Facing the CPA Exam: My Journey and Mixed Feelings

As I approach my third attempt at the CPA exam, I find myself grappling with a whirlwind of emotions. It’s hard to know exactly how to feel about this impending challenge, but here I am, ready to reflect on my experiences thus far.

Attempt #1 and #2: The Struggles

In my first try, I managed to pass Day 1 but fell short on Day 2 and 3, not meeting the Level 1 Sufficiency criteria. I received a Level 7, a score that wasn’t quite enough to reach my goal. My second attempt yielded a similar disappointment—I again failed to meet Level 1 Sufficiency and only achieved Level 2 despite studying with the Densmore materials.

Attempt #3: The Final Countdown

And now, I’m preparing for my third go. Honestly? I just want to put this behind me, whether I pass or fail. After this attempt, I plan to cast aside my notes and textbooks and finally reclaim some semblance of normalcy in my life. The weight of this persistent pursuit of certification has been considerable, and I’m ready to move forward.

Dealing with Potential Outcomes

If I don’t succeed this time around, I know it will sting, especially when it comes to facing friends and family. However, I’m confident that with time, I’ll bounce back. The world doesn’t end with a failed exam; there are many paths still open to me, such as pursuing an MBA or exploring a completely different field.

To be honest, while I can tolerate my work in Accounting, I can’t say I particularly enjoy it. It often feels mundane and repetitive—a far cry from fulfilling.

On the flip side, should I pass? Well, it would feel amazing, but the victory is complicated. Yes, it would be a point of pride to have persevered and achieved success, but deep down, I don’t hold the CPA designation in high esteem. To me, it’s been diminished by how it’s been administered, especially since the amalgamation.

A Pragmatic View of the CPA Designation

At this point in my journey, I see the CPA more as a stepping stone towards better job opportunities rather than a prestigious achievement. My experiences with the designation have been a mixed bag, skewing more towards the negative side.

The CPA Canada process has often felt like a poorly designed system. The examination seemingly does little to