To obtain the extra 30 credits (for a total of 150) required for CPA licensure, the most common methods include enrolling in a Master’s program (MAcc/MBA), taking community college courses, or utilizing online self-paced platforms like CPA Credits. Other effective options are adding a minor or double major in undergraduate studies, taking College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams, or participating in the AICPA/NASBA Experience, Learn and Earn (ELE) program.
Fulfilling the Requirement
You can't. Every state requires you to have a certain accounting credit to be eligible for the exam as well as for the license. Generally, a candidate must have 120 credits (in some states the requirement could be 150) from a NAAC recognized college.
California. New Pathways: 120-Unit Track: Bachelor's degree (120 credits) + 2 years general accounting experience + Pass CPA Exam. 150-Unit Track (Traditional): 150 total credits (including master's or additional undergrad) + 1 year general accounting experience + Pass CPA Exam.
Calculating your CPA Exam score
Scores are reported on a scale that ranges from 0 to 99. It's important to know that your total reported score does not represent a percentage correct, nor can you interpret it as such. Scores are not curved.
Earn a master's degree.
While candidates can sit for the Uniform CPA exam with a bachelor's degree (120 semester hours), many states require 150 hours of education to obtain CPA licensure. A master's degree in accounting satisfies the 150-hour requirement.
All courses offered through CpaCredits.com are through Regionally Accredited University partners and are accepted by all state boards.
The short answer is no. While all states do stipulate at least a bachelor's degree from a higher learning institution and 150 semester hours (225 quarter hours) of earned credit,1 there are five states that do not require your degree to be in accounting: Alaska. Georgia.
How will you earn your 150 hours?
You'll find the CPA Exam generally harder than the MCAT due to its rigorous structure, complex task-based simulations, and lower pass rates. Candidates typically invest more hours in study, increasing the overall difficulty.
Comparison between CA and CPA
It is difficult to determine which of these professions offers a higher salary, as the salary of a CA or CPA can vary greatly based on several factors. However, in general, CAs tend to earn slightly more than CPAs in India.
They're complementary professional credentials.
These designations provide different benefits and signify different qualities to a prospective employer. While a CPA shows mastery in foundational accounting skills, a master's degree shows you're driven to gain new skills that will directly benefit an organization.
Accountants need to be proficient in basic arithmetic, algebra, and statistics to analyze financial data, prepare reports, and ensure accuracy in their work. They may also use mathematical principles to perform tasks such as budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
Although both professions require a different sort of mindset to achieve success in their respective fields, the qualities that make up a good attorney and a good CPA are remarkably complementary. For this reason, becoming a dual licensed Attorney-CPA can be an exceptionally powerful career.
Absolutely. While public accounting firms highly value CPA certification, corporate employers, government agencies, and non-profit organizations also prefer CPA-certified candidates for senior financial positions. The credential provides credibility and expertise valuable across all sectors.
Yes, tax attorneys generally earn more than CPAs because they handle complex legal issues, court representation, and high-stakes tax litigation, commanding higher fees than CPAs who focus more on accounting, financial planning, and return preparation, although both can earn high salaries, especially in senior roles at large firms. A tax attorney's specialization in law often leads to higher earning potential, with median lawyer pay significantly exceeding that of accountants, though specific salaries depend heavily on experience, firm size, and location.