How Long does It Take to Get a CPA?
Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a rigorous process, but offers great career rewards. Here’s a breakdown of the time investment:
Step 1: Education
Most states require 120-150 credit hours of accounting-related coursework, which usually takes about 4-5 years to complete.
- You’ll need a Bachelor’s degree in accounting, focusing on courses covering auditing, taxation, and business law
- A Master’s degree can help reach the 150 credit-hour requirement needed in most states.
- Ensure your coursework covers auditing, taxation, and business law.
Step 2: CPA Exam
You must pass the 4-part CPA exam within an 18-month window. Studying can take several hundred hours.
- Four sections: Auditing, Business Concepts, Financial Reporting, and Regulation.
- You have 18 months to pass all sections.
Step 3: Experience
You typically need 1-2 years of relevant accounting experience., often supervised by a CPA. (Public accounting, industry, or government accounting).
Step 4: Licensing
- Requirements vary by state – check your state’s board of accountancy.
- Ethics exams and background checks are common.
Step 5: Maintain Your CPA Status
- Most states mandate ongoing Continuing Professional Education (CPE) to maintain your CPA license. This ensures you stay updated on the latest accounting standards and practices.
Becoming a CPA typically takes 5-7 years from start to finish. This includes earning your degrees, preparing for and passing the CPA exam, gaining the necessary work experience, and fulfilling state-specific licensing requirements.
How Long does It Take to Get a CPA?
The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is a gold standard in the accounting world. It signifies a high level of expertise in areas like auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. CPAs are sought-after professionals, enjoying greater career opportunities and higher earning potential. However, becoming a CPA is no easy feat. It requires a significant investment of time, effort, and dedication.