How to Balance CPA CFE Studies With Work During Busy Season
Busy season is intense — whether you’re in public practice (Big 4, mid‑size, or small firm) or in industry dealing with year‑end, audits, and deadlines. Trying to study for the CFE at the same time can feel overwhelming. But with the right strategy, you can stay consistent, protect your mental health, and keep your CFE goals on track.
Here are five practical tips inspired by successful CFE writers to help you balance work and study during the busiest months of the year.
1. Use a Weekly Planner to Stay Grounded
A planner is your anchor during busy season.
Use it to map out:
Work deadlines
Study blocks
Personal time
Breaks and buffer days
Write down everything you need to accomplish that week. Seeing your commitments visually helps you stay realistic and flexible.
Some days will be tougher than others — and that’s okay. A planner lets you adjust without guilt because you can see the full picture of your week.
2. List Your Topics by Difficulty
Not all study days need to be heavy.
Create two lists:
Challenging topics
Easier topics
On hectic workdays, focus on the easier topics so you still make progress. This prevents the “I didn’t study today” guilt spiral that leads to stress and reduced productivity.
On lighter workdays, tackle the harder topics when your mind is fresher.
3. Take Breaks and Stay Active
Burnout hits fast when you combine busy season with CFE prep.
Protect your energy by:
Taking short breaks
Going for a walk
Stretching
Drinking water
Getting fresh air
Your brain retains more when it’s rested. Studying while exhausted leads to poor comprehension and frustration. A refreshed mind learns faster.
4. Write Notes in Your Own Words
Even if you have summaries from classmates or mentors, create your own notes.
Why?
You remember better when you write in your own voice
Your notes become quick‑review flashcards
You can study them during micro‑breaks at work
They’re easier to recall under exam pressure
Keep them short, simple, and personal.
5. Commit Mentally — Decide and Don’t Look Back
If you’ve chosen to write the May CFE, commit fully.
Busy season will require extra hours and discipline, but the reward is huge:
You get your summer back
You avoid stretching your studies into September
You build momentum and confidence
Take a moment to breathe, reset, and remind yourself:
YOU CAN. YOU WILL. YOU MUST.
A strong mindset is half the battle.
Final Thoughts
Balancing CFE studies with busy season is challenging — but absolutely doable with structure, flexibility, and the right mindset. You don’t need perfection; you need consistency.
If you ever feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to structure your study plan, support is available.
If you need help in your CPA Canada Coaching, please feel free to reach out:
RavGun CPA Academy
https://www.ravguncpaacademy.com/
+1 437 833 9540
