If you are interested in working in some of the most reputed accounting firms across the world as a revered accounting professional, then you should consider pursuing US CPA.Â
The Certified Public Accountant (US CPA) course is a professional qualification that allows you to become an accountant in India as well as countries such as the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and other parts of North America. It comes under the jurisdiction of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Being able to work in some of the most reputable accounting and finance companies in India and across the world is one of the biggest advantages of US CPA.Â
Eligibility for CPA
For CPA Exam Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for appearing for the US CPA exam differ by state, but the general requirement includes:
- A Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
- A total of 120 credit hours of education, equivalent to a graduate degree plus one year of post-graduation.
Some states may have additional requirements, such as specific coursework in auditing or taxation.
For CPA License Eligibility
To obtain a US CPA license, candidates need:
- 150 credit hours of education (equivalent to a master’s degree).
- Work experience in accounting or finance (varies by state, typically one to two years).
- Some states require candidates to pass an ethics exam before issuing the license.
Since licensing requirements differ across states, ensure you meet the specific criteria of the state you are applying for.
Course Structure of US CPA
The US CPA exam consists of four sections, each focusing on different aspects of accounting and finance:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD) – Covers ethics, auditing principles, and risk assessment.
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) – Includes business structures, financial management, and corporate governance.
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) – Tests knowledge of financial statements, GAAP, and IFRS.
- Regulation (REG) – Covers taxation, business law, and ethics.
Each exam section is four hours long, and candidates must pass all four within 18 months from the date of passing their first exam.
US CPA Course Fees
The overall US CPA course fees vary largely based on the state in which you are registering and if you are giving the exam from the US or outside of the US.
Now that the US CPA exam can be taken from India, the cost of travelling and accommodation would be incurred in the past. However, some additional costs have been introduced to make it possible for students outside of the US to take the US CPA exam.Â
Additional Costs in CPA
Extensive Courses & Programs
Many CPA candidates opt for review courses and study programs, which can range from ₹80,000 to ₹2,00,000 depending on the provider. Becker, Wiley, and Surgent are some of the top CPA prep courses that help with exam preparation.
Mock Tests
Mock tests and practice exams are essential for success. Some course providers offer free mock exams, but full-length simulations can cost ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 per set.
Travel & Accommodation
If you choose to take the CPA exam in another country (such as the US), travel and stay costs can significantly add up. Flights, visa fees, and accommodation can range between ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000.
Membership Fees
Upon passing the CPA exam, you must pay a membership fee to maintain your certification. AICPA charges around $275–$500 per year (approx. ₹22,000–₹40,000).
Curious About CPA Course Fees?
How Can You Save Costs While Applying for US CPA?
Comparison of Study Materials
Research and compare various CPA review courses before purchasing. Some platforms offer discounted student pricing, bundled packages, or free trials that can help you choose the best value-for-money option.
Strategic Exam Scheduling
Since the CPA exam must be completed within 18 months, scheduling exams strategically can save on rescheduling fees and additional study materials. Taking exams back-to-back reduces extra costs on study programs and mock tests.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Several organizations, including the AICPA, offer CPA exam scholarships that can cover part of the application and study material fees. Some firms also provide employer-sponsored CPA support for their employees.
How to Apply for US CPA?
1. Check your Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for US CPA can vary as you move from one US state to another. However, the basic eligibility requirement for the US CPA exam and license is as follows.
- Exam – Graduation + 1 year of Post Graduation (120 credits)
- License – Graduation + Post Graduation (150 credits)
2. Evaluation
Before you can register yourself for the US CPA exam, you must first complete the evaluation process. During the evaluation, your local academic transcripts, i.e. mark sheets will be assessed and translated in such a way that a U.S. based evaluator can understand them. Some evaluation bodies that can help you with this process include the World Education Services (WES) and NASBA International Evaluation Services (NIES).Â
3. Registration & Payment of Fees
After successfully completing your evaluation process, you are now free to start the process of registration. You will have to submit all your transcripts as well as the registration fees during the step. Once your selected state has approved your application, you will get your Authorization to Test (ATT).
- The first step of the registration process is submitting all the necessary details about your accounting education and your accounting designation.
- Once you have submitted all the necessary details, you will then receive the Notice to Schedule (NTS)Â
- Upon receiving the NTS, you can now go to the Prometric website and schedule your exam on whichever date is convenient for you.Â
Upon getting your ATT, you can pay your examination fees for the paper that you want to attempt in that exam window. Your ATT is valid up to 90 days after receiving it, so you need to pay for your exam within those 90 days.Â
4. Appear for Exams
Plan your exam attempts wisely to avoid multiple retakes, which add to the total cost. Retake fees vary by section but can range from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per exam. Proper preparation helps minimize these expenses.
CPA Course Duration
The US CPA course can be completed in 12 to 18 months, depending on how many exams you take in each testing window. Since the exam follows a rolling schedule, candidates can attempt multiple sections in one quarter to finish early.
However, balancing work and studies might extend the duration. Enrolling in a structured CPA coaching program can help streamline preparation and ensure timely completion.
The US CPA qualification is recognized worldwide and can open doors to opportunities in Europe, Asia and North America. If you are an accounting professional looking to boost your career or just curious to learn about the course, we suggest you check out Zell Education’s blog on Certified Public Accountant (CPA) courses to learn more.
How to become a US CPA: Step-By-Step Registration Process
1. Evaluation and Registration for US CPA
Once the evaluation is complete, you can proceed with the registration process.Â
- The first step of the registration process is submitting all the necessary details about your accounting education and your accounting designation.
- Once you have submitted all the necessary details, you will then receive the Notice to Schedule (NTS)Â
- Upon receiving the NTS, you can now go to the Prometric website and schedulesyour exam on whichever date is convenient for you.Â
The entire process of registration can be quite confusing and stressful. However, after you enrol with Zell Education for the US CPA course, we can take care of this entire process and guide you through the states of the US that might be the right fit for you to do US CPA.Â
2. Check your Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for US CPA can vary as you move from one US state to another. However, the basic eligibility requirement for the US CPA exam and license is as follows.
- Exam – Graduation + 1 year of Post Graduation (120 credits)
- License – Graduation + Post Graduation (150 credits)
3. Complete your Evaluation
Before you can register yourself for the US CPA exam, you must first complete the evaluation process. During the evaluation, your local academic transcripts, i.e. mark sheets will be assessed and translated in such a way that a U.S. based evaluator can understand them. Some evaluation bodies that can help you with this process include the World Education Services (WES) and NASBA International Evaluation Services (NIES).Â
4. Complete the Registration
After successfully completing your evaluation process, you are now free to start the process of registration. You will have to submit all your transcripts as well as the registration fees during the step. Once your selected state has approved your application, you will get your Authorization to Test (ATT).Â
5. Pay for the Exams
Upon getting your ATT, you can pay your examination fees for the paper that you want to attempt in that exam window. Your ATT is valid up to 90 days after receiving it, so you need to pay for your exam within those 90 days.Â
6. Get your NTS
After paying for your exam you need to wait for your Notice to Schedule (NTS). Upon receiving your NTS you can now schedule your exam on the date and time slot that is available. The US CPA Exams can be taken on-demand in the months of January, February, April, May, July August, October and November.
The US CPA qualification is recognized worldwide and can open doors to opportunities in Europe, Asia and North America. If you are an accounting professional looking to boost your career or just curious to learn about the course, we suggest you check out Zell Education’s blog on Certified Public Accountant (CPA) course to learn more.
FAQs on US CPA Course Cost
In which USA States can an Indian apply for US CPA?
You can only apply for a US CPA license in states that don’t need you to have a social security number. So, you can get a US CPA license from Montana, Washington, Pennsylvania, Guam and Alaska.
Which countries can a US CPA work in?
After US CPA you can work in any country that has an MRA with AICPA. These include Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.
Can you get exemptions in US CPA after CA?
No, you can not get any exemptions for US CPA even if you are a qualified CA.
Is it Worth Doing US CPA in India?
Yes, pursuing a US CPA in India is highly beneficial for professionals looking to work in global firms. The CPA qualification is recognized worldwide, and Indian MNCs and Big Four firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG actively hire CPAs.
