How do I know if Im ready for the CPA exam?

Signs of readiness include: consistently scoring 75%+ on practice exams, feeling comfortable with most topics, and recognizing question patterns. Some anxiety is normal—perfect confidence before the exam is rare.

What if I dont feel ready the week before?

If you consistently score below 65% on practice exams, consider rescheduling. Losing the exam fee is better than losing a failed attempt to the 18-month window. However, if youre in the 70-75% range, trust your preparation and take the exam.

Study Resources7 min read

CPA Final Review Week

What to do in the week before your exam

Reduce study intensity as exam day approaches

Focus on weak areas and high-yield topics

Take 2-3 practice exams under real conditions

Rest the day before—cramming backfires

The final week before your CPA exam is crucial. Proper final review consolidates your knowledge and builds confidence without creating burnout. Heres how to spend these critical days.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

Final Week Schedule

Heres a recommended approach for your final 7 days before the exam.

Days 7-6

Targeted review

Focus on weak areas, 4-6 hours/day

Days 5-4

Practice exams

Full practice exam each day

Day 3

Review wrong answers

Analyze practice exam mistakes

Day 2

Light review

Quick flashcards, high-yield topics only

Day 1

Rest

No studying, logistics prep, early sleep

High-Yield Topics to Review

Focus your limited time on topics that appear frequently and carry significant weight.

Topics where youve consistently struggled
Heavily tested areas (check your review courses emphasis)
Recent changes or updates (CPA Evolution content)
Common simulation topics
Research question technique (easy points)

What to Avoid in Final Week

Some well-intentioned actions can hurt your performance.

Dont learn new material—reinforce what you know
Dont study for more than 6-8 hours on any day
Dont take practice exams the day before
Dont read online forums about exam difficulty
Dont change your sleep schedule drastically

The Day Before

Your activities the day before significantly impact exam performance.

Light review only (30-60 minutes max)
Gather required materials (ID, confirmation, etc.)
Know your testing center location and parking
Eat a normal dinner (nothing unusual)
Go to bed at your normal time (7-8 hours of sleep)
No alcohol or sleep aids

Recommended CPA Review Courses

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Related Exam Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Only light review—quick flashcards or a brief glance at notes for 30-60 minutes maximum. Intense studying the night before causes fatigue and anxiety. Your knowledge wont significantly change in one night, but your rest level can make a big difference.