According to the AICPA, “the CPA Exam will be transformed” when planned changes to both the exam’s structure and content are implemented on January 1, 2011. Referred to as CBT-e (CBT stands for Computer-Based Testing and the “e” for evolution), this represents the first major change since CBT was introduced in 2004.

　　These changes are not only significant and numerous—in effect a “new exam” according to AICPA—they are all scheduled to go into effect at once. They include:

　　·New Content and Skill Specifications (CSOs/SSOs), including International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

　　·New question formats, including short task-based simulations.

　　·New research functionality that includes the FASB Codification.

　　·New exam structure and section time allocations.

　　·Changes in the percentage value of examination components.

　　You still have time to minimize the impact.

　　Don’t delay sitting for the exam because of the upcoming changes. You still have a window of opportunity to minimize the impact. It’s a good idea to think strategically about the parts you want to get out of the way in 2010, such as:

　　Business - if writing skills aren’t your strong suit, then you might want to sit for BEC in 2010. Right now BEC has no writing skills, but writing skills will be moving from FIN, AUD, and REG to BEC in 2011.

　　Financial - if you are not familiar with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), then you might want to sit for FAR in 2010. Starting in 2011, FAR will include questions on IFRS. You will be expected to identify and understand the difference between financial statements prepared on the basis of U.S. GAAP and those prepared on the basis of IFRS.

　　With Becker, you can purchase our 2010 CPA Exam Review now and request the 2011 version for those parts you've already purchased but have not yet passed as of January 1, 2011, as long as you have time remaining on your license.

　　Count on Becker to prepare you to pass.

　　As the most trusted name in CPA review for more than 50 years, Becker Professional Education prepares you for success on the CPA Exam. Our subject matter specialists and exam experts are retooling all of our 2011 course components to ensure they mirror the content, structure and functionally of the 2011 exam in every way. Our 2011 CPA Exam Review will be released in November of 2010, giving you ample time to prepare for the parts you plan to take in 2011.