Are you gearing up to take the IRS Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) to become an enrolled agent (EA)? Congratulations on taking this crucial step toward advancing your career in taxation. As you prepare to sit for the SEE exam, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. However, with the proper preparation and resources, you can approach exam day with confidence and increase your chances of success.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect on exam day, offer valuable tips for preparation and highlight the benefits of using Surgent EA Review to streamline your study process.

What to Expect on Exam Day

Before diving into preparation tips, let’s discuss what you can expect when you sit for the SEE exam:

  • Test format: The SEE exam consists of three parts: Individuals, Businesses, and Representation, Practice and Procedures. Each part contains multiple-choice questions, and you will have three-and-a-half hours to complete each.
  • Test environment: Exams are administered at Prometric testing centers, ensuring a controlled and professional testing environment. Be sure to arrive early, bring valid identification, and familiarize yourself with the center’s policies.
  • Question types: Questions on the SEE exam cover a range of tax-related topics, including taxation of individuals, businesses and representation before the IRS. Expect scenario-based questions that test your understanding of tax laws and regulations.
  • Scoring and passing: To pass each part of the exam, you need a score of 105 or higher out of 130. If you don’t pass a section, you can retake it, but there are limits on how many times you can retake each part within a testing period.

EA Exam Prep Tips

Now that you know what to expect, let’s explore some practical tips and strategies to prepare for the SEE exam:

  • Create a study schedule: Develop a study schedule that allocates time for reviewing each exam section. Consistent, focused study sessions will help you cover all necessary material and reinforce your understanding.
  • Utilize quality resources: Invest in reputable study materials, such as Surgent EA Review, to streamline your preparation. Surgent offers industry-leading Predictive AI Technology, which tailors your study plan to focus on areas where you need the most improvement.
  • Practice with mock exams: Take advantage of practice exams provided by Surgent, which include the innovative ReadySCORE™ feature. This feature provides real-time feedback on your performance and predicts what you would score on the exam if you took it that day. It’s an invaluable tool for gauging your readiness and identifying areas for improvement.
  • Seek 1-on-1 coaching: If you struggle with test anxiety or feel overwhelmed by the exam process, consider enrolling in Surgent’s 1-on-1 coaching sessions. These personalized sessions can help alleviate fears, build a customized study plan and provide additional support and motivation.
  • Stay updated on tax laws: Keep abreast of changes to tax laws and regulations leading up to the exam. The IRS regularly updates its guidelines, so studying the most current information is essential to ensure success on exam day.

Benefits of Surgent EA Review

Choosing the right study materials can significantly impact your exam preparation. Here’s why Surgent EA Review stands out:

  • Predictive AI Technology: Surgent’s Predictive AI Technology assesses your strengths and weaknesses and adjusts your study plan accordingly. This personalized approach maximizes efficiency and ensures you focus on areas needing improvement.
  • ReadySCORE: The ReadySCORE feature provides instant feedback on your practice exam performance, giving you a clear indication of your readiness for the actual exam. It simulates exam conditions and helps alleviate test anxiety by providing a realistic assessment of your skills.
  • 1-on-1 coaching sessions: Surgent offers individual coaching sessions to provide personalized guidance and support. Whether you need help overcoming test anxiety or developing a strategic study plan, these sessions can help you stay on track and confident throughout your preparation journey.

FAQs About the IRS SEE Exam


Navigating the intricacies of the IRS Special Enrollment Examination can be daunting, especially for candidates embarking on their journey to become enrolled Agents. As you prepare for this pivotal exam, it’s essential to address common concerns and questions that may arise along the way.

In this section, we’ll delve into some of the most pressing inquiries candidates have about the SEE exam process, providing clarity and guidance to support your preparation efforts. From understanding exam retake policies to learning about result timelines, we’re here to equip you with the knowledge you need to confidently tackle the SEE exam and achieve your goal of becoming an enrolled agent.

How do I register for the SEE exam?

To register for the SEE exam, candidates must create an account on the IRS website and complete the registration process online. During registration, you will select the exam parts you wish to take and choose a testing window that aligns with your schedule. Once registered, you will receive confirmation of your exam appointment and instructions for scheduling your test date at a Prometric testing center.

How many times can I take the SEE exam?

You can retake each part of the SEE exam as many times as necessary within a testing period. However, there are limits on how many times you can retake each part within a specific timeframe, so it’s essential to check the IRS guidelines for the most up-to-date information.

How long does it take to get EA Exam results?

After completing the exam, you’ll receive your unofficial scores immediately. Official scores typically arrive within a few weeks of testing. Be sure to monitor your email for notifications from the IRS regarding your results.

Preparing for the IRS SEE exam requires dedication, focus, and quality study materials. By following the tips outlined in this guide and leveraging resources like Surgent EA Review, you can approach exam day with confidence and increase your chances of passing each section on your first attempt. Remember to stay disciplined, stay informed and believe in your ability to succeed.

Master the IRS SEE Exam With Surgent

Embarking on the journey to become an enrolled agent through the IRS Special Enrollment Examination requires thorough preparation and strategic study methods. Throughout this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored what candidates can expect on exam day, provided valuable tips for effective preparation, and highlighted the advantages of utilizing Surgent EA Review as a trusted study companion.

By understanding the test format, test environment, question types and scoring criteria, candidates can approach the SEE exam with confidence and clarity. Developing a structured study schedule, utilizing quality study materials, and practicing with mock exams are essential strategies to maximize preparation efforts. Additionally, staying updated on current tax laws and seeking personalized support through 1-on-1 coaching sessions can further enhance readiness and performance on exam day.

Surgent EA Review offers several unique benefits that set it apart as an invaluable resource for EA exam preparation. Ultimately, studying with Surgent EA Review equips candidates with the tools, resources and support needed to succeed on the SEE exam and advance their tax careers. With Surgent’s predictive AI technology, personalized coaching and comprehensive study materials, candidates can confidently navigate the exam process and emerge as qualified enrolled agents ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of taxation. Start your journey to becoming an enrolled agent today with Surgent EA Review and take the first step toward a rewarding and fulfilling career in tax services.