First and Last Name/s of Presenters

Emma PreissingFollow

Mentor/s

Professor Malik

Participation Type

Paper Talk

Abstract

Abstract

For prospective accountants, passing the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam is a crucial step in the certification process, but the format of the test can have a big effect on how well candidates perform. This paper dives into the changes and evolution of the CPA Exam and the ripple effects it has on how candidates exhibit their knowledge and abilities. It dissects all three core exams that are required. Additionally, the newly introduced specific discipline exams are examined and discussed in depth. The formats of the different exams are explored in relation to candidate performance and difficulty. In the end, the analysis sheds light on how the structure of the CPA exam affects applicant performance as well as the broader implications for professional growth and accounting education.

College and Major available

Accounting

Academic Level

Undergraduate student

Location

Session 10: Digital Commons & West 223J

Start Day/Time

4-25-2025 9:30 AM

End Day/Time

4-25-2025 10:45 AM

Students' Information

Abigail Francess, Accounting and Management, May 2025

Samantha Pierre, Accounting, December 2024

Danielle Como, Accounting and Finance, Honors Student, December 2024

Emily McNulty, Accounting and Finance, December 2024

Emma Preissing, Accounting and Finance, Honors, and May 2025

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License

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Apr 25th, 9:30 AM Apr 25th, 10:45 AM

How does the CPA exam format influence candidate performance?

Session 10: Digital Commons & West 223J

Abstract

For prospective accountants, passing the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam is a crucial step in the certification process, but the format of the test can have a big effect on how well candidates perform. This paper dives into the changes and evolution of the CPA Exam and the ripple effects it has on how candidates exhibit their knowledge and abilities. It dissects all three core exams that are required. Additionally, the newly introduced specific discipline exams are examined and discussed in depth. The formats of the different exams are explored in relation to candidate performance and difficulty. In the end, the analysis sheds light on how the structure of the CPA exam affects applicant performance as well as the broader implications for professional growth and accounting education.

 

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