The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is one of the most prestigious and widely recognized accounting credentials in the world. Awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the CPA qualification serves as a passport to rewarding careers in accounting, auditing, taxation, consulting, and financial management across the United States and major international financial markets.
A CPA license signifies the highest standards of professional competence and ethical conduct, making CPAs highly sought after by multinational corporations, public accounting firms, financial institutions, and government organizations.
The three pillars of the CPA license
Earning the CPA designation involves fulfilling three essential requirements:
1. Education
A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field and a minimum of 150 semester hours of college education. Some states require additional coursework or an extra year of study.
2. Examination
The Uniform CPA Examination® — three Core sections plus one Discipline section of your choice, each four hours long.
3. Experience
Most jurisdictions require relevant professional work experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA.
Core sections
- — Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- — Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- — Taxation and Regulation (REG)
Discipline section (choose one)
- — Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- — Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
- — Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
Depending on the state board, candidates may also need to complete an Ethics Examination.
Eligibility requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Degree | Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related discipline |
| Educational credits | Minimum 150 semester hours of college education |
| Additional study | Some states require additional undergraduate or graduate coursework |
| Age requirement | Varies by state; some require candidates to be at least 19 |
| Citizenship | A few states require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency |
| Professional experience | Requirements vary by state |
| Ethics examination | Required in some jurisdictions |
State-specific requirements
Since CPA licensure is regulated by individual state boards, requirements may differ — additional coursework, residency requirements, fingerprinting and background verification, and state-specific ethics requirements.
Opportunities for international candidates
International students and professionals can also pursue the CPA qualification, provided they satisfy the eligibility criteria prescribed by the respective state boards. Many states welcome international applicants, making CPA an attractive credential for those seeking global career opportunities.
Why choose CPA?
- — World's most respected accounting credential
- — Extensive career opportunities in the United States and abroad
- — High demand among multinational corporations and Big Four accounting firms
- — Expertise in accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management
- — Strong earning potential, professional growth and global recognition
CPA coaching at Tangent Coaching & Careers
Students can opt for subject-specific coaching and individualized mentoring based on their learning requirements and career goals. Our flexible approach ensures every student receives focused attention and expert guidance.
Learn Globally. Qualify Professionally. Succeed Internationally. Choose CPA.