This article is part 1 of a 3-part series on studying for the CPA Exam. Stay tuned this summer for parts 2 and 3!

The CPA Exam is no joke. CPA candidates spend roughly 300–400+ hours packing knowledge into their neocortex before tackling the rigorous four-part Exam. Each section is long, in-depth, and intense—and you have to pass every single one in order to earn that impressive credential after your name. This isn’t the kind of exam you can squeak through using Cliff’s Notes—it’s the real deal. A challenging, time-consuming real deal that requires serious preparation.

Earning your CPA license is like getting the key to the penthouse suite. You’re still in the same amazing building with other accounting professionals, but now you’ve got the best view, top-tier access to global opportunities, and far-reaching credibility.

You can’t go wrong becoming a CPA. But getting there? We’re not going to pretend it’s a walk in the park—or any other overused idiom. It can be tough—especially if you’re working full-time, raising a family, or even just trying to keep your adorable dog from chewing up your study materials. So, how do you stay sane, maintain a life outside of Exam prep, and still master the material to climb to the next rung in your career? Here are some ideas to help you get your ducks in a nice, tidy, Exam-ready row—while still living your best life:

1. Plan and schedule everything—study time, breaks, meals, social time and everything in between. 


2. Create detailed, realistic study plans—you’re human, not a robot.


3. Study in short chunks instead of marathon sessions.


4. Break the Exam into small, manageable sections and familiarize yourself with the format.


5. Schedule your Exam at a time that won’t interfere with other work or life commitments.


6. Make time for fun—all work and no play makes for a cranky CPA.


7. Practice time management—prioritize what matters most and check off high-priority tasks first.


8. Make lists—in an app, a notebook or on a napkin—whatever works.


9. Use your commute to listen to CPA Exam review materials.


10. Take breaks. Seriously. Try out a free Young Pros Happy Hour this summer.


11. Prioritize self-care—it’s not just for TikTok influencers—you need it, too!


12. Sleep! Get quality rest. Melatonin and chamomile tea might just become your besties.


13. Spend time outdoors—exercise, walk the dog or just lie in the grass. It helps.


14. Did we mention breaks? They matter—take them.


15. Find a study partner—quiz each other, hold each other accountable and keep each other motivated.


16. Seek help—instructors, peers or review courses—whatever makes a tricky concept click.


17. Utilize technology and online study resources—not all partners need to be human.


18. Take a test drive with virtual mock CPA Exams.


19. Set boundaries—studying is important, but don’t let it overtake everything else. Your friends still want funny memes, your mom still wants to hear your voice and your dog still needs a walk.

Your well-being is just as important as passing the Exam, and by listening to your body, getting help when you need it, and not cutting corners on sleep, food, or fun, you’ll get through—and before you know it, you’ll have your express pass to the top floor and those three lovely letters after your name.

INCPAS offers everything you need: CPA Exam requirements, application and scheduling info, study tips, mock exams, discounted Exam prep courses, and more.  

Have your own tips to share? Share in the comments below!