How to Become a CPA

Everything you need to know about becoming
a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

CPA Careers Quick Links

CPA Requirements

We'll walk you through all the educational and licensing requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant

CPA Career Blogs

Explore the latest information on CPA industry trends, exam study tips, career advice, inspirational stories, and much more.

CPA Career Videos

Enjoy videos about the CPA Exam, becoming a CPA, and trending topics within the CPA industry and profession.

Questions & Answers

Have questions about a career as a CPA? Our Q&As provide in-depth guidance on everything you need to know.

Become a CPA Resources

The CPA credential is considered the gold standard certificate in the accounting profession and provides recipients with a diverse range of career path options. CPAs are also regarded as trusted business advisors and members of a highly respected and prestigious profession.

Become a CPA Requirements

Education Requirements

A bachelor's degree in accounting and 120-150 credit hours of academic coursework is required to become a CPA. Find out how many credit hours your state requires to sit for the exam.

License Requrements

Earning a CPA license requires meeting the educational requirements, passing the CPA Exam, and obtaining general accounting experience.

CPA Career Outlook

Salary & Compensation

How Much Do Accountants Make? Find out how getting your CPA license could affect your yearly income.

CPA Career Paths

Starting a career as a CPA is a smart choice because the profession offers many diverse opportunities and career paths from which to choose.

CPA Outlook & Trends

The CPA profession is showing an uptick in hiring trends for 2021. Find out why it's a good day to be a CPA and all the benefits that come with the credential.

Getting Hired as a CPA

It's important that as you're entering the CPA profession to take the time needed to research, apply for, and interview with an accounting firm whose company culture aligns with your values.

Negotiating as a CPA

If you've received a salary offer that is lower than expected, find out how to work with your future employer to get a more competitive offer.

Resume & Cover Letters

A well-crafted cover letter and resume provides a potential employer an opportunity to know more about you. Find out the best way to craft both and how to stand out to a future employer.

Interviewing as a CPA

Interviewing for a position with an accounting firm is a great opportunity; albeit sometimes stressful. Find out what steps you can take to be prepared for the big interview.

Networking as a CPA

CPA Career Networking

Networking for a job or to connect with colleagues requires strategic thinking while learning how to develop interpersonal skills. We can show you how to build your professional network opportunity as valuable as possible.

Meet the Firms Events

Meet the Firms is an important event for college students who are accounting majors. Learn what it takes to stand out from the crowd and connect with your future firm.

Working With Recruitors

It's easy to work effectively with a recruiter if you know how to communicate with them. Learn how to build the right relationships to land your dream job.

CPA Career Blogs

Get access to the latest information on a CPA Career, networking tips,
career advice, and career trends within the profession.

how-the-cpa-license-can-boost-your-career-to-the-next-level

CPA Life

How the CPA License Can Boost Your Career to the Next Level

Still on the fence about whether or not you should take the CPA Exam? Be ambivalent no more! Although the CPA Exam has gained fame as one of the toughest exams…

CPA

Top 10 Career Tips from Powerful Women

Although there’s still many lengths to go, equal rights for women have made great strides. In honor of International Women’s Day, here are 10 pieces of advice…

CPA

Leadership Skills for Your CPA Career

Leadership Skills: An Important Factor for Career Advancement The old nature vs. nurture debate is one of the most dated in psychology. Back in the day, the…

CPA

The Key to a Fulfilling Career (and Life)

Corey Ciocchetti, popular Ethics and Leadership speaker and Professor at University of Denver, talks about what the most important things are to successfully…

how to enter accounting as a second career

CPA Career

How to Enter Accounting as a Second Career

Thinking about going the accounting route for a change of career? Learn what you can do to help yourself in the process!

4-reasons-why-the-cpa-designation-is-important-for-your-career

CPA

4 Reasons Why the CPA Designation is Important to Your Career

Find out why the CPA designation is so valuable for your career.

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CPA Career Videos

Whether you are just beginning to explore the career possibilities a CPA license has to offer or nearing eligibility to sit for the CPA Exam, our Learning Center has video content and resources to prepare you for success.

CPA Career Q&A

Have questions about a career as a CPA? Our CPA Career Q&As provide in-depth guidance on everything
you need to know about how to prepare and succeed in the CPA profession.

How much money does a CPA make?

Robert Half International found that accounting professionals with a professional certification such as CPA or master’s degree make 5%-15% more on average.

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Do I have to choose a career within either audit or tax?

As a CPA, you do not have to choose a career in either audit or tax. There are a wide variety of career options available.

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What else can I do with my CPA license other than Public Accounting?

Other than Public Accounting, you can choose a career in a private company, with a government agency, non-profit organization, or university.

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What is the difference between a CPA and an Accountant?

CPAs have met licensing requirements for the state, which vary but typically include education beyond a typical bachelor's degree, documented experience, and passing the CPA exam.

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What other firm employment opportunities are there besides the Big 4?

Besides the Big 4, there are medium-sized, regional, and small firms that provide employment opportunities.

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What career options are available that require a CPA License?

Within public accounting, one can also provide services in specialized areas like financial forensics, business valuation, personal financial planning, and IT consulting.

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