Wiley CPAexcel Exam Review 2014 Study Guide, Auditing and Attestation

Chapter 5: Exam Content Overview

The Auditing and Attestation section of the CPA exam tests the candidate’s knowledge primarily of AICPA auditing standards and procedures as they relate to the CPA’s functions in the examination of financial statements. However, the section also covers international auditing standards, accounting and review services, other attestation services, ethical standards issued by the AICPA, SEC, PCAOB, Department of Labor, and the GAO, and quality control standards. It also covers auditing standards for issuer (public) companies issued by the PCAOB and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. You will increase your chances for success if you have a recent copy of the codification of the Statements on Auditing Standards, Statements on Standards for Accounting and Review Services, Statements on Standards for Attestation Engagements, Statements on Quality Control Standards, and the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. The codified version, as opposed to the original pronouncements as issued, eliminates all superseded portions. The AICPA publishes the codification as the AICPA Professional Standards. Many university bookstores carry this source, as it is often required in undergraduate auditing courses. PCAOB standards are available on its website at www.pcaobus.org. An auditing textbook is also helpful.

This chapter reviews topics tested on the Auditing and Attestation section of the exam. Begin by performing a self-evaluation as suggested in the self-study program ...