CPA Course in the USA: Everything International Students Need to Know

Wondering how a Certified Public Accountant course in USA could boost your career growth? Administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the CPA serves as a benchmark for excellence in the accounting courses in USA. The credential signifies auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance expertise.

Beyond financial rewards, accounting and finance courses offer the opportunity to work with motivated professionals in diverse industries. But what does it take to become a CPA in the USA? Let’s break down the eligibility, costs, and top universities to get you started with Certified Public Accountant training.

What is a CPA Course in the USA?

A Certified Public Accountant Course in USA is a professional accountancy certification where candidates are tested on their skills in financial accounting, financial reporting, auditing, attestation, regulations, business environments, and business concepts.

This is among the accounting courses in USA that provides expertise in tax law, auditing procedures, management practices, and financial operations, making CPAs highly valuable. They provide essential financial services, ensure regulatory compliance, and help organizations make informed financial decisions. 

Why Pursue a CPA in the USA?

Earning a Certified Public Accountant Course in USA offers numerous benefits if you want to advance in your career. Some key reasons to motivate you to pursue a CPA in the USA are:

• International Popularity: The CPA credential is highly respected in the accounting and finance industry worldwide.
• Career Advancement: With a CPA course, doors to senior roles in accounting, finance, auditing, and taxation open. 
• High Salary Potential: CPAs earn 10-15% higher salaries than non-certified accountants. 
• Career Opportunities Widen: CPAs can work in public accounting firms, multinational corporations, government agencies, and financial institutions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 22% growth in employment for individuals with a CPA license by 2028, highlighting a strong demand for certified accounting professionals.

CPA Eligibility Requirements in the USA

You can complete the required credit hours during your undergraduate studies before entering the workforce, or you can also pursue a master’s degree, gaining additional credits and advanced qualifications. 

Another path is to graduate with a four-year degree and begin studying for the CPA exam immediately. To be eligible for the Certified Public Accountant course in USA, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field like tax preparation and planning or auditing. Some states require 120-150 credit hours, which may necessitate a master’s degree.
• Work Experience: Most states require 1-2 years of experience under a licensed CPA.
• State-Specific Requirements: Each state has its own CPA eligibility requirements, so candidates must check with the State Board of Accountancy where they plan to be licensed.

Exam Syllabus of the CPA Course in the USA

The Certified Public Accountant Course in USA licensure model requires candidates to pass three Core exam sections and one Discipline exam section of their choice. 

Core exam sections evaluate the fundamental knowledge and skills that all newly licensed CPAs (nlCPAs) must possess to protect the public interest. Whereas discipline exam sections assess specialized knowledge and skills relevant to a CPA’s chosen field, ensuring they are well-equipped to uphold professional standards. 

CPA in the USA Exam Structure

The Certified Public Accountant Course in USA  consists of three Core sections and three Discipline sections, each lasting four hours. Here’s an outline of the exam structure and the types of questions featured in each section:

How to Apply for a Certified Public Accountant Course in USA?

The application process for the CPA for international students USA is easy and hassle-free. Here’s the step-by-step breakdown:

• Determine Your Eligibility: Visit the website to check if you meet the education requirements.
• Submit Your Application: Apply through NASBA’s CPA Central portal.
• Submit Documents: Submit documents for verification. Once approved, receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS), which is valid for six months.
• Schedule Your CPA Exam Section: Use your NTS to book your exam through Prometric and start CPA exam preparation USA. 

Fee Structure for CPA in the USA

The total cost of obtaining a Certified Public Accountant Course in USA varies by state. The CPA course fees that you generally pay include:

Each year, the AICPA Foundation gives out more than USD 1 million in scholarships, with individual awards ranging from USD 1,000 to USD 15,000. Whether you're an undergrad, graduate student, CPA candidate, or even planning to earn a PhD in accounting, there is a scholarship that might be perfect for you!

Top Universities for CPA in the USA

With so many universities in the US offering accounting programs, picking the best one can feel overwhelming. You get access to the best CPA review courses USA at these universities. Here’s a list of the top undergraduate and master’s accounting programs to help you make the right choice for Certified Public Accountant training:

Countries Offering International CPA Exams

The Uniform CPA Examination is offered internationally through a collaboration between the AICPA, NASBA, and Prometric. This initiative provides flexibility for qualified international candidates to take the CPA course for international students without traveling to the US, expanding global access to the credential. 

To take the Uniform CPA Examination internationally, candidates must select a participating state, contact its Board of Accountancy to obtain application materials, and submit the completed application along with the CPA Course Fees in USA. Once deemed eligible, candidates receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS), which allows them to register for the exam at an international test center. 

The foreign centers offering exams for the CPA course for international students are:

Career Prospects & Salary after a CPA Course in the USA

The Certified Public Accountant Course in USA opens up tons of career opportunities and significantly increases your earning potential by being among the highest-paid jobs. Whether you want to work for a Big Four firm, climb the corporate ladder, or even start your accounting practice, a CPA license gives you the skills and credibility to do it all.

Completing a Certified Public Accountant Course in USA is one of the best career investments you can make. If you need comfortable and affordable accommodation while you’re at it, check out Amber Student! Explore affordable student housing near your university and focus on acing your CPA exams stress-free.