CPA/CMA Exam Study Tips are always needed for success. As far as we know, we are all familiar with finance and accountancy, but most of us still don’t even know how to implement or prepare for that. However, it is an essential skill when it comes to achieving certifications like US CPA and US CMA.

If you are studying for the dual certification i.e. US CPA or US CMA or working towards getting your licensure, whatever it is if you are discovering it challenging to get through your to-do checklist and get jobs done conveniently, don’t forget to check out these five essential preparation tips to help you achieve your goals.

1. Create a Realistic Study Schedule

Time management and scheduling are one of the most crucial parts while preparing for the US CPA and US CMA exams. Make sure to list out all your assignments and count due dates to help reach your objectives and enhance your time management skills. Check your task board at the start and by the end of every workday to ensure nothing was forgotten.

How Many Hours Should You Study Daily?

To pass the CPA or CMA exam, consistent and structured study time is crucial. Here’s a data-backed breakdown of recommended study hours:

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Recommended Daily Study Hours for CPA/CMA Exams

Exam Section	Total Study Hours Needed	Daily Study Hours (12-Week Plan)	Daily Study Hours (6-Month Plan)
CPA – FAR	120-150 hours	2.5-3.5 hours/day	1-1.5 hours/day
CPA – AUD	100-120 hours	2-3 hours/day	1 hour/day
CPA – REG	110-130 hours	2-3 hours/day	1-1.5 hours/day
CPA – BEC	80-100 hours	1.5-2.5 hours/day	45 min-1 hour/day
CMA – Part 1	100-120 hours	2-3 hours/day	1 hour/day
CMA – Part 2	100-120 hours	2-3 hours/day	1 hour/day

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Key Factors That Affect Study Time

1. Your Background
   • Accounting graduates may need 20% fewer hours.
   • Career-changers may need extra 30-50 hours per section.
2. Study Efficiency
   • Active learning (MCQs, simulations) > Passive reading.
   • Use the Pomodoro Technique (25-minute focused sessions).
3. Work Schedule
   • Working full-time? 2-3 hours on weekdays, 4-5 on weekends.
   • Full-time student? 3-4 hours daily.

2. In-class Daily Review

    Take Mock Exams Seriously. Speaking of the best-in-class review course in the market, whether in India or outside India as well, the Surgent review course has personalized exam review courses for US CMA, CPA, EA, CIA, and CISA exams that comprehend your study plan with the practice CPA exams test questions, CMA exams test questions, and more to construct effortless bursts of educational content towards your career path you desire to take.

3. Limit Your Social Presence

Usage of social media such as WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and more has become a driving force in our community, which has become the most common distraction factor.

While preparing for the CPA or CMA exams, make sure to limit the number of times you glance at your Smartphone by placing it on your study desk. Moreover, you can also turn off the notifications on all social media platforms and bypass exploring the platforms on the internet.

4. Say goodbye to noisy things

Many working professionals don’t have the courage to say that they have enough on their plate. However, saying no causes stress, anxiety, and frustration because they are unable to finish the assignments on time or show their best work. Remember that, don’t push yourself too much, it will not be good for you or the finance or accounting firm.

5. Hire a mentor to assist you in your career path

Look for the best-in-class mentor to guide you in your career path and help you get the dual certification (US CPA and US CMA) stress-free and hassle-free. KC GlobEd has got you all covered if you are looking for the best educational counselor and subject-matter expert – CPA & CA Kamal Chhabra.

KC GlobEd in collaboration with the Surgent educational professional, has everything you need to pass the US CPA and US CMA exams in one go. They have the adaptive learning approach with their unique software – adaptive technology, including ReadySCORE, you can maintain your study time to a minimum and pass the exams.

 So, what are you waiting for? Get on the way to pass the US CPA and US CMA Exam today with the Surgent educational professional and in-house team of KC GlobEd.

CPA/CMA Exam Preparation FAQs

1. How long does it take to prepare for the CPA or CMA exam?

• CPA: 6–12 months (300–400 total study hours)
• CMA: 4–6 months (200–250 total study hours)
  Depends on your background, study efficiency, and work schedule.

2. What’s the hardest CPA/CMA exam section?

• CPA: FAR (Financial Accounting & Reporting) – Most content-heavy
• CMA: Part 1 (Financial Planning & Analysis) – Complex calculations
  Most candidates fail these sections first—allocate extra study time.

3. Can I work full-time while studying for CPA/CMA?

✅ Yes, but you’ll need:

• CPA: 2–3 hours/weekday + 4–5 hours/weekend
• CMA: 1.5–2 hours/weekday + 3–4 hours/weekend
  Tip: Use weekends for mock exams.

4. Which study materials are best for CPA/CMA?

Resource	Best For	Avg Cost
Becker CPA	Comprehensive review	$2,000–$3,000
Wiley CMA	Budget-friendly	$1,000–$1,500
Ninja CPA/CMA	Supplemental MCQs	$67/month
Free alternatives: AICPA sample tests, IMA practice questions.

5. How many times can you fail a CPA/CMA exam?

• CPA: Unlimited retakes, but check your state’s 18/30-month rule.
• CMA: No limit, but you must pass both parts within 3 years.
  Wait 1–2 months before retaking to fix weak areas.

6. Is the CPA or CMA exam harder?

Factor	CPA	CMA
Content	4 parts (wider scope)	2 parts (deeper focus)
Pass Rate	~50%	~45%
Math	Moderate	Heavy (Part 1)
CPA is longer; CMA has tougher calculations.

7. How do I stay motivated during CPA/CMA prep?

• Set mini-goals (e.g., “Finish 50 MCQs daily”)
• Join study groups (Facebook/Reddit communities)
• Track progress with apps (Becker’s Adapt2U, Excel tracker)

8. Should I take CPA or CMA first?

• Take CPA first if: You work in audit/tax or want broader recognition.
• Take CMA first if: You’re in corporate finance or cost accounting.
  CMA is shorter and cheaper to complete first.

9. Can I pass CPA/CMA without a review course?

⚠️ Possible but risky! Self-study candidates have ~30% lower pass rates.
*At least use free AICPA/IMA materials + Ninja MCQs ($67).*

10. What’s the #1 mistake CPA/CMA candidates make?

Neglecting practice exams!

• 71% of failing CPA candidates skipped mock tests (NASBA data).
• Fix it: Simulate exam conditions 2–3 times before test day.

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