The Complete Guide To A CPA Career Path

The US CPA is the highest professional qualification in accounting management that anyone can aim for.  If you want to become a CPA and if you have the right attitude and determination, then you can make your dreams come true. The Complete Guide To CPA Career Path will help you understand what is CPA, how to get a US CPA Certificate or License, as well as all the necessary steps to achieve this goal. 

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the United States is a highly coveted career path for many aspiring accountants. With a US CPA qualification, you can work not only in the United States but also in Europe, North America, and Asian countries. As a CPA, you can work in a wide range of industries, from healthcare to law, fashion to food, and more. Every business today requires a CPA to keep track of financial transactions, audit financial statements, handle taxation and litigation, and offer sound guidance on financial planning. This means that CPA job opportunities are abundant, and you can choose the industry that interests you the most.   

However, before you embark on your journey to becoming a US CPA, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria and the steps involved in the process. Here is a complete guide to help you navigate your CPA career path.  

Steps for CPA Career: 

1. Check your CPA eligibility

The organizations that regulate the CPA profession, such as AICPA, NASBA, and the jurisdictions of America, have specific criteria for three essential categories: education, exam, and experience. To be eligible to become a US CPA, you need to have a minimum of 120 credit hours in commerce, which is equivalent to 30 credit hours per academic year. This can be a challenge for Indian students who have a 3-year bachelor’s program as opposed to the 4-year program in the United States. 

However, if you have a B.Com degree and are pursuing an MBA or CA degree, you are likely eligible to become a US CPA. 

2. US CPA Evaluation

The cost of evaluation varies depending on the type of evaluation you require. Some jurisdictions also offer pre-evaluation services to help you identify the courses you need to take to be eligible for the CPA exam.

3. US CPA Registration

Once you have been evaluated by reputable agencies such as WES and NASBA and have received your evaluation report, you can register for the US CPA exam. You can simplify the process by applying through Miles Education or filling out a few questions on the CPA registration website. The questions will cover your accounting designation, education, and more. Once you have answered all the questions, you will receive a “Notice to Schedule” (NTS), which allows you to schedule your exam through the Prometric website.

4. Prepare and appear for four examinations

The US CPA exam is challenging, and it requires practice, patience, and regular training. If you choose to prepare for the exams on your own, you will need to create practice questions, study plans, and mock tests. However, by training with a coaching institute like Miles Education, you will have access to interactive lectures, relevant case studies, and a custom study plan. Miles also offers placement services.

5. Appear for the Ethics exam

Once you have completed the four US CPA papers, you need to clear the ethics paper before you can apply for your US CPA license. The CPA exams are held year-round, except on weekends, in Prometric centers across India, including New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and Kochi.  

In conclusion, pursuing a US CPA degree is a great career path for anyone interested in the dynamic field of accounting. The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to become the equivalent of a chartered accountant in the US and opens up a wide range of job opportunities in various industries. To become a US CPA, you need to meet the eligibility criteria in three essential categories: education, exam, and experience. You need to have a minimum of 120 credit hours in commerce, pass four CPA exams, and clear the ethics exam to obtain a CPA license. There are many resources available to help you on this journey, including evaluation agencies, coaching institutes, and online resources. By following these steps and putting in the effort, you can achieve your goal of becoming a successful US CPA.