The Kreative Group

The process of earning 150 credit hours is simpler than most of us realize. Many CPA state boards also specify the level of accounting courses you must take. They often limit lower-level accounting descending order of current assets classes and require more upper-level (junior-level and above, 300+) courses. Yes, some states let you sit for the exam with less than 120 credit hours if you’re close to graduating.

Embrace the opportunities that lie ahead and continue to expand your knowledge, skills, and expertise in the accounting profession. Now that you know the steps involved, it’s important to consider additional tips for success as you pursue your goal of becoming a CPA without an accounting degree. If you’re already on that path, and you’re ready to start studying for the CPA exam, enlist the help of the best CPA test prep provider in the industry. After passing all sections of the CPA exam, you’ll need to pass the AICPA ethics exam. The goal of the firm is to provide superior 1-on-1 tutoring at an affordable price. After meticulously analyzing the CPA exam market, Vishal felt a lot of the CPA review courses didn’t do so.

• It is a three-section exam that tests the candidate’s knowledge of investment tools and analysis, portfolio management, wealth planning, and asset valuation.
• You can also begin the CMA certification process before you complete a degree or even if you have a degree in a different field, by passing the exams and gaining the required work experience.
• One alternative path is through a master’s degree in accounting or a related field.
• CPAs are trusted professionals who provide crucial financial and tax advice to businesses and individuals.
• If you’re unsure which career path to pursue, CPA, CIA, or CMA, working while you decide will give you first-hand knowledge and connections.
• To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

When I started my career, I had relocated to Atlanta where I really didn’t know anybody. In other words, my life was pretty quiet and it was easy to meet my work commitments and have a great deal of discretionary time left over. Obtaining the prestigious Certifed Public Accountant (CPA) certification without an accounting degree is an attainable goal with the right mindset, determination, and a well-executed plan. While a traditional accounting degree may be the most common path, there are alternative routes available for individuals with diverse educational backgrounds. With this section concluded, we have provided a comprehensive guide on becoming a CPA without an accounting degree.

Meet The Work Experience Requirements

Develop a study routine that works for you, leverage quality review materials, and regularly assess your progress to adjust your study plan as needed. With dedication, focus, and a well-structured approach, you can confidently tackle the CPA exam and move closer to attaining your CPA certification. With relevant work experience under your belt, you’re one step closer 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. These skills are highly valued in the accounting profession and will contribute to your success as a CPA.

Most states require CPAs to complete continuing education credits annually to maintain their certification. CPAs can pursue continuing education through professional organizations and colleges, both in person and online. You will also need to have 1 to 2 years of relevant job experience on your resume in order to receive your CPA certification. 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. Regardless of which category you belong to, Intuit will provide additional resources to support your professional development.

Topics on the exam cover legal and regulatory issues, the importance of maintaining independence from client/employer, and the code of conduct of the AICPA. Keep in mind that some states do not accept the AICPA’s Ethics Exam to meet these requirements, so be sure to check with your State Board of Accountancy for more information. Each section consists of multiple choice questions and task-based simulations that assess your technical competence in accounting and related fields.

CPA license: 4 steps to get your license

These alternative paths allow individuals with diverse educational backgrounds to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in accounting and gain eligibility for the CPA certification. It’s important to carefully review the educational requirements of your state board of accountancy to ensure you meet all the necessary coursework criteria. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the requirements, consider reaching out to your state board for clarification. To become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), you need to fulfill specific education requirements set by your state board of accountancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) On How To Become A CPA

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. Remember, each state has specific regulations, so it is crucial to review and consult with your state board of accountancy to ensure you have accurate and up-to-date information on the eligibility criteria. Their guidance will help you make informed decisions and ensure you meet the necessary requirements to become a CPA without an accounting degree.

WILEY EFFICIENT LEARNING

Additionally, you may be able to work as an administrator at an accounting firm, accounts receivable or payable clerk, and other supportive roles. If you have attended any seminars or conferences that were accounting-related, you will also want to mention these on your resume. Let’s break down some of the ways you can become an accountant without a degree. Demand for accountants is expected to grow 6% annually through 2028, and CPAs are considered to be the most qualified accountants in industry. CPAs must have strong mathematical, analytical, critical thinking, organizational and communication skills, and they must be detail-oriented when working with financial information and documents.

Find study guides, instructional videos, and tutors available to meet instantly online. We sat with Professor Jack Castonguay to learn what he has to say about pursuing your CPA as a non-accounting major. The short answer is YES; you don’t have to study accountancy to become a Certified Public Accountant. So if you’re ready to start your own CPA firm, check out our resources on how to start a tax prep business, and fill out this form to get more information about Intuit TurboTax Verified Pro. Though the path to becoming a CPA is pretty consistent across most states, the time it takes to obtain your license may differ slightly depending on your location and current education.

The CPA exam prep course will cover the exam topics that were included in the colleges courses that non-accounting majors didn’t take. Keep in mind, only some states allow CPA candidates to study for the CPA exam without a degree in accounting. As mentioned before, candidates without accounting degrees can become CPAs provided they meet the particular state board’s rules for application. In most cases, they need to fulfill the 120-credit hours rule to be eligible to apply. To obtain the license, they need to have credit hours more from work experience, i.e., 150 hours.

Being a CPA identifies you as someone who knows the ins and outs of accounting. Now that you know all about the CPA requirements, you can take the next step toward becoming a CPA. Therefore, once you narrow down your state board options, you might want to confirm that they accept part-time work by emailing them directly. The best way to get your previous experience verified is to either apply for a restricted license from Guam or Massachusetts or register in a state with lower work experience supervision standards.