We asked Kevin for his honest reflections on the path to licensure, and he generously shared his story!
Kevin'S Story
My journey started nine years ago, filled with stops and starts. Between 2016 and 2019, I only took two sections and passed one, often questioning whether to continue since I already had my EA and focused on tax work.
In 2020, I committed fully—quit my job to study full-time—but things didn’t go as planned. I only passed FAR and REG, then struggled with the last two sections until my scores expired. After a two-year break (2022–2023), I made a final attempt in 2024 and discovered that my expired scores were reinstated due to the CPA exam evolution, which extended previously expired scores until June 30, 2025—a lucky break, especially since BEC was removed.
I took the new Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP) exam in October, passed easily in December, and then faced my final challenge—AUD, a section I had failed four times. This time, I hired a 1-on-1 tutor, and finally, I passed.
Seeing that passing score was a huge relief—not just for me, but for my family, friends, and colleagues who supported me.
My Advice
If you fail, don’t just repeat the same study methods—find a new approach. Many don’t pass all four sections on the first try, and that’s okay. Just don’t be lazy like I was! Now, I’m focused on doing my job and continuously improving my work.
CongRatulations Kevin!
Please join us in congratulating Kevin on this major accomplishment! We hope Kevin’s story is an encouragement to you if you are also on this journey. Passing these exams and reaching the final goal of certification is a big commitment and success is always worth celebrating.