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 the best way to switch to an accounting career?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the best way to switch to an accounting career? If you have not graduated yet and wish to switch majors, then visit an academic advisor at your university to help guide you in your decision. Explain your situation to your academic advisor so that you’ll be able to transfer

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 are the benefits of getting my Masters in Accounting?

CPA Questions & Answers What are the benefits of getting my Masters in Accounting? At the very minimum, a Master’s degree in Accounting ensures you meet the education requirements needed to obtain your CPA credential sooner, which is attractive to recruiters. The more education you have as an accountant, the better paid you’re likely to

Do I have to get my CPA license to be an accountant?

CPA Questions & Answers Do I have to get my CPA license to be an accountant? No, you can be an accountant without obtaining your CPA license. In order to become an accountant, complete a program of study in accounting at a college/university and then acquire a job in the accounting field. ← Back to

What are the top Master’s in Accounting (MAcc) Programs?

CPA Questions & Answers What are the top Master’s in Accounting (MAcc) Programs? The top ten Master’s in Accounting (MAcc) programs in the United States are shown in the list below. All of these programs are accredited by the AACSB, the ACBSP or the IACB and have vast alumni networks, strong recruiting capabilities and high

What kind of degree do I need to become an accountant?

CPA Questions & Answers What kind of degree do I need to become an accountant? In order to become an accountant, you can complete a program of study in accounting at a college/university and obtain a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Accounting. However, it is possible to become an accountant without obtaining an accounting degree.

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 is the difference between a CPA and an MBA?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the difference between a CPA and an MBA? 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

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

What is the difference between a CPA and a CMA?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the difference between a CPA and a CMA? 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

What is the difference between a CPA and a CIA?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the difference between a CPA and a CIA? 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

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

CPA Questions & Answers 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. Working for a private company gives you the opportunity to work in financial accounting and reporting, management

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

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

CPA Questions & Answers 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. You can choose a career working in diverse areas such as: Financial accounting and

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

Are CPAs and Accountants the same thing?

CPA Questions & Answers Are CPAs and Accountants the same thing? All CPAs are accountants but not all accountants are CPAs. In many states, anyone can call himself/herself an “accountant.” In order to become a CPA, almost all states require that an individual meet education, experience, and ethical requirements and pass the Uniform CPA Examination.

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

What career options are available that require a CPA License?

CPA Questions & Answers What career options are available that require a CPA License? Within public accounting, you can work for any size firm, ranging from a large, international CPA firm to a small local accounting practice. Within the firm, you can work in such areas as audit, tax and management consulting. The same holds

What do I do after I pass the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers What do I do after I pass the CPA Exam? Every state or jurisdiction is different, but here’s a general overview of what to expect: Verify that you meet the state’s requirements – Visit the website of your State Board of Accountancy or Nasba.org in order to confirm that you meet

What do I do if I receive multiple job offers?

CPA Questions & Answers What do I do if I receive multiple job offers? When considering multiple job offers, it is important to evaluate your end goal. Is this position simply a way to get your foot in the door at a company and/or to obtain some experience? Or is this position where you wish

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 best way to switch to an accounting career?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the best way to switch to an accounting career? If you have not graduated yet and wish to switch majors, then visit an academic advisor at your university to help guide you in your decision. Explain your situation to your academic advisor so that you’ll be able to transfer

Do I have to get my CPA license to be an accountant?

CPA Questions & Answers Do I have to get my CPA license to be an accountant? No, you can be an accountant without obtaining your CPA license. In order to become an accountant, complete a program of study in accounting at a college/university and then acquire a job in the accounting field. ← Back to

What changes can I expect to see on the CPA Exam?

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What do I do if I fail a section of the CPA Exam?

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What is the most difficult section of the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the most difficult section of the CPA Exam? ← 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

Which section of the CPA Exam should I take first?

CPA Questions & Answers Which section of the CPA Exam should I take first? ← 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

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,

When can I retake a section of the CPA Exam if I didn’t pass?

CPA Questions & Answers When can I retake a section of the CPA Exam if I didn’t pass? If you did not pass a section of the CPA Exam, you have to wait until the next testing window to retake that section. There are four testing windows each year. The testing window is the first

When does my 18-month “clock” start ticking for the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers When does my 18-month “clock” start ticking for the CPA Exam? Once you pass your first CPA Exam section, then the 18-month “clock” starts ticking. This means that you have 18 more months from the time you pass your first exam to pass the remaining three parts. Once you pass an

Is the CPA Exam graded on a curve?

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What is a provisionary state and is my state a provisionary state?

CPA Questions & Answers What is a provisionary state and is my state a provisionary state? A provisionary state is a state that gives CPA Exam candidates a provisionary period to sit for the exam before they have officially completed the educational requirements, varying between 30 and 180 days. However, it should be noted that

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.

What is the pass rate of the CPA Exam?

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When should I start studying for the CPA Exam?

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Can I study for the CPA Exam and work full time?

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How long does it take to prepare for the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers How long does it take to prepare for the CPA Exam? The amount of time it takes to prepare for the CPA Exam depends on the candidate. A typical CPA candidate spends approximately 300 – 400 hours preparing to pass all parts of the exam which equates to approximately 1.5 –

When should I purchase a CPA Review course?

CPA Questions & Answers When should I purchase a CPA Review course? Since most CPA Review courses have an expiration date, it is recommended to purchase a course when you are ready to begin studying for the CPA Exam. Most candidates are ready to begin studying once they have completed the application process and received

Which firms pay for Roger CPA Review?

CPA Questions & Answers Which firms pay for Roger CPA Review? In order to know which firms pay for Roger CPA Review, you will have to ask the firm in which you are interested. Many firms reimburse candidates after successfully completing parts or the entire CPA Exam. View our partner information here. ← Back to

When will I receive my score for the CPA Exam?

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Is the CPA Exam graded on a curve?

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

When will I receive my CPA Exam Score?

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When are CPA Exam Scores Released?

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Does my state require an Ethics in Accounting class?

CPA Questions & Answers Does my state require an Ethics in Accounting class? Whether your state requires an Ethics in Accounting class depends on your state board of accountancy. Visit your state board’s website. ← Back to CPA Question Categories Sign Up to Learn More! Join our mailing list today to get notified of new

What do I do after I pass the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers What do I do after I pass the CPA Exam? Every state or jurisdiction is different, but here’s a general overview of what to expect: Verify that you meet the state’s requirements – Visit the website of your State Board of Accountancy or Nasba.org in order to confirm that you meet

What happens if I fail the Ethics Exam (a requirement for CPA Licensure)?

CPA Questions & Answers What happens if I fail the Ethics Exam (a requirement for CPA Licensure)? You are allowed three attempts to pass the ethics exam for online submission. Afterwards, you will be required to mail the answer sheet into the AICPA. The CPA Ethics Exam is required by many (but not all) state

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

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

How can I verify my work experience hours for CPA Licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers How can I verify my work experience hours for CPA Licensure? You can have your work experience verified by the NASBA Experience Verification service. This service provides access to an interview with a CPA and conducts a thorough authentication of your work experience. This service is only available for applicants with international

Am I required to complete an internship in order to get my CPA License?

CPA Questions & Answers Am I required to complete an internship in order to get my CPA License? No, you are not required to complete an internship in order to get your CPA license. However, you are required to obtain experience according to the requirements of your state board, which internships can count towards. ←

What else is needed for CPA Licensure besides the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers What else is needed for CPA Licensure besides the CPA Exam? In addition to successfully completing the CPA Exam, a candidate must fulfill these additional requirements: Generally, each state board requires a total of 150 semester/225 quarter units from a college or university whose accreditation is accepted by the state. Most

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.

Will my firm pay for my CPA Review materials?

Many firms reimburse candidates after successfully passing each part or the entire CPA Exam. Whether or not your firm will pay for your CPA Review materials depends on the firm. If you are unsure if your firm will reimburse you for CPA review materials, then ask your employer.

What do I do with my International transcript?

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Does my Authorization to Test (ATT) expire?

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How easy is it to reschedule the CPA Exam?

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When can you take the CPA Exam?

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What is a provisionary state and is my state a provisionary state?

CPA Questions & Answers What is a provisionary state and is my state a provisionary state? A provisionary state is a state that gives CPA Exam candidates a provisionary period to sit for the exam before they have officially completed the educational requirements, varying between 30 and 180 days. However, it should be noted that

In which countries can I take the CPA Exam internationally?

CPA Questions & Answers In which countries can I take the CPA Exam internationally? In conjunction with the AICPA and Prometric, NASBA provides the opportunity for international administration of the Uniform CPA Examination to be offered in: England Scotland Ireland Germany Japan Brazil Bahrain Kuwait Lebanon the United Arab Emirates Europe In order to qualify

What advice do you have for talking to accounting industry recruiters?

CPA Questions & Answers What advice do you have for talking to accounting industry recruiters? It is important to build a relationship with recruiters. This relationship building will allow them the opportunity to get to know you as a candidate and will help you stand out in comparison to other candidates who did not establish

What do I do if I receive multiple job offers?

CPA Questions & Answers What do I do if I receive multiple job offers? When considering multiple job offers, it is important to evaluate your end goal. Is this position simply a way to get your foot in the door at a company and/or to obtain some experience? Or is this position where you wish

What questions should I ask accounting recruiters?

CPA Questions & Answers What questions should I ask accounting recruiters? It is important to research the company/firm in order to have insight into what the company does, what they are seeking in a candidate and what their corporate culture is like. Doing research will help you prepare for conversation with the recruiters. Good starting

What should I expect during the interviewing process?

CPA Questions & Answers What should I expect during the interviewing process? Interviewing for a public CPA firm is a multi-step process. Most interviews are conducted in the following way: Phone/Campus Interview – Prior to visiting the office, you will either have a phone or campus interview. Prepare for this interview as if it were

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

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

What else is needed for CPA Licensure besides the CPA Exam?

CPA Questions & Answers What else is needed for CPA Licensure besides the CPA Exam? In addition to successfully completing the CPA Exam, a candidate must fulfill these additional requirements: Generally, each state board requires a total of 150 semester/225 quarter units from a college or university whose accreditation is accepted by the state. Most

What is a provisionary state and is my state a provisionary state?

CPA Questions & Answers What is a provisionary state and is my state a provisionary state? A provisionary state is a state that gives CPA Exam candidates a provisionary period to sit for the exam before they have officially completed the educational requirements, varying between 30 and 180 days. However, it should be noted that

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.

What are the top Master’s in Accounting (MAcc) Programs?

CPA Questions & Answers What are the top Master’s in Accounting (MAcc) Programs? The top ten Master’s in Accounting (MAcc) programs in the United States are shown in the list below. All of these programs are accredited by the AACSB, the ACBSP or the IACB and have vast alumni networks, strong recruiting capabilities and high

What kind of degree do I need to become an accountant?

CPA Questions & Answers What kind of degree do I need to become an accountant? In order to become an accountant, you can complete a program of study in accounting at a college/university and obtain a Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Accounting. However, it is possible to become an accountant without obtaining an accounting degree.

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 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

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

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

How can I verify my work experience hours for CPA Licensure?

CPA Questions & Answers How can I verify my work experience hours for CPA Licensure? You can have your work experience verified by the NASBA Experience Verification service. This service provides access to an interview with a CPA and conducts a thorough authentication of your work experience. This service is only available for applicants with international

How do I get an accounting internship?

CPA Questions & Answers How do I get an accounting internship? To find internships, visit your university’s career center, attend Meet the Firms events, and go to career job fairs. For summer internships, accounting firms begin the hiring process in the late fall of the preceding year, nearly six months before the internship even begins.

What does “work under a licensed CPA” mean?

CPA Questions & Answers What does “work under a licensed CPA” mean? To work under a licensed CPA means that the CPA must have acted in a supervisory capacity to the applicant in the same employing organization. The CPA must have an active license that has not lapsed. The CPA must be able to attest

Am I required to complete an internship in order to get my CPA License?

CPA Questions & Answers Am I required to complete an internship in order to get my CPA License? No, you are not required to complete an internship in order to get your CPA license. However, you are required to obtain experience according to the requirements of your state board, which internships can count towards. ←

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 typical work/life balance of a CPA Candidate?

CPA Questions & Answers What is the typical work/life balance of a CPA Candidate? Although the typical work/life balance for each CPA exam will candidate vary, what is common among all candidates is that many hours are spent studying for the exam and they must reprioritize their responsibilities to accommodate their studies. Other factors such

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