Curved scores, unnecessary delays in score releases, and other myths

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  • #187930
    Anonymous
    Inactive

    In reading through some of the posts on this forum, as well during conversations I’ve had with coworkers, I’ve encounteed the same statements and complaints regarding the “curving” of the exam and how long it takes to get scores.

    I think this is a pretty interesting article, as it explains the grading process a little more and clarifies the “myths” regarding scores.

    https://www.mocpa.org/young-professionals/cpa-candidate/license-req/exam-myths

    Any thoughts?

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  • #587984
    mjp44
    Member

    That was an interesting read. I was always under the impression that our scores were relative to how other candidates performed. But it does state that the exam is all based upon pre-determined criteria. There must be some crazy algorithm that scores these tests based upon the nature/difficulty of the question answered. It reinforces the notion that 1 question does not equal one point on the exam.

    FAR- PASSED (11/13)
    REG- PASSED (2/14)
    BEC- PASSED (5/14)
    AUD- PASSED (8/14)

    If it's important to you, you will find a way. If it isn't, you will find an excuse.

    #587985

    Good info, however, to say it isn't curved still is flawed IMO. Isn't a part of the determination as to whether a question is “difficult” or “medium” based on how many people have answered it correctly in the past? If so, then the exam is “curved” in a sense that if you get a question right that others don't, that helps your case disproportionately. Similarly, if you get that same question incorrect, it doesn't hurt as much because it's relatively challenging (the relative criteria being how your peers did, which is how a curve works).

    If my underlying premise to the above is inaccurate, however, please disregard what I'm saying lol.

    FAR - 84
    AUD - 76 (phew)
    BEC - 88
    REG - 77

    DONE!

    #587986
    Anonymous
    Inactive

    I wouldn't call it curved, but weighted.

    #587987
    M.O.D.
    Member

    If the scoring process is not transparent, ie released to independent, qualified auditors to analyze, anything coming out of the AICPA should be assumed to be bunch of BS.

    Professional skepticism should be an integral part of our profession.

    BA Mathematics, UC Berkeley
    Certificates in CPA and EA preparation, College of San Mateo
    CMA I 420, II 470
    FAR 91, AUD Feb 2015 (Gleim self-study)

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