How To Become CPA Without Accounting Degree

how to get cpa without accounting degree

Be aware that while most states will accept non-public accounting work experience (corporate or government accounting, for example), there are some that will not. When you decide to move forward with the CPA Exam, be sure to consider partnering with a CPA prep course. Studying for and successfully passing the CPA Exam is one of the most difficult endeavors you will undertake along your CPA journey, so set yourself up for success by studying with a CPA Review course. If you’re not sure which CPA Review course to take, find out how to choose a CPA Review course.

Building Back Academic Stamina:

how to get cpa without accounting degree

You will need to complete educational requirements specified by the state in which you plan to obtain your license. Examples of states you could apply to when you don’t plan to work https://www.bookkeeping-reviews.com/ under a CPA include the jurisdictions of Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Virginia. So, as long as you work in a relevant field, you can get a license for one of these states.

Time Away from College:

Therefore, you must acquire additional education to meet the CPA education requirement of 150 credit hours. Many states require candidates to have more upper-level accounting and business courses than a typical bachelor’s degree involves. Others maintain that an accounting degree covers the coursework they’d like to see in a CPA candidate. Unlike the CPA license, the CMA requirement is a bachelor’s degree in any discipline.

How to Become a CPA

After taking the CPA Exam, some candidates in certain jurisdictions will have to take the ethics exam. The ethics exam is an exam that covers the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Code of Professional Conduct and Accounting Rules. It examines how well a future CPA would handle professional ethics questions they may encounter during their time working in the accounting profession. The exam is a reminder to CPAs about the conduct expected and required of them when working with and in professional organizations.

  1. Some states may require an ethics exam, while others require licensed CPAs to participate in continuing professional education (CPE) annually to maintain their certification.
  2. Setting realistic expectations, factoring in additional preparation time, and incorporating study stamina-building practices contribute to a plan that maximizes the chances of success.
  3. While it might seem like a  lot of requirements to become a CPA, the time and effort are worth it.
  4. Each section of the CPA exam is designed to assess specific areas of expertise necessary for a CPA.
  5. There are some workarounds and some exceptions for students who are planning to obtain their degree within a certain timeframe of registering for the exam.

As an accounting major, this can be easier as you may have an internship or school-sponsored job to help you cover this requirement. However, non-accounting majors can still fulfill this requirement by working for a few years in a public accounting job. For this, you need a minimum number of accounting credit hours which varies from state to state.

It may require additional effort to bridge any gaps in knowledge or experience. However, with the right resources and mindset, you can overcome any challenges and become a highly qualified CPA. With this section concluded, we have provided a comprehensive guide on becoming a CPA without an accounting degree. Remember to customize your approach based on your individual circumstances and consult with your state board of accountancy for specific requirements unique to your jurisdiction.

Before you get started, you should check with your state’s licensing board to determine the exact qualifications you need to meet. Each state is different, so this can also be a time to shop around if https://www.bookkeeping-reviews.com/real-estate-accounting/ a certain state’s requirements are easier for you to reach than another’s. As you explore how to become a CPA without a degree in accounting, you should also consider the other demands on your time.

how to get cpa without accounting degree

Stay confident, trust in your preparation, and remain determined throughout the exam process. With a well-executed plan, dedication, and perseverance, you will maximize your chances of success. With relevant work experience under your belt, you’re one step closer how to use xero tracking categories to becoming a CPA. The next crucial step is to prepare for and successfully pass the CPA exam, which we’ll explore in the next section. Non-traditional candidates often juggle various commitments, including personal and professional responsibilities.

Massachusetts is another option because it offers a non-reporting license. Instead, due to the popularity of leniency in this area, you have several options for fulfilling the CPA work experience requirement. The process of earning 150 credit hours is simpler than most of us realize. Yes, some states let you sit for the exam with less than 120 credit hours if you’re close to graduating. Candidates have 4 hours of total testing time for each exam section, and they must pass all 4 sections of the exam within a 30-month period.

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