CPA Australia exam structure

Multiple Choice Questions

All exams have multiple choice questions (MCQs), except for Singapore Taxation. These questions can take three different forms:

1. A question with one correct answer – this is the most common type
2. A question with multiple correct answers, where you are required to select all of the correct options to secure the mark available (only in Digital Finance)
3. Vignette style questions, which is where you will read a short case study with a number of single answer multiple choice questions in response (in Digital Finance and Global Strategy & Leadership).

Extended Response Questions

All subjects, except for Advanced Audit & Assurance, Contemporary Business Issues and Financial Risk Management, have extended response questions (ERQ).

The most common ERQ is a written response question, where you will read a case study and write an answer in a free text field.

Some subjects (Digital Finance, Financial Reporting and Strategic Management Accounting) will have Worksheet style ERQ, where you are required to input your answer only in numerical format. You will be instructed on how many decimal places are required in your answer. You are not able to show your working in these questions.

Practicing question types

The Study Shortcut Gold package includes lots of practice questions in the MCQ format. Our GSL package includes the Vignette Style MCQ so you can practice this unique (and tricky!) question format.

The Study Shortcut Platinum package includes ERQ practice exams, which are marked by our tutors, so that you can get personalised feedback on your attempts. Our feedback is focused on both the content of your answers and your exam technique – we provide tips on how to structure your answer and how much to write, to ensure you maximise the time available in the exam.

Please reach out if you would like to learn more about our packages and how they can help you prepare for your CPA Australia exams.