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
Start with the free study guide, then build the habit. 20 questions free, every answer explained — no account needed.