CPA Exam Prep
NC State MAC students' CPA exam pass rate is above the national average. Learn about the resources and support we offer to students to achieve success on the exam.
The NC State MAC program partners with Becker CPA Review to provide study materials to our students. Becker has earned strong track records of student success through superior teaching, curriculum and learning tools that enable students to develop the knowledge and performance skills necessary to pass their exams.
The NC State MAC program’s goal is to have all members of each class complete and pass all parts of the CPA exam before they start work.
2024 CPA Exam Changes: A Guide for Students
In January 2024, the CPA Exam is undergoing significant revisions. Understanding these changes is crucial for candidates planning to take the exam beginning in 2024. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s changing?
The CPA Exam will transition to a Core + Discipline model. This means you will complete three Core sections:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Taxation & Regulation (REG)
Additionally, you must select and complete one Discipline section from the following:
- Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
- Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
These Discipline sections are designed to reflect the evolving pillars of the CPA profession and will replace the current BEC (Business Environment & Concepts) section.
Guidance for NC State MAC Students
The new CPA Exam model is a significant shift designed to align with the profession’s evolution. As you prepare, remember that careful planning and understanding of these changes are key to your success. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Deciding when to take each part of the exam depends on your academic background and your program schedule. Here’s how to determine the best path for you:
- Non-Accounting Undergraduates:
- You must complete the Jenkins MAC program before sitting for any CPA exam parts.
- Accounting Undergraduates:
- Your Jenkins MAC program start date, full-time (defined as completing the MAC program in two academic semesters) or part-time status, and chosen Discipline will influence your exam schedule.
| Full-time Students (Starting classes in fall semester) | Full-time Students (Starting classes in spring semester) |
|---|---|
| REG: End of fall or beginning of spring semester AUD: End of spring semester FAR: Summer BAR: Summer | AUD: End of spring semester FAR: Summer BAR: Summer REG: End of fall semester |
Part-time MAC Students
The sequencing for part-time students will vary based on the MAC class sequence and program completion timeline. Please consult with the MAC Program Director for personalized advice.
First-time pass rate above the national average
For the 2022 calendar year, the national average first-time pass rate was 52.84%. NC State students had a pass rate of 73.96%, over a 20% difference.
For students accepting offers from firms paying for CPA exam review
When you accept an offer of employment, the firm or company may offer to pay for your CPA exam review materials. Becker CPA Review is often the company of choice by several firms. To help you successfully complete this review, the MAC Program has coordinated with Becker to offer live online workshops with Becker national instructors. These workshops are open to all students.
For students accepting offers from firms not paying for CPA exam review or students without a job offer
The MAC Program covers the cost of Becker CPA Exam Review . Students will be required to sign a contract with the MAC Program and will be required to use the Becker online study materials. The live online workshops with Becker national instructors are available to all students in this category as well.
PLEASE NOTE: The program will continue to provide financial support towards CPA review materials for future classes. Full coverage is not guaranteed each year.