[Kls238]

When an interviewer asks you about the outcome of your test taking, how do you answer? I know it’s obviously better to be honest, but what about when you’ve failed more than you’ve passed? Can they get your results from the NASBA without your permission?

Prior to my last interview, I had failed FAR, AUD, and BEC and had only passed REG. My resume says CPA Candidate, so the woman asked me if I had taken any parts of the exam. I told her I took and passed REG, but kept it at that. She continued to ask me about the other sections one by one. I tried to remain optimistic stating that although I have to retake the exams, I was close to passing (which was true). The vibe in the interview went downhill from there. She kept asking me about my exam strategy and how Becker is supposed to prepare you well. Long story short, I didn’t end up getting the job.

I’m interviewing with another accounting firm this week, but I’m nervous how to tackle the question again. Is it even worth telling them I’m studying since I failed so many times? Or does studying I general show initiative? I really need a job and really don’t want to feel like a jack*** again cause I’ve only passed one exam on my first try.

Anyone been through this? Advice?

Passed all sections.

[Anonymous]

If asked, say I've passed Reg and am studying for _______. That way it sounds like you are on a road map. Most people wont pressure you for tons of details. If you are pressed, turn it into something optimistic. Say something like, “although the outcome of the exam wasn't what I had hoped for, I learned a lot from my set back and look forward to winning that fight the next time.” All people can ask of you is to learn from your past and move forward.

[samdiegoCPA]

I would NEVER say I failed any part. Not that it's something to be embarrassed about, but they don't need to know about it. I give very vague details to people at work… I would just say “I've passed REG and working on the other three since as you know there is a strict timeframe you must pass them all within.” You don't need to say anything more.

AUD: 84
REG: 84
BEC: 79
FAR: 83

[h0wdyus]

@kls238

Was this a Big 4 interview or one of the reputed firms or was it for corporate accounting etc.

I would think if the interviewer is asking about exams passing, he expects an honest answer, so answer the question and don't emphasize the fact how many time have you taken the test.

FAR - 81 29th Aug 2013
AUD - 84
REG - 82
BEC - 89 29th Aug 2014
Using Yager

FROM NJ

[fuzyfro89]

I don't think it's a bad thing that you (or anyone) fails a part of the exam while going through the process, but it's just an awkward question to ask and I'm not really sure what the interviewer was getting toward.

In any case, I don't think they can look up anything in a background check from NASBA regarding your exam status. To most employers, either you passed all parts and are awaiting experience (also don't think they can confirm this other than getting score reports from you) or you have an active/lapsed license which can be verified fairly easily.

I would keep it to the point, and make it sound like you haven't taken any other parts, but if asked specifically, then tell the truth. Something like, “I have started the CPA exams and so far passed REG and have AUD scheduled for August. My plan is to take BEC is Q4 and FAR in Q1 2015.”

You don't need to specifically say you've been working on it for a while now, because some douchey people will judge you for not passing them all right away.

[Kls238]

Thanks everyone.

@samdiegoCPA, It wasn't my intention to say I failed. She kept asking about the other parts, so I didn't want to lie. It began to be awkward.

@h0wdyus, It was a smaller, regional firm.

Passed all sections.

[acamp]

Kinda weird that they pressed for that much extra detail; in any event, if someone trys to take you down that road again I would just be very plain in the fact that you failed some sections and are back on the horse, maybe discuss your new strategy, try to keep it light.

With a 40-something percent pass rate (I think lol), plllleeeeeeeenty of people have failed the thing. Its weird they dug into it, but they might have been using it as a way to assess how you bounce back and retool.

Self proclaimed: Highest ratio of Replies to Others v. Posts Created on A71

California CPA - Big4 Aud Manager Alum - Private Accounting at Startups

FAR, REG and BEC with Ninja Notes + WTB Only

Ninja + Wiley Test Bank: [FAR - 81] [REG - 76] [BEC - 88] [AUD - 73](doh!)

Becker Videos: [AUD - 82]

California CPA

[h0wdyus]

They could also be trying to negotiate a lower salary. 🙂

FAR - 81 29th Aug 2013
AUD - 84
REG - 82
BEC - 89 29th Aug 2014
Using Yager

FROM NJ

[Kls238]

Well, good news.. These interviewers didn't ask me about sections other than the ones mentioned. However, they did ask me what internal control was and how to document it. I probably sounded like such an idiot cause I was so caught off guard. Oh well.

Passed all sections.

[Anonymous]

Always good to have an answer for this just in case. I was asked if I passed the exams on the first try.

[samdiegoCPA]

I would still just say “yeah, I have passed three so far” and that's it. They can't access your account. Don't let them intimidate you into saying anything!

AUD: 84
REG: 84
BEC: 79
FAR: 83

[How many letters do you need]

From the sound of it she might have been digging for personal info. This is how people ask me about it when they or somebody they know is contemplating it. I agree though…would avoid if possible. If asked directly I always tell the truth and try to spin that shit like a Harlem Globetrotter….

MBA,CMA,CPA, CFF?, ABV?

[Author]

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