What if I have a panic attack during the exam?

If you feel a panic attack coming on, use the break to step away. Deep breathing (4-4-4 pattern) can help. Remember: panic attacks feel terrible but are not dangerous. If severe anxiety is a pattern, consider speaking with a mental health professional before your exam.

Should I take medication for CPA exam anxiety?

Consult a healthcare provider for medical advice. If you currently take anti-anxiety medication, continue as prescribed. Dont start new medications close to exam day without consulting a doctor, as side effects could affect performance.

Mindset & Motivation7 min read

CPA Exam Test Anxiety

Managing stress and anxiety during exam preparation

Some anxiety is normal and can even improve performance

Excessive anxiety impairs recall and decision-making

Preparation is the best anxiety reducer

Physical techniques (breathing, exercise) are effective

Test anxiety affects many CPA candidates, potentially undermining months of preparation. Understanding anxiety and learning management techniques can significantly improve your exam performance and study experience.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

Understanding Test Anxiety

Test anxiety is a type of performance anxiety triggered by evaluation situations. Recognizing the signs helps you address it.

Physical symptoms: Racing heart, sweating, nausea, tension
Cognitive symptoms: Racing thoughts, blanking out, negative self-talk
Behavioral symptoms: Avoidance, procrastination, rushing
Moderate anxiety can sharpen focus; excessive anxiety impairs performance

Preparation-Based Strategies

The best anxiety prevention is thorough, structured preparation.

Master the Material

Confidence from knowledge is the best anxiety cure.

Take Practice Exams

Familiarity with the format reduces uncertainty.

Simulate Conditions

Practice under timed conditions to desensitize.

Visit the Testing Center

If possible, visit beforehand to reduce unknowns.

Physical Techniques

Your body affects your mind. These physical strategies reduce anxiety symptoms.

Deep breathing: 4 counts in, hold 4, exhale 4 (repeat 5 times)
Progressive muscle relaxation: Tense and release muscle groups
Exercise: Regular exercise reduces baseline anxiety
Sleep: 7-8 hours the night before is crucial
Avoid excessive caffeine on exam day

Cognitive Techniques

Changing your thoughts can change your anxiety level.

Reframe anxiety as excitement (similar physical sensations)
Challenge catastrophic thinking: One exam section is not your whole future
Focus on process, not outcome: Do your best, accept what you cant control
Positive self-talk: "I am prepared" instead of "I hope I pass"
Visualization: Imagine yourself calmly completing the exam

During the Exam

Strategies to use if anxiety strikes during the actual exam.

Take a 30-second pause and breathe deeply
Remind yourself that some anxiety is normal
Skip difficult questions and return to them later
Use your break to stretch and reset
Focus on one question at a time—the whole exam is overwhelming

Recommended CPA Review Courses

Vishal CPA Prep

Personalized tutoring and coaching

$175–$2,095View Review

Becker

The industry standard for CPA exam prep

$2,499–$5,999View Review

Best For Your Situation

Best for Anxious Test Takers

Test anxiety is real and can significantly impact your performance. You need extra support, thorough preparation, and confidence-building tools to succeed on exam day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. The CPA exam is high-stakes and challenging. Most candidates experience some anxiety. Moderate anxiety can actually improve performance by increasing focus. The goal is managing anxiety, not eliminating it entirely.