Why Is the CFE Challenging? Understanding the Hurdles — and How to Overcome Them
The Common Final Examination (CFE) is one of the toughest parts of the CPA Canada journey. It’s not just a test of technical knowledge — it’s a test of endurance, judgment, structure, and discipline. Many strong candidates struggle not because they lack intelligence, but because the CFE demands a very specific set of skills.
This guide breaks down why the CFE feels so challenging and, more importantly, how you can overcome each hurdle with confidence.
1. The CFE Is a Three‑Day Marathon — Not a Regular Exam
Most exams test memory.
The CFE tests thinking, writing, and decision‑making under pressure.
Why it’s challenging
Three consecutive days of writing
Long cases with heavy reading
Mental fatigue builds quickly
Each day tests different competencies
How to overcome it
Build stamina by writing full practice cases
Simulate exam conditions (timed, no breaks, no notes)
Focus on consistency, not perfection
2. It Requires Strong Case‑Writing Skills — Not Just Technical Knowledge
Many candidates know the technical rules but struggle to apply them in a case.
Why it’s challenging
You must identify issues quickly
You must structure responses clearly
You must integrate case facts
You must conclude decisively
How to overcome it
Use a consistent AO structure:
Issue → Criteria → Analysis → ConclusionPractice writing, not just reading solutions
Get your cases marked so you know what to fix
3. Time Management Is Brutal
Even strong writers run out of time.
Why it’s challenging
Day 2 and Day 3 have many AOs
Reading takes longer than expected
Quantitative AOs slow you down
Perfectionism kills timing
How to overcome it
Create a time budget before writing
Move on when time is up — even if unfinished
Write quantitative AOs first when possible
Aim for competent, not perfect
4. The Technical Breadth Is Huge
The CFE covers:
Financial Reporting
Management Accounting
Assurance
Tax
Finance
Strategy & Governance
Role‑specific depth
Why it’s challenging
You’re expected to know a little about everything — and a lot about your role.
How to overcome it
Build concise technical notes
Focus on high‑frequency topics
Practice AOs across all competency areas
Strengthen your role depth early
5. The Marking System Is Unique — and Confusing
The CFE uses:
RC (Reaching Competence)
C (Competent)
CD (Competent with Distinction)
NC (Not Competent)
NA (Not Addressed)
And you must pass four levels:
Level 1: Sufficiency
Level 2: Depth (FR or MA)
Level 3: Role
Level 4: Breadth
Why it’s challenging
You can fail even if you did well overall — if you miss depth or role requirements.
How to overcome it
Know exactly what each level requires
Aim for Cs in your role
Aim for depth in either FR or MA
Touch every AO to avoid NA
6. Stress, Pressure, and Self‑Doubt Build Up
The CFE is emotionally demanding.
Why it’s challenging
High stakes
Long study period
Fear of failing
Comparing yourself to others
How to overcome it
Follow a structured study plan
Practice mindfulness or short breaks
Surround yourself with supportive peers
Work with a coach who understands the process
Final Thoughts: You Can Absolutely Pass the CFE
The CFE is challenging — but it’s also predictable.
Once you understand the structure, build strong case‑writing habits, and practice intentionally, the exam becomes manageable.
You don’t need to be perfect.
You just need to be competent, consistent, and strategic.
And if you ever feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to improve, 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
