Countdown to the CFE: Anticipation and Acceptance

As I sit on the cusp of my third attempt at the Common Final Examination (CFE), I find myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. The exam is just two days away, leaving me to reflect on the journey that has brought me to this moment.

A Look Back at My Previous Attempts

My first attempt taught me a hard lesson: while I passed Day 1, I fell short on Level 1 Sufficiency for Days 2 and 3, ultimately earning a Level 7. In an effort to prepare better, I approached my second attempt with confidence, only to again face disappointment as I failed to meet the Level 1 Sufficiency threshold, resulting in just a Level 2. The resources I relied on, including Densmore, seemed insufficient in the face of this challenge.

A Desire for Closure

Now, as I prepare for my third attempt, I feel a mix of resignation and determination. Part of me just wants to move on—pass or fail, I simply want to reclaim my life post-exam. Once this is over, I plan to discard my notes and textbooks and embrace a new chapter, whatever that may look like.

Of course, if I don’t succeed this time, it will sting. The disappointment, especially when faced with friends and family who may expect more from me, will be palpable. However, I know that with time, I will recover. There are always alternative paths—an MBA or a Master’s in a different field could lead to exciting opportunities. Life is far too expansive to be restricted by a single designation.

The Reality of the CPA Designation

Should I pass, it would undoubtedly feel like an achievement. The sense of pride that comes with clearing this hurdle is alluring, yet I find myself questioning the value of the title that comes with it. To me, the CPA designation has lost its luster, reduced to a formality that seems more about navigating a flawed process than truly preparing one for a successful career.

The CPA journey feels less about becoming a qualified professional and more about learning how to ace standardized tests and incur significant expenses. As I reflect on the entire CPA Canada process, I can’t help but see it as an elaborate illusion—one that may ultimately leave many feeling unprepared for real-world challenges.

Embracing Uncertainty

As I share these thoughts, I realize I’m not entirely sure where they lead. Perhaps