Most candidates do well with 4–8 weeks at about an hour a day (roughly 30–60 hours total). Less if you have a strong accounting/business background; more if numbers and contracts are new to you. The goal isn't hours logged — it's hitting 80%+ consistently on the timed simulation.
Plan by readiness, not by a calendar
The Business & Finance exam is open book, 120 questions, 6.5 hours, 70% to pass. It rewards understanding plus fast reference navigation — not cramming. So your timeline depends on where you start:
- Strong background (you already run a business, do your own books): ~3–4 weeks, focus on the legal/lien/payroll-tax specifics and reference speed.
- Average (some exposure to estimating, contracts, payroll): ~5–6 weeks.
- New to the material (accounting and contract law feel unfamiliar): ~8 weeks, with extra time on the two biggest areas.
Where the hours should go
Spend time in proportion to the exam. Conducting Accounting Functions (32%) and Managing Administrative Duties (26%) are more than half the test — start there. Then Government Regulations (15%), Establishing the Business (11%), Trade Operations (10%), and Human Resources (6%). The full weighting is in the topics breakdown.
A simple weekly rhythm
- Weeks 1–2: Work the study guide one content area at a time; read the explanation on every question.
- Weeks 3–4: Switch to the practice quiz for recall; drill reference speed in the Open-Book Finder so you know which book holds each answer.
- Final weeks: Take the full 120-question timed simulation with your references open until you clear 80% with time to spare.
Because it's open book, a big chunk of "studying" is actually tabbing your books and getting fast at finding answers — most people skip this and run out of time on exam day.
Start the clock today
Take the free quiz to see where you stand, then build the habit. First 5 questions free — no account needed.