The FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting) section is often seen as the toughest part of the CPA Exam. Yet, many top scorers from India have aced the FAR CPA Exam, even on their first attempt. Here, we’ve gathered insights, strategies, and success stories to help you study smarter and crack FAR CPA Exam 2025 with confidence.
Overview: FAR CPA Exam 2025
The FAR CPA Exam (Financial Accounting and Reporting) is one of the four core sections of the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Exam. It tests your mastery of accounting and reporting frameworks for profit entities, not-for-profits, and government organizations.
FAR is widely regarded as the most challenging section due to its depth and breadth of content. Consequently, it consistently records one of the lowest pass rates among all CPA Exam sections.
Exam Structure: FAR CPA Exam 2025
Here’s the exam format for the FAR CPA Exam:
- Total Duration: 4 Hours
- Question Type: 50 MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions) + 7 TBS (Task-Based Simulations)
- Structure: 2 MCQ testlets + 3 TBS testlets
- Score Weightage: 50% MCQ and 50% TBS
Core Topics Covered in the FAR CPA Exam
1. Financial Reporting
- General-purpose frameworks
- SEC filings and disclosures
- Governmental accounting statements (fund-based, modified accrual)
2. Balance Sheet & Account-Level Transactions
- Cash, receivables, and inventory
- Fixed assets and depreciation
- Bonds, leases, and equity
3. Special Transactions
- Revenue recognition (ASC 606)
- Income tax (ASC 740)
- Consolidations and business combinations
- Fair value measurement (ASC 820)
Success Stories: Indian Toppers in the FAR CPA Exam
Sheenu Modi – Scored 96 in FAR Exam 2025
From Rewari, Haryana, Sheenu Modi cracked the FAR Exam with an impressive 96. Despite completing her BCA via open studies from Delhi University, she mastered FAR through a focused CPA preparation strategy.
Key Takeaways:
- Consistency: 2+ hours daily, double on weekends
- Blueprint-First Approach: Focused only on the AICPA Blueprint
- Daily Practice: Regular MCQs and TBS
Tip: “Stick to one plan. Don’t jump between resources. Master the blueprint and practice in real-time exam conditions.”
Aparna Maurya – Scored 92 in FAR Exam
Aparna, a Mumbai University B.Com graduate and CA, scored 92 in FAR. Currently working abroad, she proved that structured CPA coaching makes a huge difference.
Key Takeaways:
- Morning study + night revision
- Weekly Mock Tests on EduMont’s CPA platform
- Tracking weak areas to improve performance
Tip: “It’s not about how many hours you study. It’s about how focused and structured those times are.”
Saloni Bhanushali – Scored 90 in FAR Exam
Saloni from Mumbai, a CA + B.Com graduate, achieved 90 in FAR and paved her way toward global career opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- Flashcards & sticky notes for formulas/journal entries
- EduMont Game Plan Calls for feedback
- Mind mapping to connect concepts
Tip: “FAR isn’t hard if you understand the logic. Don’t just memorize, analyze.”
Nirav Shah – Scored 90 in FAR Exam
Nirav, a CA settled in Canada, scored 90 by balancing CPA Exam preparation with professional commitments.
Key Takeaways:
- EduMont Live Classes simplified complex FAR topics
- Early TBS practice for exam confidence
- Mock tests and authoritative literature practice
Tip: “If I can do it, so can you. Practice and structure made all the difference.”
Top Scorer Study Strategies for the FAR Exam
Based on CPA toppers’ strategies in India, here are proven tips:
- Structure a Long-Term Study Plan – 8–10 weeks of focused prep.
- Master the Blueprint – Prioritize high-weight CPA Exam topics.
- Recall & Repeat – Use flashcards for journal entries, formulas.
- MCQ Practice with Purpose – Understand both correct and incorrect answers.
- Simulate Exam Conditions – Take full-length CPA practice exams.
Time Management Techniques for FAR Exam Candidates
- MCQs: 25 per testlet → ~50 minutes
- TBS: 7 simulations → ~110 minutes (~17–18 minutes each)
- Don’t dwell—mark and revisit tough questions.
- Track weak areas with notes or a study tracker.
Why TBS Can Make or Break Your FAR Exam Score
Since 50% of the FAR Exam score comes from Task-Based Simulations (TBS), candidates must practice them early.
Pro Tip: Even partial answers earn credit—never leave TBS blank.
How EduMont Helps You Ace the FAR CPA Exam
EduMont CPA Coaching provides:
- Expert-led live classes for complex FAR topics
- CPA study material aligned with the AICPA blueprint
- Regular mock tests & quizzes for progress tracking
- Personalized mentoring through Game Plan Calls
- Time-saving CPA exam strategies
Final Takeaway: Crack the FAR CPA Exam with Confidence
The FAR Exam is not just about memory—it’s about strategy, consistency, and structured CPA preparation. With the right plan and expert CPA coaching, you too can ace the FAR section.
If they can do it, so can you.
Plan smart. Practice hard. Stay consistent. You’ve got this!
Shubham Shandilya
He is a licensed US CPA and the Lead Faculty at EduMont Classes. He specializes in preparing students for all four sections of the US CPA Exam: AUD, BEC, FAR, and REG. With over a few years of experience in both industry practice and CPA coaching, Shubham brings a unique blend of real-world financial insight and effective exam strategies to the classroom.
