Worth the Work
Becoming certified is a lot like getting a law license. It’s proof that you've mastered the vital elements of your profession through years of academic and technical training. As a CPA, you’ll also have access to jobs with higher authority and responsibility — and you’ll enjoy greater career stability. Best of all, being a CPA allows you to do meaningful work with highly motivated and multi-talented people. CPAs get to pick from highly-specialized job functions, ranging from auditing to information technology. You can pursue jobs that will let you travel internationally — or find opportunities to give back through work for non-profit organizations.
CPA voices
Hear from members and candidates who have earned or are on their path to earning the CPA designation. We hope they inspire you to take the next step to start your CPA journey.
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Career Launchpad
Kickstart your career in accounting and finance with essential tools, resume/CV support, AI interview mock practice, expert guidance, and more!
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Looking for help funding your studies?
Majoring in accouting can open doors to the many accounting scholarships available! Learn more about AICPA scholarships and access our National Scholarships Database here.
Understanding the Exam
About the Exam
Review the
Uniform CPA Examination Candidate Guidefor more information about the exam content and the examination process.
About Applying
The exam is the same worldwide, but requirements to sit for it vary across each state. First, determine which state or jurisdiction you will become licensed in, then
apply directlythrough its board of accountancy to determine if you are eligible to take the exam. After your application is received and accepted, you'll be issued a Notice to Schedule (NTS) that allows you to schedule your first section.
About Preparing
Ultimately, how you prepare is up to you, but there are resources to help. You can access free materials like the
CPA Exam Blueprintsand
tutorial and sample testson the AICPA website. You may also want to check out the AICPA’s
digital CPA Exam bookletfor more information on what it takes to become a CPA.