CPA After CA: Eligibility, Fees and Salary Guide

This article provides information on everything you want to know regarding CPA after CA, including eligibility, fees, salary, and scope of career. Here, you will get to know all about CPA after CA, including exemptions, certification, and scope of career in the USA.

Comprehensive Summary on ‘CPA After CA’

CPA after CA

Pursuing CPA after CA helps professionals expand global career opportunities and gain expertise in international accounting standards.

CPA exemptions for ca

Knowing the CPA exemptions for CA will help professionals save time and make their way to CPA smoothly.

exemptions in CPA after ca

Exemptions in CPA after CA can simplify eligibility requirements depending on academic credentials.

CPA certification

The CPA certification provides finance and accounting professionals with international recognition, which improves their career advancement opportunities.

What is a CPA? 

Understanding what a CPA is helps professionals align their career goals with international accounting standards.

AICPA

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants governs the CPA programme and maintains global standards.

Introduction

Reaching the summit of clearing the CA exam is a proud moment in a professional’s life. But soon after, the question of what to do next pops up in their minds. As the financial world is becoming increasingly global, professionals are looking to pursue global career options.

This is where the idea of CPA after CA emerges. This is not just a matter of clearing another exam; it’s all about global career prospects, better salaries, and knowledge of global accounting standards. This article will provide you with information on whether it’s worth pursuing a CPA after clearing the CA exam.

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Why should you pursue a US CPA after a CA?

Choosing CPA after CA is a strategic move for professionals who want a global career. This helps gain knowledge and access more global opportunities.

• Global recognition
• Expertise in US accounting standards
• Better job prospects
• Higher earning potential

Global Credibility and US GAAP Expertise

The programme enables Certified Public Accountants to acquire US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (AICPA) knowledge, which enables them to compete worldwide.

• Widely accepted in multinational companies
• Strong demand in global finance roles
• Enhances technical expertise
• Improves career mobility

Bridging the Gap: India’s CA vs. US CPA

The certification enables professionals to acquire essential accounting skills that bridge the professional gap between Indian accounting standards and international accounting standards.

• CA focuses on Indian standards
• CPA focuses on US GAAP and IFRS
• Combined knowledge increases value
• Expands career scope

Career Opportunities in Big 4 and Global MNCs

Professionals who complete their CPA certification after obtaining their CA degree become desirable candidates for global corporations.

• Big 4 accounting firms
• Multinational corporations
• Consulting firms
• Investment banks

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Check Eligibility

What are the eligibility criteria for the CA-to-CPA transition?

It is very important for professionals who want to pursue CPA after CA to understand the eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria vary according to the educational background of the individual.

• Credit requirements
• Evaluation process
• State board rules

The 150-Hour Credit Rule Explained

This is a very important eligibility criterion for CPA.

• A total of 150 academic credit hours are required.
• CA qualification contributes credits
• Additional courses may be needed
• Varies by state

Exemptions for ICAI Members under MRA

Exemptions in CPA after CA are provided under these agreements

• ICAI members may get benefits
• Reduces additional coursework
• Speeds up eligibility
• Depends on evaluation

Educational Evaluation (NIES and NASBA)

Credential evaluation is a mandatory process.

• NIES and NASBA assess qualifications
• Converts Indian education into US credits
• Determines eligibility
• Required for application

How does CA compare with CPA?

Understanding this helps us compare and contrast the effectiveness of CPA after CA.

What is the total cost of the US CPA course?

Financial planning for the CPA is a crucial step for those interested in pursuing a CPA course after CA.

• Exam fees
• Evaluation fees
• Coaching costs
• Licensing fees

Breakdown of Exam Fees and Registration

The exam fees are a big part of the overall cost.

• Application fees
• Exam section fees
• International testing fees
• Rescheduling charges

Evaluation and License Fees

Additional costs are involved.

• Credential evaluation fees
• Licensing fees
• State board charges
• Renewal fees

Coaching and Material Costs in India

Preparation costs vary.

• Coaching institutes
• Study materials
• Mock tests
• Online resources

What is the CPA exam fee structure?

What are the salary prospects for CA + CPA professionals?

When an individual decides to become a CPA after a CA, it definitely increases their salary prospects. This will allow an individual to explore numerous opportunities within the country as well as overseas.

• Higher salary packages
• Global job roles
• Faster career growth

Entry-Level vs. Experienced Salary in India

The salary will depend upon the experience level. The salary range will be:

• Entry-level: ₹8–15 LPA
• Mid-level: ₹15–30 LPA
• Senior roles: ₹30+ LPA

Impact of Dual Qualification on Overseas Salary

Earning more in international companies is a big advantage of pursuing a CPA course after CA.

• USA: $70,000–120,000
• UAE: AED 120,000–300,000
• Canada: CAD 60,000–100,000

Top Recruiting Companies

Top firms actively hire professionals with CPAs after CAs.

• Big 4 firms
• Accenture
• J.P. Morgan
• Global MNCs

What are the salary expectations by job role?

What is the career scope after CPA + CA?

The career scope is vast. The dual qualification opens doors to new opportunities. 

• Global accounting roles
• Finance leadership positions
• Consulting opportunities

International Taxation and Transfer Pricing

Specialised roles offer high growth.

• Cross-border taxation
• Compliance management
• Advisory services
• High demand globally

Financial Accounting and Reporting (F&A)

Core finance roles remain strong.

• Financial reporting
• Compliance
• Audit functions
• Corporate accounting

Investment Banking and Corporate Finance

High-paying roles are available.

• Mergers and acquisitions
• Financial modeling
• Corporate strategy
• Capital markets

Conclusion: Is it worth doing CPA after CA?

Making the choice of becoming a CPA after CA is an excellent and forward-thinking move, especially if your ultimate goal is to gain global experience and increase your remunerative potential. This is because, by becoming a CPA, you are not only enhancing your existing qualification of becoming a CA but also widening your international experience, with special emphasis being placed on US GAAP. Although it is a time- and money-consuming process, it is worth it in the long run. Therefore, for those who wish to stand out in an increasingly competitive world of finance, knowing what is CPA and becoming a CPA after CA is an excellent forward-thinking move.

FAQs on CPA After CA

Is there a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) between the ICAI and the AICPA?

There is no MRA; however, certain exemptions in CPA after CA are applicable.

How many exams are exempted for Indian CAs in the US CPA programme?

There are no direct paper exemptions, though CPA exemptions for CA may apply to eligibility credits.

Can I work in the US after completing a CPA from India?

Yes, a CPA after a CA will definitely improve your prospects, though US work authorisation or a visa is necessary.

What is the total cost of the US CPA course for Indian students?

The total cost for a CPA after a CA is usually between ₹2 and ₹4 lakhs.

Does a CA + CPA dual qualification help in getting a job at Big 4 firms?

Yes, having a CPA after a CA will definitely improve your prospects at Big 4 firms.

Current Role

Co-Founder & CEO at Zell Education

Education

• ACCA – Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, Finance (2011 – 2014)
• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Financial Markets from H.R. College Of Commerce & Economics (2010 – 2013)

Location

Mumbai, India

Expertise

ACCA Certified