CPA Questions & Answers

Have questions about the CPA Exam? We’ve answered some of the toughest and most frequently asked questions about the CPA Exam, requirements, education and more!

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What is a chartered accountant?

CPA Questions & Answers What is a chartered accountant? A Chartered Accountant is a title that is an internationally recognized professional designation and is generally equivalent to the CPA designation. The designation is a combination of academic and professional training. ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up to Learn More! Join our mailing list

What is a chartered accountant? Read More

Do I need to earn a Master’s Degree to complete the 150-hour education requirement?

CPA Questions & Answers Do I need to earn a Master’s Degree to complete the 150-hour education requirement? No, you do not need to earn a Master’s degree in order to complete the 150-unit education requirement. Another (less expensive) option is to earn the necessary units by taking additional classes from an accredited college or

Do I need to earn a Master’s Degree to complete the 150-hour education requirement? Read More

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

CPA Questions & Answers 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. Small firms are a great way to gain the knowledge and experience you need on a less overwhelming level. Also, small firms provide more opportunities

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

What is the difference between a CPA and an Accountant?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the difference between a CPA and an Accountant? CPAs have met licensing requirements for the state in which they practice accounting. State licensing requirements vary but typically include 150 hours of education (30 hours beyond the typical 120-hour bachelor’s degree in accounting). Licensing requirements also always include some documented

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What is the difference between a CPA and a Chartered Accountant?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the difference between a CPA and a Chartered Accountant? CPAs have met licensing requirements for the state in which they practice accounting. State licensing requirements vary but typically include 150 hours of education (30 hours beyond the typical 120-hour bachelor’s degree in accounting). Licensing requirements also always include some

What is the difference between a CPA and a Chartered Accountant? Read More

If I want to work internationally or move across the country, when should I mention this in the interview process?

CPA Questions & Answers If I want to work internationally or move across the country, when should I mention this in the interview process? Preferably, indicate your willingness to relocate for a position in the summary section of your résumé by specifying your relocation availability or preference. Your cover letter is the perfect place to

If I want to work internationally or move across the country, when should I mention this in the interview process? Read More

How much money does a CPA make?

CPA Questions & Answers How much money does a CPA make? In its 2015 salary guide, the finance recruitment firm Robert Half International stated that accounting professionals with a professional certification or master’s degree make 5% to 15% more, on average, with a CPA being the most desired credential. For example, the Robert Half range for a

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CFA vs CPA?

CPA Questions & Answers CFA vs CPA? CPAs have met licensing requirements for the state in which they practice accounting. State licensing requirements vary but typically include 150 hours of education (30 hours beyond the typical 120-hour bachelor’s degree in accounting). Licensing requirements also always include some documented experience and achieving a passing score on

CFA vs CPA? Read More

Why should I get a CPA license over a different accounting certification?

CPA Questions & Answers Why should I get a CPA license over a different accounting certification? Although becoming a CPA is a difficult process, it is worth the effort. Earning a CPA license demonstrates a commitment to the profession and often highlights potential candidates for leadership and management positions. Due to a shortage in experienced

Why should I get a CPA license over a different accounting certification? Read More

What is the difference in culture between private, public, and governmental firms?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the difference in culture between private, public, and governmental firms? The main difference in culture is based on whom the accountant is serving. Public accountants serve different clients. Therefore, the focus is on the external client which usually means long hours and business professional dress code. Private accountants work for one

What is the difference in culture between private, public, and governmental firms? Read More

If I purchase a CPA Exam review course now, will the materials still be relevant after the 2021 CPA Exam changes go into effect January 1, 2021?

CPA Questions & Answers ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up to Learn More! Join our mailing list today to get notified of new discount offers, course updates, Roger CPA Review news, and more! Get Access

If I purchase a CPA Exam review course now, will the materials still be relevant after the 2021 CPA Exam changes go into effect January 1, 2021? Read More

Who writes the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers Who writes the CPA Exam? The CPA Exam is developed, maintained and scored by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up to Learn More! Join our mailing list today to get notified of new discount offers, course updates, Roger CPA Review news,

Who writes the CPA Exam? Read More

Which state has the easiest requirements to become a CPA?

Each of the 55 US jurisdictions has its own Board of Accountancy that is responsible for licensing the CPAs who practice in that state/jurisdiction. Therefore, it is recommended to get licensed in the state in which you will practice regardless of the requirements.

If you are an international candidate and the jurisdiction is not important, then there are certain states with the most favorable U.S. CPA Exam requirements for international candidates based on the educational and work requirements.

However, rules and regulations are always changing, so be sure to double check these requirements with each of the State Boards before applying.

Which state has the easiest requirements to become a CPA? Read More

After I pass the CPA Exam, how long do I have to complete the rest of the requirements for licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers After I pass the CPA Exam, how long do I have to complete the rest of the requirements for licensure? Once you pass all parts of CPA Exam, your scores do not expire. In some jurisdictions, there is a time limit on completing the additional requirements for licensure, so be sure

After I pass the CPA Exam, how long do I have to complete the rest of the requirements for licensure? Read More

Can overseas work experience count towards my required hours for CPA Licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers Can overseas work experience count towards my required hours for CPA Licensure? It depends on the state/jurisdiction in which you decide to obtain your license. Many states accept non-public work experience as long as it is verified under the supervision of a CPA. ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up

Can overseas work experience count towards my required hours for CPA Licensure? Read More

Does my work experience have to come from a public accounting firm?

CPA Questions & Answers Does my work experience have to come from a public accounting firm? Your work experience requirement is based on your state/jurisdiction. Most states/jurisdictions require at least two years of public accounting experience. However, many states/jurisdictions also accept non-public accounting experience (e.g., industry, government), although the number of years deemed acceptable are

Does my work experience have to come from a public accounting firm? Read More

If I plan on working in a provisionary state, am I able to sit for the CPA Exam early in a non-provisionary state?

CPA Questions & Answers If I plan on working in a provisionary state, am I able to sit for the CPA Exam early in a non-provisionary state? A non-provisionary state will not allow you to test without first meeting the education requirements. A provisionary state is a state that gives CPA Exam candidates a provisionary

If I plan on working in a provisionary state, am I able to sit for the CPA Exam early in a non-provisionary state? Read More

If I sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, can I take the remaining sections in a different state?

CPA Questions & Answers If I sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, can I take the remaining sections in a different state? If you sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, then you can transfer your CPA exam scores to another state. After paying a fee

If I sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, can I take the remaining sections in a different state? Read More

Which state has the easiest requirements to become a CPA?

Each of the 55 US jurisdictions has its own Board of Accountancy that is responsible for licensing the CPAs who practice in that state/jurisdiction. Therefore, it is recommended to get licensed in the state in which you will practice regardless of the requirements.

If you are an international candidate and the jurisdiction is not important, then there are certain states with the most favorable U.S. CPA Exam requirements for international candidates based on the educational and work requirements.

However, rules and regulations are always changing, so be sure to double check these requirements with each of the State Boards before applying.

Which state has the easiest requirements to become a CPA? Read More

As an International CPA candidate, where can I have my educational transcript evaluated to see if I am eligible to sit for the US CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up to Learn More! Join our mailing list today to get notified of new discount offers, course updates, Roger CPA Review news, and more! Get Access

As an International CPA candidate, where can I have my educational transcript evaluated to see if I am eligible to sit for the US CPA Exam? Read More

Does a Notice to Schedule (NTS) expire and should I apply to sit for all 4 sections of the CPA Exam before it expires?

CPA Questions & Answers Does a Notice to Schedule (NTS) expire and should I apply to sit for all 4 sections of the CPA Exam before it expires? Yes, the Notice to Schedule (NTS) expires. It is valid for 90 days to 9 months, depending on your jurisdiction, and will state the earliest and latest

Does a Notice to Schedule (NTS) expire and should I apply to sit for all 4 sections of the CPA Exam before it expires? Read More

I studied internationally, but not all of my credits transferred to my US campus. Will they still count for the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers I studied internationally, but not all of my credits transferred to my US campus. Will they still count for the CPA Exam? The 150-hour semester hours must be earned from an accredited university. Therefore, if your credits are not recognized and not earned from an accredited university, then they will not

I studied internationally, but not all of my credits transferred to my US campus. Will they still count for the CPA Exam? Read More

I studied internationally, but not all of my credits transferred to my US campus. Will they still count for the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers I studied internationally, but not all of my credits transferred to my US campus. Will they still count for the CPA Exam? The 150-hour semester hours must be earned from an accredited university. Therefore, if your credits are not recognized and not earned from an accredited university, then they will not

I studied internationally, but not all of my credits transferred to my US campus. Will they still count for the CPA Exam? Read More

How do I approach recruiting season if I’ve been denied a full-time offer after an internship?

CPA Questions & Answers How do I approach recruiting season if I’ve been denied a full-time offer after an internship? If you have been denied a full-time offer after an internship, try the following solutions: Become aggressive in your job search Utilize your school’s career services to help you find employment, including counseling sessions and

How do I approach recruiting season if I’ve been denied a full-time offer after an internship? Read More

If I have not been involved in extracurricular activities during college, what can I do to network?

CPA Questions & Answers If I have not been involved in extracurricular activities during college, what can I do to network? A great way to network is to use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Make sure that your posts are professional (not personal) and follow recruiters. Also, there are companies specifically designed for networking. Conduct

If I have not been involved in extracurricular activities during college, what can I do to network? Read More

What skills are accounting industry recruiters looking for?

CPA Questions & Answers What skills are accounting industry recruiters looking for? Accounting industry recruiters are looking for, at a minimum: A basic understanding of accounting principles Ambitiousness and goal-oriented personalities Technical skills Great team players Excellent communication skills (natural, engaging conversation is a MUST with clients) Learn more about what recruiters are looking for

What skills are accounting industry recruiters looking for? Read More

Can volunteering count towards the work experience required for CPA Licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers Can volunteering count towards the work experience required for CPA Licensure? For most states, volunteering counts towards work experience for CPA licensure. The work experience requirements vary by jurisdiction, therefore, check your jurisdiction’s specific requirements. ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up to Learn More! Join our mailing list today to

Can volunteering count towards the work experience required for CPA Licensure? Read More

If I sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, can I take the remaining sections in a different state?

CPA Questions & Answers If I sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, can I take the remaining sections in a different state? If you sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, then you can transfer your CPA exam scores to another state. After paying a fee

If I sit for one section of the CPA Exam in one state, can I take the remaining sections in a different state? Read More

Which state has the easiest requirements to become a CPA?

Each of the 55 US jurisdictions has its own Board of Accountancy that is responsible for licensing the CPAs who practice in that state/jurisdiction. Therefore, it is recommended to get licensed in the state in which you will practice regardless of the requirements.

If you are an international candidate and the jurisdiction is not important, then there are certain states with the most favorable U.S. CPA Exam requirements for international candidates based on the educational and work requirements.

However, rules and regulations are always changing, so be sure to double check these requirements with each of the State Boards before applying.

Which state has the easiest requirements to become a CPA? Read More

Do I need to earn a Master’s Degree to complete the 150-hour education requirement?

CPA Questions & Answers Do I need to earn a Master’s Degree to complete the 150-hour education requirement? No, you do not need to earn a Master’s degree in order to complete the 150-unit education requirement. Another (less expensive) option is to earn the necessary units by taking additional classes from an accredited college or

Do I need to earn a Master’s Degree to complete the 150-hour education requirement? Read More

If I plan on working in a provisionary state, am I able to sit for the CPA Exam early in a non-provisionary state?

CPA Questions & Answers If I plan on working in a provisionary state, am I able to sit for the CPA Exam early in a non-provisionary state? A non-provisionary state will not allow you to test without first meeting the education requirements. A provisionary state is a state that gives CPA Exam candidates a provisionary

If I plan on working in a provisionary state, am I able to sit for the CPA Exam early in a non-provisionary state? Read More

Can overseas work experience count towards my required hours for CPA Licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers Can overseas work experience count towards my required hours for CPA Licensure? It depends on the state/jurisdiction in which you decide to obtain your license. Many states accept non-public work experience as long as it is verified under the supervision of a CPA. ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up

Can overseas work experience count towards my required hours for CPA Licensure? Read More

Can volunteering count towards the work experience required for CPA Licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers Can volunteering count towards the work experience required for CPA Licensure? For most states, volunteering counts towards work experience for CPA licensure. The work experience requirements vary by jurisdiction, therefore, check your jurisdiction’s specific requirements. ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up to Learn More! Join our mailing list today to

Can volunteering count towards the work experience required for CPA Licensure? Read More

Do internship hours count towards the work experience requirement for CPA Licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers Do internship hours count towards the work experience requirement for CPA Licensure? Yes, internship hours count toward work experience. Since many states require that work experience is verified under the supervision of a CPA, if the duration of your internship is less than the requirement for your state/jurisdiction, then obtain verification

Do internship hours count towards the work experience requirement for CPA Licensure? Read More

Does all of my work experience need to be completed within the same company/organization?

CPA Questions & Answers Does all of my work experience need to be completed within the same company/organization? No, all of your work experience does not need to be completed within the same company or organization. Most states require that work experience is supervised by a licensed CPA; therefore, all work experience must have proper

Does all of my work experience need to be completed within the same company/organization? Read More

Does my work experience have to come from a public accounting firm?

CPA Questions & Answers Does my work experience have to come from a public accounting firm? Your work experience requirement is based on your state/jurisdiction. Most states/jurisdictions require at least two years of public accounting experience. However, many states/jurisdictions also accept non-public accounting experience (e.g., industry, government), although the number of years deemed acceptable are

Does my work experience have to come from a public accounting firm? Read More

How many hours of work experience is required when it says, for example, “one year” or “two years?”

CPA Questions & Answers How many hours of work experience is required when it says, for example, “one year” or “two years?” Work experience is based on full-time employment. Full-time employment is considered to be a 5-day work week with 35-40 hours per week, excluding overtime. Acceptable part-time (no fewer than 20 hours per week)

How many hours of work experience is required when it says, for example, “one year” or “two years?” Read More

What is the difference in culture between private, public, and governmental firms?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the difference in culture between private, public, and governmental firms? The main difference in culture is based on whom the accountant is serving. Public accountants serve different clients. Therefore, the focus is on the external client which usually means long hours and business professional dress code. Private accountants work for one

What is the difference in culture between private, public, and governmental firms? Read More

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