How to Apply for the CPA Exam

In 2023, over 86,000 candidates took the CPA exam to pursue a career path in accounting. However, to get to that point, these candidates first had to meet eligibility standards, apply, and get approved to take the exam.

If you’re wondering how to apply for CPA exam eligibility yourself, you’re in the right place.

I’ve been in your shoes, so I’m here to walk you through the ins and outs of the CPA exam application process, help alleviate your overwhelm, and get you on the right path to a rewarding, high-paying, and satisfying career. Let’s go!

Key Takeaways

• Understand Your State’s Requirements: Each state has different rules for eligibility, so check your Board of Accountancy’s specific guidelines.
• Submit Transcripts and Pay Fees: You’ll need to submit official transcripts and pay an application fee as part of the process.
• Receive Your Notice To Schedule (NTS): Once approved, you’ll get an NTS, which allows you to schedule each CPA exam section.
• Schedule Your Exam: Use your NTS to book a test date at a Prometric testing center for each CPA exam section.
• Budget For Exam Costs: Exam candidates should be prepared to cover exam fees for each section, along with potential rescheduling fees and other costs.

The CPA Exam Application Process, Step-by-Step

Applying for the CPA exam is a big step, and while the process can vary depending on your state, there are some universal steps that all CPA candidates must follow.

1. Check Eligibility Requirements

First things first, you’ll need to check if you meet the education requirements. Each state sets its own rules for qualification. The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy, or NASBA, is a great resource to check exactly what you need. However, most states require:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
• A certain number of credit hours in accounting (usually 150 hours, but it can vary by state).
• You may need to submit your college transcripts to prove that you meet the education criteria.

It’s important to acknowledge that 150 hours is 30 credit hours over the amount needed for a bachelor’s degree, so you’ll have to add some supplemental classes or perhaps add an additional major or certification. Once you’re confident that you qualify, it’s time to get started on the actual application.

2. Submit Your CPA Exam Application

Your next step is to apply for the CPA exam through your state’s Board of Accountancy or another designated body. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Official transcripts from your university. These must show your degree and coursework to confirm you meet the education requirements.
• A completed CPA exam application form. Be sure to double-check that you’ve included all necessary details, like your full name and any middle initials or middle names that might appear on your transcripts.
• Payment for the application fee varies by state.

Once your application is submitted, the waiting game begins. The review process can take several weeks, so be patient.

3. Receive Your Notice to Schedule (NTS)

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS). This is an important document because it includes your Exam Section ID, which allows you to schedule your exam.

The NTS is valid for six months in most states, but double-check your jurisdiction’s rules to avoid missing the deadline. Your NTS also details the CPA exam sections you’re approved to take. There are three core sections and three discipline sections of the CPA exam. Although you must take all of the core sections, you only need to choose one of the three discipline sections.

You can schedule your exam sections in any order you like, but make sure to give yourself enough time to prepare for each one.

4. Schedule Your Exam at a Prometric Testing Center

Once you’ve got your NTS, it’s time to schedule your exam at a Prometric testing center. Prometric is the official testing provider for the CPA exam, and they have locations all over the world. To schedule:

• Go to Prometric’s website and enter your launch code from the NTS.
• Select a testing center and choose your desired date.
• Confirm your exam details and schedule it. Keep in mind that you’ll be required to bring identification documents (like a driver’s license or passport) to the testing center.

If you need to reschedule, there’s a rescheduling fee depending on how far in advance you make the change.

5. Sit for the CPA Exam

The big day! When you arrive at the testing center, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. You’ll go through a check-in process where the staff will verify your identification documents and assign you a station. Be prepared to sit for multiple hours, as each exam section is around four hours long.

During the test, you’ll be given a launch code to access the exam. After the exam is over, you can breathe a sigh of relief and wait for the score releases!

How Much Does It Cost to Apply for the CPA Exam?

CPA exam fees can add up, so it’s important to budget for all the expenses involved:

• Application fee: Each state charges a fee when you first apply. This can range from $50 to $200.
• CPA exam section fees: This varies greatly by state. However, most candidates will pay around $345 per exam section.
• Rescheduling fees: If you need to change your exam date, there could be an additional cost, depending on when you make the change.
• Retake fees: If you fail a section of an exam, you have to pay the application and exam fees again to retake it.
• Other costs: Some states may charge a fee for processing your official transcripts or other identification documents. You’ll also want to invest in a prep course, which can cost around $3k for the best options.

In total, expect to pay anywhere from $4,500 for the entire CPA exam process, including all exam sections and fees.

Conclusion

Applying for the CPA exam might seem overwhelming, but hopefully, by breaking it down step-by-step, the process now feels a lot more manageable for you. From meeting your education requirements to scheduling your tests, each step gets you closer to earning that prestigious CPA credential.

And, as the CPA exam is notoriously difficult, with pass rates hovering around 50%, the sooner you can start studying for the exam, the better. The exam is difficult, but with the right study materials and the great CPA review course that fits your needs, you can absolutely pass every section of the exam on your first try.

Above all else, remember that life rewards you when you put in the work, and I know you’ve got this. Good luck on your CPA journey!

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