Reenie123 wrote: Thanks Ikbcpa2b, that gives me inspiration to go forward.  I feel so defeated and stupid - you have no idea!  I would love your scores, they look great to me.  If you get a 75 or 90, it does not make a difference, you are still a CPA!  congradulations on your accomplishment.

Thank you and you are welcome!

Reenie123, this exam is passable.  The key to the exam is perseverance.  My experience began 2 years ago and I wasn't putting in enough hours of study.  After my 3rd failure I knew I had to change.  If I can do this with 3 kids, a husband, and a full time job, anyone can do this.  I found a study partner.  Once I began to study with someone else my motivation increased because I didn't feel like I was alone in this process.  We studied every night for 3-4 hours straight via phone.  Then I studied during every lunch hour.  The weekends I would put in another 10 hours of study.  I carried my flashcards everywhere I went and reviewed at the store, doctor office, 10 min. breaks at work, in the car as a passenger, etc.  I also recorded the flashcards on a voice recorder and listened to it on my way to and from work.  I also took good notes.  Some notes were posted on my mirror so I could review as I dressed for work. 

I used Becker material.  My study partner and I would review one chapter per week.  We would each review the lectures before doing the homework questions together.  We made sure that we understood the concepts.  If we didn't feel comfortable about a section, we would review it again.  If we still didn't understand the concept or the MCQ, we would ask a professor from Becker class.

The last 2 weeks before an exam I would do the final exams given by Becker.  I would also focus on any weak areas and continued to review the MCQ and simulations.  Make sure you practice the simulations as you complete each chapter.  Remember to do all the MCQ as often as possible (at least 3x).  You have to put in atleast 30 hours per week.  I always gave myself 2 1/2 months to study AUD, BEC, REG and 4 months to study FAR. 

I hope this information helps.  Goodluck. 

Thank you Determined CPA,
I was starting to feel like it was just me.  I am also married and working a full time job, going to graduate school, and studying for my CPA --- so I know what you mean by the challenge of balancing it all out.  Its funny, your score ranges are right in line with mine --- and I passed only AUD with an 85.  If you can bring your scores from 60's to 75 ---- there may be hope for me.  Thank you for your inspiration and affirming that this exam is passable.  Congradulations on your wonderful scores!!!! --- How does it feel to be a CPA :).   I hope to follow your footsteps.