CPALE Exam Guide
Everything you need to know about the Philippine Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination
Exam Overview
The Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination (CPALE) is administered by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board of Accountancy (BOA). It is a requirement for all accountancy graduates who wish to practice as licensed CPAs in the Philippines. The exam is governed by RA 9298, also known as the Philippine Accountancy Act of 2004.
Schedule
Twice a year (May & October)
Duration
2 days examination (3 subjects per day)
Format
Multiple choice & problem-solving
Exam Subjects
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
~17%Financial statements, accounting standards (PFRS/PAS), conceptual framework, and financial reporting
Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting (AFAR)
~17%Partnership, joint arrangements, business combinations, consolidated financial statements, and government accounting
Management Advisory Services (MAS)
~17%Cost accounting, management accounting, financial management, business strategy, and quantitative methods
Auditing
~17%Philippine Standards on Auditing (PSA), audit process, internal controls, audit evidence, and reporting
Taxation
~17%National internal revenue taxes, transfer taxes, local taxation, tax remedies, and tax compliance
Regulatory Framework for Business Transactions (RFBT)
~17%Business law, law on obligations and contracts, negotiable instruments, and regulatory bodies
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA) degree from a CHED-recognized school
- Transcript of Records (TOR)
- Certificate of Good Moral Character
- NSO/PSA Birth Certificate
- PRC application form
- Valid government-issued ID
- Passport-sized photos
- Application fee payment
Requirements may change. Always check the official PRC website for the most up-to-date information.
Study Tips
Start Early
Begin your review at least 3-6 months before the exam. This gives you time to cover all six subjects thoroughly.
Create a Study Schedule
Divide your study time among all subjects. Focus more on your weak areas while maintaining your strengths.
Practice with Mock Exams
Take timed practice tests to get familiar with the exam format and improve your time management.
Join Study Groups
Collaborate with fellow reviewees. Discussing concepts with others helps reinforce your understanding.
Stay Healthy
Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise. Your physical health directly affects your mental performance.
Review Your Mistakes
Learn from wrong answers. Understanding why you got something wrong is more valuable than just memorizing.
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