Visit the Kaplan website and read over the facts about the CPA exam to make sure you qualify to take the test. Individual states' Boards of Accountancy set the requirements for exam eligibility in their jurisdiction, but typically candidates must have completed an undergraduate degree in accounting. Find out your eligibility by clicking on the CPA Exam facts tab and choosing the "Am I eligible to take the CPA Exam" question. There you will find a highlighted link that reads requirements for the CPA exam.
Click on the link and then choose your state from the map. Read through the requirements and make sure you have met at least the minimum or you will not be able to register for the test. In Mississippi, for example, you must be a permanent resident or have an office in the state, in addition to your degree, in order to qualify to take the exam.
Take the free practice test designed by Kaplan and Hoyle at Kaplan Schweser's CPA review website. This sample test will allow you to complete multiple choice questions in each of the four testing categories. Check your answers when you have finished, and pay attention to the areas where you struggled.
Choose the type of study preparation program that works best for you. Keep in mind that the Hoyle and Kaplan program can be expensive, so you will want to devote significant time to studying to make it worth the cost. The self-study review course uses video CDs, online study tools, printable handouts and online instructors to answer your questions. You can purchase this program by the section or altogether depending on your areas of strength and weakness that you noticed in the practice test. One section is about $400, while buying all four will cost you about $1,400. The live online course costs the same and can be purchased in the same manner, but instead features interactive real-time class sessions offered in the evenings as well as the same additional studying tools.
Purchase your program and follow it exactly to make sure that you are properly using Kaplan and Hoyle's methods to prepare for the exam. If you are unsure about a sample question or concept, do not hesitate to use the real-time or online instructors as sources of information.