Data Analytics on the CPA Exam: What to Know

Given the explosion and popularity of Big Data, data analytics has expanded beyond IT to become an extremely important topic in accounting.

You’ve no doubt wondered – or even worried – about what data analytics mean for the industry and the CPA Exam. We have great news for you. While the AICPA blueprints were clarified to more fully articulate data analytics in both the AUD and BAR sections of the test, these clarifications do not mean a large shift in how these concepts are being tested.

To be sure you feel fully prepared, the UWorld CPA features new and revised lessons in both BAR and AUD on data analytics, big data, and data visualization.

What Is Data Analytics? How Is It Tested on the CPA Exam?

Accountants use data analytic outputs to assess business performance within the framework of GAAP and to identify trends and unusual items for deeper examination. The AICPA’s recently updated Blueprints detail the additions to the AUD CPA Exam and BAR CPA Exam sections. Essentially, you are expected to interpret the results of data analytic outputs, including reports and visualizations.

Please read our guide to the CPA exam sections to learn more about the core and the discipline sections of the CPA exam, including which section is the hardest and easiest.

However, please know that the actual scope and nature of the CPA Exam—the content being tested—are not changing. Adding data analytics will help you examine the concept already within the AICPA curriculum.

Get the Latest Study Materials

The UWorld CPA includes new and revised lessons on data analytics, big data, and data visualization. We’ve also added newly released AICPA questions and task-based simulations and provided even more guidance to help you master the material.

There’s no reason to wait to start studying. As a UWorld CPA course student, you will always have access to the most up-to-date study materials tested on the CPA Exam. All course students enjoy 100% free online updates and repeats until they pass the CPA Exam.

Get started with our popular UWorld CPA Elite-Unlimited Review Course now.