Should I study for the CPA during busy season?

If possible, avoid scheduling exams during peak busy season. Maintain some minimal study (5-10 hours weekly) to prevent forgetting, but dont expect to make major progress when working 60+ hour weeks.

How do I tell my employer about CPA exam studying?

Frame it positively as professional development. Ask about study support policies. Set realistic expectations about your availability during intense study periods. Most employers value employees pursuing licensure.

Mindset & Motivation8 min read

CPA Exam While Working Full-Time

Balancing career and CPA exam preparation

Most CPA candidates work full-time while studying

Plan for 12-18 months, not the aggressive 6-month timelines

Early morning study sessions are often most effective

Busy season requires adjusted expectations

Most CPA candidates study while working full-time. Balancing job responsibilities with 15-25 hours of weekly studying is challenging but achievable with the right strategies and expectations.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

15-20 hours

Weekly Study Hours

12-18 months

Timeline (Full-time work)

5-6 AM

Study Before Work

Significant

Busy Season Impact

Finding Study Time

Working professionals need to be creative about finding study hours. Here are common approaches.

Early mornings (5-7 AM): Study before work while your mind is fresh
Lunch breaks: 30-45 minutes of focused review
Evenings: 1-2 hours after work (but watch for fatigue)
Weekends: Bulk study time (4-6 hours per day)
Commute: Audio lectures if you drive or have transit time

The Early Morning Advantage

Many successful working candidates swear by early morning study sessions.

Your mind is fresh and focused (no work fatigue)
Fewer interruptions from family, calls, or messages
Youve accomplished studying before the day even starts
Creates consistent routine thats hard to derail
Requires earlier bedtime (trade evening TV for morning study)

Managing Busy Season

Public accounting busy season (January-April, August-October) requires special planning.

Reduce Expectations

Dont expect to maintain normal study volume during 60-70 hour weeks.

Minimum Viable Study

Aim for 5-10 hours per week to maintain some momentum.

Schedule Around It

Pass sections before busy season or wait until after.

Use Slow Periods

Bank progress during slower work months.

Employer Support

Many employers, especially public accounting firms, support CPA candidates.

Ask about study time policies (some firms offer study hours)
Inquire about exam fee and course reimbursement
Discuss flexible scheduling during intense study periods
Set expectations with your manager about your CPA timeline
Big 4 firms typically provide Becker access and passing bonuses

Protecting Your Personal Life

Dont let CPA studying consume your entire life outside work.

Schedule non-negotiable personal time (exercise, family, friends)
Take at least one full rest day per week
Communicate your timeline to loved ones so they understand the sacrifice
Set a study end time each day (dont study until midnight)
Remember: this is temporary, not permanent

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Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely—most CPA candidates do. Plan for 12-18 months, study 15-20 hours per week, and use strategies like early morning sessions. Its challenging but very achievable with commitment and planning.