Blog

A correlative CPA study reveals that knowing what to bring to CPA exam directly impacts the final scores. According to these findings, CPA’s 50-60% pass rates infer that the exam is not a typical run-of-the-mill test. It blends technical knowledge with deep psychological fortitude. One way to ensure psychological preparedness is to minimize distractions and anxiety by having all essential items within reach. Our CPA Exam analysts explain what to bring to CPA exam in compliance with the test regulations. We also take CPAs for learners needing help. 

One Day to CPA Exam Preparations

The day to CPA exam should go toward reviewing the guidelines and compliance requirements detailed on the Prometric CPA page. 

1. Check the validity of the CPA exam ticket (NTS) and other vital information, including the date, time, location, and what to bring to CPA exam. 
2. Check if the Prometric Center allows backpacks. Suppose they do not, stuff the items needed in a plastic Zip-Lock bag that can fit into a locker bag. 
3. Check and master the travel route. The last mistake a learner can make is straying off the right path and missing the exam. If possible, do a trial run or drive to determine how long it takes to get to the testing center. 
4. Review the testing center. Knowing the environment can help alleviate the stress and exam day confusion. Get into the test center during the visit to familiarize yourself with the environment and surroundings. 
5. Study very little: A Day before the exam date, you should go into practicing calmness. Learners should begin reading two months before the exam to help devote the last date towards brushing over formulas applying to the CPA exams. 
6. Plan on getting at least 8 hours of deep sleep. The examinees should take neutral foods and avoid alcohol. 
7. Stay calm by maintaining a positive mindset. Learners should not worry about how to tackle the CPA questions. They should already cover the exam-taking strategies.

What to Bring to CPA Exam: The Test-Day’s Morning Preparations

Research shows that behavioral consistency is critical to passing the CPA. Thus, learners should maintain regular routines, including waking up at normal hours. After preparation, below are items that comprise what to bring to CPA exam. 

• Identification Documents 

Learners must identify themselves at the testing center to be allowed in. The IDs must be valid and up-to-date. Identification documents for the CPA exams include a driver’s license, passport or government-issued ID, and student photo ID. 

• Water 

Writing the CPA can be an arduous task. Learners are under stress to brainstorm ideas and apply them to real-life accounting scenarios. Thus, they must stay well-hydrated to maintain their cognitive functions and avoid stress and anxiety. Getting thirsty during the exam can be distracting since the mind may fixate on the problem. 

• The NTS

Upon successfully applying for the CPA exam, eligible applicants pay the associated fees via the designated account to be issued with the notice to schedule (NTS). The document is printable online from the learners’ CPA portal. It allows applicants to take their exams at any Prometric testing center, regardless of their jurisdiction of registration. Primarily, the NTS applies in place of the IDs. However, some testing centers may need both the NTS and the IDs, so it is logical to pack both items.

• Identification Forms 

All CPA examinees need two identification forms with their signatures and photographs. The first form goes toward the primary list, while the second goes to the secondary list. Items in the primary list include the learner’s valid driver’s license from any US jurisdiction, valid passport, and state Identification number or the US military ID. The secondary list comprises items such as the valid credit card, bank card debit, ATM card, and Board of Accountancy-issued identifications. All these documents should accompany the two lists. 

What Not to Carry to CPA Exam

According to the compliance guidelines from the Prometric CPA page, learners should only carry the necessary items. Below is the explanation of what not to carry:

• Large personal belongings: Learners can carry personal belongings like a jacket for bad weather or a smartphone. However, such items must remain in the locker room during the exam. The applicants should avoid personal belongings that are too large.
• Timers and calculators: Examinees access timers on their computers for the CPA calculation. Hence, there is no need for electrical timers and calculators.
• Other electronic devices, including smartwatches, clocks, calculators, electronic cigarettes, cameras, AirPods, headphones, laptops, tablets, and media players.
• Guns and other weapons are illegal per prometric CPA page guidelines.

What to Bring to CPA Exam: The Bottomline

The question of what to bring to CPA exam boils down to essential items. The blog covers identification materials, a notice to schedule, 2 pencils, and personal items like water. Contact our top experts for help with CPA exams.