So I just got my results back yesterday and I passed with a 78, which honestly felt like winning the lottery after how my first attempt went in February. I'd been working as a payroll administrator for about three years but completely underestimated how detailed the exam gets on compliance and regulatory stuff. First time around I scored a 61 — embarrassing, but whatever.
What changed: I stopped just reading the FPC study guide cover to cover and actually started doing timed PAR practice test sets every single day for six weeks. Like, sitting down at 7am before work and hammering through 30-40 questions. I also found that the tax withholding and garnishment sections were where I kept dropping points, so I spent extra time there instead of reviewing stuff I already knew cold.
Anyone else prepping right now? Happy to share the specific exam tips that helped me most, especially around the multistate payroll questions which are a total trap if you're not ready for them. What areas are giving you the most trouble?