Passing the AICPA Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) exam is an essential step towards earning the CPA designation. The BEC exam assesses a candidate's understanding of the business environment, including financial management, corporate governance, economic concepts, and information technology. The BEC exam is a four-hour computer-based test consisting of 62 multiple-choice questions and four task-based simulations.
Exam Objectives:
- Corporate Governance (17%-27%)
- Economic Concepts and Analysis (17%-27%)
- Financial Management (11%-21%)
- Information Technology (15%-25%)
- Operations Management (15%-25%)
The BEC exam is suitable for candidates who want to earn their CPA designation and work in accounting, finance, or related fields. Candidates are required to have a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution and should have completed at least 24 semester hours in accounting, including courses in auditing, financial accounting, taxation, and managerial accounting. Candidates should also have completed at least 24 semester hours in business-related courses, such as economics, finance, business law, and information systems.
Exam Details:
The BEC exam is offered throughout the year at Prometric testing centers. The exam fee varies depending on the jurisdiction, but it is typically around $225. Candidates are required to achieve a minimum score of 75 to pass the exam.
The BEC exam is a computer-based test that consists of multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations. Candidates have four hours to complete the exam. The exam is delivered in a format that is similar to the real-world business environment, with questions that simulate the challenges faced by business professionals.
Related Books:
There are several books available that can help candidates prepare for the BEC exam:
- Wiley CPAexcel Exam Review 2022 Study Guide: Business Environment and Concepts by Wiley
- BEC Exam Review 2022: Business Environment and Concepts by Becker Professional Education
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) Exam Questions and Answers: 2022 Edition by Test Prep Books
- BEC Review Notes 2022: Business Environment and Concepts by Gleim
- CPA Exam For Dummies by Kenneth Boyd
These books cover the essential topics and concepts tested in the BEC exam, including financial management, corporate governance, economic concepts, information technology, and operations management. They also include practice questions and simulations to help candidates prepare for the exam.
Preparing for the BEC exam requires dedication, hard work, and discipline. Candidates should study consistently, develop a study plan, and practice answering questions and simulations. With the right preparation, candidates can pass the BEC exam and take a significant step towards their CPA designation.