Everything You Need for CPA Exam Day
You’re at the home stretch of your CPA journey…the moment you’ve been preparing for…*drum roll*
It’s CPA Exam Day!
I know how you’re feeling…nervous, stressed, and exhausted. I’ve been there + know exactly what’s going through your mind. I wanted to share everything you need for CPA Exam Day + tips nobody talks about. I recommend preparing these must-have’s the day before your exam.
These are the must-have’s you need:
Notice to Schedule (NTS)
Hot tip: I print my NTS + put it in my car the night before (to ensure my NTS is ready *cue Spongebob voice “I’m ready! I’m ready!”*)
Drivers License / ID / Passport
I prefer using disposable face masks because imo it’s more comfortable to breathe in than the cotton/fabric face masks
Bringing your own earplugs is a major CPA Exam Day hack nobody talks about. The silence is everything (and I mean EVERYTHING lol) when these babies are in my ears. They really do block out noise + the BS that may distract you. I also use these earplugs for a good night’s sleep. I don’t like the crusty headphones Prometric supplies you with + I heard they’re not comfortable to wear. Thank me later for earplugs hack ;)
Snacks
I bring a banana or energy bar. Sometimes I would bring a slice of pizza (lmao), but I’ll save that story for next time. If you’ve been following along, you know my CPA Exam Day ritual involves me eating Italian food before I take an exam. Italian food is the best + I need those carbs for brain fuel!
OOTD
Remember this isn’t New York Fashion Week where you wear your decide to wear your Chanel gown or suit and tie (cue song Suit & Tie by Justin Timberlake). This is where you dress comfortably.
My go-to top: Wear at least 2 layers (shirt and long-sleeve) in case the testing center is a bit chilly.
My go-to bottoms: Wear yoga pants or sweatpants. I recommend wearing pants with no pockets, but if you do have pockets get ready to do a full TSA scan from the Prometric employees.
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CPA Exams 101 (everything you need to know about the CPA Exams)
CPA Mindset Transformation (discovering your purpose for becoming a CPA, 90+ meditations exclusively for CPA Candidates, + life-changing mindset exercises)
How to Create Your Personalized CPA Study Plan (keep yourself accountable by staying on track based on your unique lifestyle with studying, career, wellness, + personal life)
CPA Exam Hacks (tactics on MCQ’s, Simulations, Essays, Progress Tests, Practice Exams, Time Management Tips, + more)
Exam Day Checklist (everything you need to know to prepare for exam day, what to expect, what to bring, how to overcome anxiety, etc.)
Study Resources (tools every CPA Candidate should know about)
Resources
Social Media: Follow @thecoolcpa on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, + The Cool CPA Podcast (on Apple, Spotify, + Google Podcasts)
Amazon Storefront: All the must-have’s I talked about are linked in my Amazon Store under “CPA Exam Day Essentials.”
I hope these tips helped! Remember, you are a CPA. Time just hasn’t caught up yet. If I can do it, so can you. Comment below what you usually bring on CPA Exam Day!