The REG (Regulations) section of the CPA exam aims to test candidates’ understanding of taxation. The REG CPA Exam has two sections - taxation and law. Although the topics are relatively similar, each topic is very extensive.
REG enables candidates have a firm understanding of tax concepts along with practical application of the concepts. Candidates without any taxation experience or for whom memorizing tax facts and data section is not a forte may find this section particularly difficult.
The REG examination takes overall 4 hours. Candidates are not expected to use up all the allotted time. There are 76 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and 8 Task-Based simulations (TBSs). Out of the MCQs there are 64 operational questions, 12 are pre-tested and do not contribute towards examination score. There is no basic difference apart from scoring among operational and pretested questions.
Along with multiple choice Questions (MCQs) and Task based simulations (TBS) students are also tested on written communication.
REG is quite a difficult subject to crack and students struggle with taxation concepts. If you are not that great with taxation, it is a good idea to prioritize preparation for REG. It is also recommended that you may consider preparing after FAR because there is a lot of similarity between the two subjects as there is a fair amount of overlap.
It is also highly recommended to get well versed in excel software as it would be heavily used in your work as well as study journey. Additionally, simulation practice examinations which are also required to get well versed with taxation concepts. It is suggested to spend more time on Federal taxation procedure because almost 55% - 85% of your exam would be based on it.