have read forum comments, articles and reviews. Just wanted to know if Ninja would be able to prepare me for the new 2017 exams before purchasing. I plan on studying for 4 hours a day. Reading and listening to audio. Would you say to use ninja as a supplement or could it be a full review course? Thank you

Sarah - I was wondering if you had and advice on how to be successful in the Audit Simulations, specifically the simulations that call for searching the Authoritative Literature with keywords from the text provided? 

Tamara - Hi, can you please give some advice on how to tackle to review for the REG exam. I'm currently studying full time. Can you advise what timeframe is adequate to complete the review and also what materials are necessary.

Vaheen - Trying to study. And it isn't going well. I don't know why it's taking me so long to get through the material. And I need to review it. And this just sucks. How can I go faster and retain this stuff!

Sarah - Hi Jeff, I am so excited that I stumbled across your site while looking for CPA study materials. I started taking the exam a few years ago while I was pregnant and passed 1 section but I just couldn't bring myself to study after I had my baby and failed a couple sections before giving up. Fast forward 3 years and now I really want to do this. I had difficulty before because I felt like I HAD to get done with every single video (I'm a Checklist person and I needed to see "complete" next to each and every video/section) and just zoned out most the time. Now, thankfully I recognize that this is a horrible way to "study." I'm looking into buying piece-meal your books, audio, and MCQ. My question is, do you think this is sufficient material coverage to pass? And do you have TBS and the new DRS questions? I realized last time that the traditional "kit" of CPA review courses just doesn't work for me, so I want to purchase only what I need to pass.

Connor - Hey Jeff, Im new to ninja, but i have heard great things. I am having a lot of trouble studying for FAR. Nothing is sticking to memory, especially with leases, pensions etc. I am hitting the point of burnout and am extremely frustrated with how poorly I am performing on my mcq practice, as well as the fact that my frustration usually leads me to stop doing mcq all together. My test is in a week and a half, and I am completely stressed out and extremely worried now. What do you recommend?

Valeriya - NINJA MCQ - It is possible to practice MCQ offline?

Tim - Jeff, will you ever do a Ninja CMA Review? I used your ninja notes, audio, MCQs, and books to pass the CPA Exam. I'm currently using a review course for the CMA, but it sucks compared to the ninja products. I'm trying to adapt but it's so hard. The audio that came with the CMA review course I'm currently using sounds like a cyborg that couldn't find another job but to record audio for a CMA Review Course. And the other components of the course material is so boring.

Medina - I am currently studying for the CPA exam and I live in Denver CO. My question is "If I take the CPA exam in CO and get my license will I be able to transfer it to a different state? I might live in Atlanta but I am not sure yet? 

Joshua - So, I asked people I know, and I was really curious about what your opinion may be on this strategy? How do you tackle sims, for example, on my Practice Exams on BEC I kept getting 2 to complete in an hour. I felt like one was easier for me than the other. Do you do the easy one first or the hard one? Or what's a good strategy for timing, etc. Does that strategy match other things like MCQ's? Or the sections of the exam as a whole?

B.J. - Hey Jeff, I've got a month until my third attempt at FAR! I. Your opinion, how should I spend this month of studying? What would be the most advantageous course of action? I will be purchasing your FAR MCQ's again and hitting them hard as well as notes and more notes, and then some more. Any other tips or tactics?

Judy - I am currently studying, but cannot commit to studying 60 hours a week due to having a family and working full time. What would be your best advice for me from now to the 15th? Im only on module 3.

Ruben - Hi Jeff, keep it up man loving the podcast. Since I'm on a somewhat of a budget would you recommend your Audio or MCQ if you had to choose?

Live CPA Exam Courses + Earning CPE Credits - CPA Reviewed #80

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9K7nxVNN3ns

Brandon - I've been out of school for some time and would like to test my skills to see where I am with the knowledge needed to pass the CPA Exam. I think I need an assessment exam to let me know what to focus on. Do you have something or know something I can use?

Seth - I'm trying to select a CPA Exam Review Course. There seems to be only one course offering live CPA Review classes now, which i think will help me with structure, etc. But I've seen a lot of blogs complaining about the live classes and the price. What do you think of live classes, and are there other prep courses that you especially like?

Alfonso - I just graduated with a B.S in Accountancy and I have all of the requirements needed to take the CPA Exam in Arizona. I was wondering what steps I need to take in order to take the CPA Exam? From my knowledge I need to send in transcripts and an application. Can you please provide me with a better checklist?

Mika - I find it hard to review everything if all I have is a giant text book. I am looking for a good key points summary notes for my review times. I was wondering if I could get a sneak peak of your AUD review notes? Do you offer a preview?

Numbersqueen - My exam is in a few days. I'm really struggling with the hedges, derivatives, and future contracts. Mostly, knowing which rates to use to determine if there is a foreign gain or loss. Sometimes you use the spot rates, sometimes the 30 or 90 day rates. It's a bit confusing. Can you make this clearer? Thanks in advance.

Mohammad - I want to know when a CPE credit hour is earned? At the beginning of the course or at the end? Logic suggests it should be at the end of the course, but I to make sure.

Patrick - My AUD exam is coming soon, and I have a few questions pertaining to the revenue and purchases cycle. Can you explain remittance advice and what that is? I see remittance advice and get that confused with the purchases side.

CPA Exam Study Motivation with August 2017 CPA Exam Score Release - CPA Reviewed #79

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https://youtu.be/sfwHKbSHyXo

Holi - I am a recent college graduate going to work for a Big Four Accounting Firm in the fall. Because I have some time before then, I budgeted four months to take all four sections of the CPA. I started with the beast, and I studied for FAR. I really put in the time and took the exam last week. But I cannot shake the feeling that I failed and it's weighing heavily on me.

Because of the new exam format and changes, however, my score is being held for 10 weeks -- until mid-August. By then, I would have hopefully taken all four sections without knowing any of my scores. This is a terrible feeling because I am starting to become unmotivated without knowing if I am tracking score wise. And worse case I fail, I would have to restudy old material instead of it being fresh in my mind.

How do I stay motivated not knowing any scores? Should I take FAR again before I get my CPA Exam score back in Aug just because I think I failed -- and while it's still fresh in my mind? (What about the financial burden?)

Ed - I graduated college in 2006, took the summer off and then started studying. I took all 4 parts and failed.

Then I took auditing and FAR and passed. I could not pass BEC and Reg before losing credit. Two years had gone by and I gave up. Now I am looking to get back into the studying and passing the exam. For the four sections of the test, what order should I take them?

Priscilla - I am currently studying for REG using Roger CPA Review and I am a divorced/single mother with a 5yr old Princess. However, I am currently NOT working so I can completely focus on my CPA Exam. I am sitting for REG on May 30th, 2017 and I am currently on Section 5 Estates, Trusts & Gift Taxes out of 21 Sections.

How should I tackle the rest of my studying? I am nervous and believe it's way too much material to cover by May 30th, should I reschedule REG for July 2017?

(I graduated with my Accounting degree in 2008 and will be doing my MAcc once I am done studying for my CPA Exam).

Hany - I have a question for AUD. When an external auditor use the work of internal auditor. To whom does an internal auditor should report ?

Frank - Probably I'm not your typical CPA exam candidate. I'm in my late 30s I have a senior corporate finance position and have been a finance director in several countries. I have decided to take the CPA and in the past 4 months, I was able to pass AUD and BEC.

Currently, my time is flexible and sometimes I can study during the day.

I have been offered a senior position as a regional FD for an international market.

Likely this opportunity will disrupt my studies.

What would be your advice, take the new role or pass the 2 exams and then see what happens job wise? My AUD credit will expire in August 2018.

Daniel - I have 14 days to study for audit, unfortunately, kept delaying the exam due to work (internship), I am now free from work. Is it double to finish audit in 14, I have bought the ninja notes and was wondering if I should even watch the Becker videos or just do ninja notes and Becker MCQ.

Tracy - I am scheduled to take Reg on July 3rd, all CPA reviews say that first have of year tax is from 2016 info and second half is for 2017 year. So here I am thinking I am going to have to restudy in 3 days these changes! How familiar are you of this transition in the past with candidates along your journey? I know it shouldn't be major changes- mostly thresholds and stuff. however this is the CPA and I walked out of BEC thinking it was easy only to open the score to see a 75. So you can understand my concern :)

Also..... with these changes when will you be updating Ninja Notes (if you say July 1, I may cry:)) I hope to do a re-write about 2 weeks before and think it would be awesome if updates are released before to get familiar with the different but similar material.

Thanks for your response and keep up the great work! Your story is very inspiring!!!

Carol - Want to study for BEC using my Gleim materials as well as Ninja Audio. How do I approach that?

Abdi - I need to pass FAR, plain and simple haha. I took it in December and got a 68. I couldn't really study during busy season and out it off for a while. I have the exam scheduled for May 31st but I don't want to move on to the new Becker software. I like the format of my old book. I've also seen the Another71 video on content changes and there wasn't much of a change. Do you recommend sticking with my old book and notes and answering MCQ's and sims of the new Becker update? I also don't want to watch any of the lectures besides the governmental section.

Brooke - I need your professional advice on my CPA exam situation. I have taken REG twice and failed each time. I have scheduled to take AUD twice and never went to the exam. Now my study material has expired and I just don’t know what to do. I don’t want to sink a bunch of money into it again yet at the same time I really just want to get this passed and move on with life.

I would like to take REG by the end of May but I don’t know if that is reasonable. If not, then I am thinking REG at the beginning of July and AUD or BEC at the end of August; then AUD or BEC at the beginning of October and FAR at the end of November. What do you think about this? What are your opinions on the order of the tests?

Instead of sinking a bunch of money into study materials I was thinking about still using my Becker books in addition to using the Ninja notes and Ninja MCQs. What do you think about this approach? I know the exam changed in structure but my Becker books should still be accurate for the information covered.

Phillip - I don’t really have a question, but a thank you for your amazing product. I did use Becker product, but it was designed for a one size fits all approach. With the Ninja product, it allowed me to use your question bank to focus on topics that I could not grasp fully. It also helped with how ninja will reference the text relating to the question that I did not correctly answer. I managed to finish my CPA exams before the update.

Daniel - I've passed AUD and recently passed BEC and now am moving onto FAR. I've failed FAR twice in the past, the last time with a 73, but I'm determined to pass my next re-take on July 3rd. However, every time I sit down at the library after my work day, I crack open the material but can't focus. I literally open up my study materials, watch a video or two or read a page but none of it is really sinking in and I waste so much time TRYING to really get into the material that after an hour or so, I just pack up and go home and say "Ok, maybe tomorrow." Some days I don't even open up the materials at all. I also just got a promotion at work, so I'm transitioning to a new position (with all the work and stress that comes with that). Lately, I just want to go out and have a beer after work or hang out with wife/friends/family, or binge-watch The Sopranos. I guess I kind of lost steam.

I know I still have time, but I'm afraid that if I can't get into a study routine soon, I won't be prepared (especially with the new exam format) and I REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY want to pass this section in July.

Anyway, I guess I'm looking for tips on how to properly reset and get back into the material. I'm halfway done with the CPA exam, and I don't want to lose any momentum.

Rich - My scores are as follows using Becker:

BEC - 69FAR - 72AUD - 72REG - 72

I need to get over the hump. What is your suggestion for the best Ninja Study Package to use?

Working Moms and the CPA Exam - CPA Reviewed #78

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Andrew: I’m about to begin studying for the CPA and just received my NTS for FAR. I’m planning to use the Ten Point Combo and have a few questions.

1.) Will there be any updates to the Ninja Book and/or NINJA Notes this year for any of the sections?

2.) I’m one of those people that are terrible at taking notes. Do you know if people have had good results with copying the Ninja Notes word for word?

3.) I’m trying figure out a rough 8-week study schedule for how to use the Ninja study framework for FAR. Could you let me know what you think of the plan below and if there’s anything you would tweak/change?

• Week 1 - 4i. Read the Entire Ninja Bookii. Copy Ninja Notesiii. Listen to Ninja Audio

• Week 5i. Review Notesii. Ninja MCQ and Simsiii. Listen to Ninja Audio

• Week 6i. Review Notesii. Ninja MCQ and Simsiii. Listen to Ninja Audioiv. Look at Ninja Blitz and Ninja Plus

• Week 7i. Rewrite Ninja Notesii. Ninja MCQ and Simsiii. Listen to Ninja Audioiv. Look at Ninja Blitz and Ninja Plus

• Week 8i. Review Notesii. Ninja MCQ and Simsiii. Listen to Ninja Audio

Andria: I am currently looking to take a Business Ethics summer class online from any college to meet the Illinois requirements. Any recommendations on what college I can take this exam from ? Cheap ideas ?

Nida: Looking for help/guidance in the following:

1-      Is it possible to pass the CPA during the following times

a.       Start studying August-November 2017? If so, how many hours for each section is needed (please indicate hours as though the person may not have any financial background)

2-      Should one register for all 4 parts at once? If no, why not?

Malik: I bought the Ten Point Combo for AUD, but I do not know how to start. Could you please tell me what is the best way to study the materials? Do I start with the books and audio or what? Also, do I need to do the MCQ on daily basis? I am planning to take the exam 8 weeks from now. 

jmanderson21: Hey Jeff, I need some good study tips for the FAR section (Exam on May 31st, 2017) using Becker. I find it hard to pay attention and take notes during lectures. Should I even take any or just read the red ones the instructors insert. Also, Is there any tips on how to best go about remembering everything? Please help.

cpamatt: Hello Jeff, thank you for doing what you do. I am a little past two weeks doing multiple choice for REG and things are in the early stages of coming together. Still I want to give myself the best chance. My main concern is balancing my time come exam day. Would you be able to give us a breakdown of how long we should take on each section before we end up needing to play catch up.

LAWashington: I purchased the 10-point combo last year prior to the exam changing. I had to discontinue my studying temporarily and I'm ready to proceed. Do we pay for updates and how are the updates received?

luvlee_linda: I would like to take 2 parts this window – which 2 parts would you recommend, given the change in exam? I've taken the old version before and planning on taking some time off to knock out 2 of 4 this window! thanks!

SallyCPA: Hey Jeff thank you for your help! Do you think that the AICPA will be trying to extend the 18 month rule for 3 months throughout all the states within the next year?

Bryan: I bought the ten point combo for FAR middle last year. Has there been an update on the book since then?

Silky: Hi Jeff I am so confused about my AUD exam.I have scheduled my AUD exam for 11th May (as my NTS expiring that day) and I am not yet 25% covered with my syllabus( I am working/job part time 16 hours a week). Please suggest me what to do? Should I take it on 11th and wait for the result in August or should I cancel it ( and waste my total $250 bucks) and schedule it in September as my BEC is scheduled in July.P.S - My REG will expire on 14th January 2018.

Luigi: Hi Jeff,This will be my first time taking the CPA exam so I have few questions:Is the Ninja CPA review all I need to pass the CPA exam? Or do I need an additional test tool, like Becker or CPA Excel?

Yolanda: Hi Jeff,

This is a question on long term studying and timing that I'd really appreciate your input on.

Here is my situation: In the fall, I'll begin an MS in Accounting program. I have a BS in economics (where I only took one intro to financial accounting course for non-majors) and I've been able to take a few accounting courses at the undergrad level since then. By the fall, I would have taken Intermediate 1 and 2, Cost Accounting, I would like to take sections of the CPA exam as I go through my masters program, which will be complete in about a year and a half.

I figure I would have had Financial reporting and maybe non-governmental and non-profit accounting by before the end of year 1 which will allow me to take FAR, then I can take REG, AUD, and BEC before graduation.

I'm planning on using Gleim and NINJA materials to study. I really want to over-study to give myself a shot at the Elijah Watt Sells Award. Should I start studying using Gleim now even before my masters program begins, or do you suggest I just focus on the Masters classes and then start taking the exam in the last semester (or even after I graduate from) of my grad program?

Alma: Can I re-take reg next testing window if I take it this testing window but no not get my results until middle of August?

If the answer is no, I have to wait until I get my August results then how is that fair? I am basically going to lose an entire testing window to take the test and am close to losing my audit credit.

Aman: Hello Sir,I have already passed Bec and Reg. Unfortunately I am unable to clear Aud and FAR. I have failed 3 times in Aud and maximum score was juts 55. Please help me otherwise my score will expire soon. I don't know what to do in Aud. i always find TBS to be challenging and always fail to answer them in spite of knowing the concepts also. In Far, I have got 63 in my first attempt. I am on the verge of quitting

Gary: Hey Jeff-

I'm a senior pursuing a Master of Accounting (5yr program) at Penn State. I will be interning with PwC in NYC this summer starting in June 5th and my summer break starts on May 6th. I have this ambition - more likely a hope- to start studying and pass the exam - REG Only - before the start date of my internship. Once the break starts, I can put at least 8 hours but until the break I can only put up to 4 hours.

I will get free Becker pass once I get the full time offer from PwC but I wanted to start my game ahead and get at least one of the four exams done. Also, I've watched your videos explaining about your products and they seem quite appealing to me.

So my question is...

Do you think is it doable - if I dedicate more than 8 hours a day for a month until the exam - by using only NINJA package?

Nikunj: Hi Jeff, I gave two exam AUD and FAR in January but didn't pass. My score was 68 and 69 respectively. My MCQ had excellent score however TBS was not up to the mark. Could you please suggest something how to improve in TBS and also considering new exam technique how should I prepare? I have two plans either appear in May end or July starting, what would you prefer?

A Nebraskan: Hi Jeff!

I discovered your NINJA Study Products last night before going to bed, and I have been listening to your

'How to Study for the CPA Exam' (both general and FAR), '2017 CPA exam changes', and the 'NINJA method' videos all morning at my desk, and I'm interested in purchasing your products. I have a few questions:

1) You mention not studying for more than 8 weeks for any CPA test, but I am studying for almost three months before I take FAR. Given my Becker study plan, I will be done with the 10th and final section by June 18th. This, I will have ~3 weeks for review. Minding my previous section(s), would you recommend the NINJA notes? I do not think I'll want to/have time for reading and condensing the NINJA book. Or should I power through the lectures and skills sections so I have 3< weeks to apply the NINJA method during the review phase?

2) Would you recommend me rescheduling REG for September 2 vs waiting another month (~7 weeks with a week break after FAR (7/5/17)) given your 7-8 week study recommendation? My testing window for FAR and REG end shortly after the October 2, 2017 exam date.

3) Although I am not married, I do not want to completely shut out my significant other. The first week I worked 8-4 and was studying for 5:30-9:30 (F1: Modules 1-8), and was then with her from 10-bedtime where we watch shows, etc.

She too is studying but for grad school so I'm not the only one. Anyway, how did you budget time for studying and time for your wife?

I’dlovea75: How do you suggest we allocate time for the new AUD exam? 2 hours for MCQ 2 hours for TBS?

audarah: HAve you ever seen anyone improve their score in far by 22 points from their first try to first retake? I mega bombed.

queencpa: I plan to take the CMA 1 exam before I take my *hopefully* final exam, FAR. Which CMA materials are the best in your opinion? I believe you are also a CMA.

fblessed777: I really need your help in calculating A/R turnover ratio, Which one shall I use in the exam? Net average A/R or Gross average A/R? I see some says Net others say Gross.

Mo: I failed Aud in March. I tried to squeeze it in before the new test and didn’t study all the material. I now have 4 weeks left and started from scratch. I am up to the 2nd chapter of the Becker materials. I also bought Ninja MCQ and Ninja notes. what should my plan of action be?

Marriage, Dating, and the CPA Exam - CPA Reviewed #76

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1. Emily -  Hi Jeff, I have a question about NASBA Experience Verification Service. I could not get a job at a public accounting firm. Currently, I'm working at non-profit organization as an accountant. But there is no CPA in this accounting team. I'd like to know if families or friends can verify my work experience if they are CPA. If it's not allowed, I should pay for the verification service. Do you know anything about interview of this service?

2. Jodie - I need study advice and to know more about your products. I was wondering if you could help me. I used another course and BOMBED bad. I was always a "look out the window person" in college then go home, read the book and learn it that way. If I was still lost, I would read the book and pay intense attention to the instructor. That strategy didn't help. I’m short on cash and have no idea where to go from here. Do you have courses with books and videos!? I'm looking more for a program that teaches you not really dives right in like you are fresh out of college. I graduated 15 years ago. I'm at the level of "how do the financial statements flow" . I feel like a complete moron!! Can you help? Please tell me you've seen people fall flat on their face like this and come back stronger!

3. Swati - I took regulation twice (73,72) and both times my score analysis said weaker in simulations. The first time I took I was literally sweating while attempting simulations cos I knew nothing and I scored 73. The second time I thought I did better on simulations than the first attempt and was confident will pass with a 80 but landed up with a 72, which was a shock to me !Any advice ? I used (super-expensive CPA Review Course) for all this while. I think I need more questions to practice. Will NINJa get me there ? I am disciplined with my study habits. Just to give you a background I have cleared rest of the three papers in one go 85 in fare and BEC and 93 in audit. Also this one will be my last attempt to save my credit for FARE. So it is a very crucial attempt so I want to make sure I give my 100 percent and I m using the right material. Also I m very much worried about the new updates and the new structure for reg ! Is it like a lot changes? Can you please provide some insights. Thanks so much . Swati

4. Samantha - I have the REG NINJA Notes for 2016 tax law, but will be retesting after June 2017. Will I be able to receive an updated version of the notes based on 2017 tax law?

5. Ashley - I just received my score for BEC and I failed miserably. I put in the time, if I wasn't working I was studying. Toward the end, I would take a random evening off and have dinner with the boyfriend and not worry about studying and start fresh the next day...maybe this was wrong!!

Right now I am starting to study for FAR and I do not want the same thing to happen! What do I need to do?? Anytime I look up different forums or CPA review info, this has come up. I am not too sure how this site works. Please help!

6. Kimberly - Hi Jeff - I got a 63 on AUD in Q1 2017. I basically schemed through the material a week and half before the test date and really thought I pass.

I am currently trying to give myself ample time ...