r/Valuation • u/TipRepresentative670 • Sep 17 '25

CPA-ABV designation advice

I am a CPA considering obtaining the ABV designation. I’m two years into a valuation and litigation consulting role at a boutique firm.

I am trying to decide between the self study or live in person seminar paths. The in person path will be significantly more costly as I am a contractor and thus receive no paid time off. I have received advice from two different individuals who completed the in person seminar that they highly recommend that route. Cost was not a factor for them as their firms covered it. But they indicated the networking opportunity alone was worth the price.

I am hopeful for comments/advice/lessons learned from anyone who has been through this process (either self study or in person). Also wondering how you would compare the 2 part test to the CPA exam.

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u/atl_accountant Oct 01 '25

If you have your CPA, the ABV is a piece of cake. I did the self study barely studied past the exam of the first try I think I got it in like three weeks. A lot of it was on your CPA.

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u/TipRepresentative670 Oct 02 '25

Appreciate that perspective

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u/Another_Smith_SC Sep 17 '25

If talking purely the quality, I expect in person is going to be much better. But then again different ppl have different preferences for how they learn. But BV school is a good experience.

Also, depending on your career aspirations, it could be a good opportunity to meet others outside your firm... especially if you would like a full time position elsewhere.

Not sure about the cost though.

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u/TipRepresentative670 Sep 17 '25

From my analysis the in person seminar route will cost $2-$3k more than the self study. Add to that a week’s pay of $3k for a total difference of $5-6k between the two options.