We understand that juggling B.Com studies with CPA exam preparation is not easy but with the right approach, it can be done! Here are some of the tried-and-tested CPA exam tips for those still in B.Com:

1. Start with a Plan:

As with all exams, start by going through the CPA syllabus and exam format carefully. Then, break the syllabus down to decide which sections or topics you will cover during semesters.

You can also subscribe to one of the popular CPA exam preparation websites or apps that match your learning style and budget – and go through the resources available.

2. Integrate with Your B.Com Studies:

When you start creating a study plan, look for topics in your B.Com program that overlap with the CPA exam. This will help you which topics you can cover in which semester. Your B.Com professors can help you with clarifying doubts in areas in which they have expertise.

You may also connect with other students preparing for the CPA exam and form study groups. You can share notes with them, discuss concepts, and be each other’s support during the exam preparation phase.

3. Manage Your Time Effectively:

As a B.Com or B.Com (Hons) student from SMS Varanasi, you will have a rigorous workload. So, you will have to allocate time for your CPA preparation and stick to your study schedule.

Also, it’s important to use your time wisely. For example, you can use your commutes or breaks for quick revision sessions!

Sample CPA Exam Preparation Plan for B.Com Students at SMS Varanasi

A. First & Second semesters:

• Take B.Com courses like Business Communication, Business Statistics, Business Management, Financial Accounting, and Computerised Accounting seriously and consider them as building blocks for CPA exam concepts.
• Spend 1-2 hours per week checking out CPA review materials like introductory courses or flashcards – and focusing on relevant areas like Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) and Regulation (REG).
• Join workshops or seminars: Look for CPA prep workshops or seminars offered online or offline to gain insights from experts early on.

B. Third & Fourth semesters:

• Once you start delving into courses like Cost Accounting, Company Law, Income Tax Law and Accounts, and Fundamentals of Marketing, you can start preparing for relevant CPA exam sections like FAR, REG, and Business Environment and Concepts (BEC). Finding connections between B.Com and CPA topics is going to be fun.
• In the second year of your B.Com program, aim for 3-4 hours per week of dedicated CPA prep – focusing on practice questions and simulations for specific sections like FAR and REG.
• This is the right time to find study buddies from among your classmates or seniors pursuing a B.Com program at your college and also interested in the CPA exam. A right study group can make CPA preparation effortless as you have people to discuss concepts, share resources, and hold mock exams.

C Fifth & Sixth semesters:

• In the final year of your graduation, you might want to devote 4-5 hours per week to focused CPA review. By now, you should start covering all four exam sections (FAR, REG, BEC, and Auditing and Attestation (AUD)) – during your CPA preparation sessions.
• At SMS Varanasi, you can use the college library, computer labs, and faculty’s expertise (if you need guidance on specific topics).
• You should also start taking mock exams and practice tests regularly under timed conditions to assess your progress and identify areas for improvement.

Besides these, you should also:

• Choose CPA review materials wisely: Research and compare different review courses, study guides, and online platforms to find the ones that best suit your learning style and budget.
• Balance B.Com and CPA prep: Prioritise your B.Com studies while allocating dedicated time for CPA preparation. Maintain a healthy sleep and exercise routine to avoid burnout.
• Seek guidance and support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to professors, career counsellors, or experienced CPAs for advice and mentorship.

Remember, this plan is generic. You may have to adjust the suggested timeline according to your individual study pace and progress.

4. B.Com Courses that can help with CPA Preparation:

The optional Business Elective and Minor Elective courses offered by SMS Varanasi include topics like Business Law, Taxation, Economics, or Management Information Systems. B.Com students can choose these courses to make the CPA exam preparation easier.

Students should also consider taking the Vocational Courses in Data Analysis using Excel & SPSS and E-Taxation to develop valuable skills relevant to CPA practice.

With strategic planning and effective time management, you can ace both your B.Com course and CPA preparation. We wish all the best to students who want to become Certified Public Accountants – and hope these tips help them achieve their goals.