Category: CPA

Chasing the CPA certification? You’re not just adding letters after your name – you’re stepping into a world where your financial expertise drives smarter decisions and defines leadership.

But before you dive in, one question probably stands out – What is the CPA eligibility, and am I qualified to apply? If that’s what you’re wondering, you’re not alone – every CPA journey begins exactly there.

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) means positioning yourself as a trusted global finance leader – someone who doesn’t just crunch numbers but shapes business strategy and advises top organisations. For anyone serious about rising in the finance world, ready to go global, the CPA is a badge of credibility and mastery. It sets you apart, opens global opportunities, and changes not just where you work but how you work. 

This guide simplifies everything you need to know: 

What education do you need?
How does your work experience count?
The step-by-step application process
And how Indian students and professionals can meet the CPA eligibility requirements smoothly.

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🎫Think of CPA eligibility as your boarding pass. It tells that you’re qualified to take the CPA exam without unexpected hurdles. 

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What is CPA?

If you’ve ever wondered what is CPA and what it truly means to be a Certified Public Accountant. You can think of it as an elite designation of global finance professionals trusted to keep businesses financially sound and strategically sharp.

The CPA certification is awarded and governed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It is considered the gold standard in accounting and finance. It’s not just another certification – it’s proof that you understand the language of business at the highest level.

As a CPA, you’re not limited to audit and tax roles. You’re a strategic advisor, helping organisations make smarter financial decisions, ensure compliance, and plan for long-term growth. From global firms like Deloitte and EY to Fortune 500 companies, CPAs are at the heart of every major financial conversation.

In simple terms, if you’re someone who loves numbers but wants to go beyond them – to influence business outcomes, shape financial policies, and lead teams across borders – the CPA course is your passport to a global accounting career.

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CPA Eligibility Requirements: Your Golden Ticket to Certification

Before you begin with your CPA journey, it’s important to know what CPA eligibility really means. Simply put, it’s the set of educational and professional requirements you need to meet before you can sit for the CPA exam or earn your license.

Think of it as your starting checklist – ensuring you have the right academic foundation, relevant work experience, and necessary documentation before you leap.

While the exact CPA eligibility criteria can vary depending on the state board you apply through, the essentials remain the same everywhere:

• Education: A recognised bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field
• Credit Hours: A certain number of credit hours (usually 150) in accounting and business subjects
• Experience: And in some cases, a few years of verified professional experience under a licensed CPA.
  

Meeting these CPA qualifications is your first step toward unlocking worldwide opportunities in finance.

Why Work Experience Matters?

Think of it like learning to drive. You can read the traffic rules and watch “how to drive” videos all day – that’s your theory. The instructor is right there beside you – guiding your hands on the wheel, helping you understand what to do in real situations, pointing out where you can improve, and building your confidence one drive at a time. Only after that real practice can you go and take the driving test to earn your license.

The CPA works the same way. You don’t just study and pass exams – you need real, hands-on work experience under a licensed CPA. This ensures you’re not just good at theory, but confident in handling real financial decisions in the workplace.

A Quick Analogy for Credit Hours

Think of the CPA credit hour requirement like training for a marathon. Your bachelor’s degree has already given you that solid foundation – just like being reasonably fit before you start serious training. But to be fully race-ready, you need some focused preparation. In this case, it means taking a few extra accounting and business courses.

Just like those last training runs help you cross the finish line, those additional credits make sure you’re fully prepared and eligible to take the CPA exam.

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Core CPA Eligibility Criteria: A Detailed Look 

Here’s a quick look at the core eligibility requirements most CPA candidates must meet:

Education

• You’ll typically need 150 semester hours of education. This is usually around a bachelor’s degree plus additional coursework.
• Most candidates meet this through a B.Com + M.Com, B.Com + MBA, or a CA/CMA qualification from India.
• Your degree should include 24-30 semester hours of accounting and business-related subjects.

Experience

• Some U.S. states also require 1-2 years of supervised professional experience under a licensed CPA.
• This ensures you have real-world accounting exposure alongside academic knowledge in areas like public accounting, government, or industry, involving financial analysis, auditing, tax, or management accounting.

Examination
All candidates must clear the Uniform CPA Examination, which consists of four sections:

• Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
• Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
• Regulation (REG)
• Discipline Section: This is a choice-based specialisation, allowing you to focus on your career path – Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR), Information Systems and Controls (ISC), or Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP).

Ethics Exam (in select states)

A few jurisdictions also require an ethics exam or course to confirm your understanding of professional integrity and ethical practice.

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US CPA Eligibility for Indian Students: What You Need to Know

Coming from India, you have some unique considerations, but rest assured, thousands of Indian candidates are in the same boat – and they’re sailing through just fine.

Here’s what usually happens for Indian students pursuing CPA:

• Degree Equivalence: Your Indian degree – be it B.Com, MBA, CA, or CMA – can meet the educational requirements. However, depending on the U.S. state, you might need to add extra credit hours through coursework or certifications to reach the 150-semester-hour mark. Many Indian students pursue a Master of Commerce (M.Com) or a Chartered Accountancy (CA) qualification to fulfil this.
  
• Credential Evaluation: You’ll need to get your academic credentials evaluated by an authorised agency (e.g., NASBA International Evaluation Services, WES) to verify their equivalence to U.S. standards. This step is routine and supported by most states to which Indian candidates apply.
  
• Examination Centres in India: Great news: you can take the CPA exams right here in India at approved testing centres (such as Prometric Centres). No need for an expensive trip abroad, unless you want to!
  
• Experience for Licensure: For licensing, you’ll need relevant experience – usually one to two years – under the supervision of a licensed CPA. This experience can be tracked alongside your studies or even after passing your exams, often from India.

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📍Flexible Exam Centres:

Picture booking a movie ticket at your local theatre instead of having to travel to another city. CPA exams can be taken at approved centres in India, so you don’t have to fly halfway across the world – making the whole eligibility and exam process much more convenient.

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Step-by-Step CPA Application Explained

Getting started is often the hardest part, so here’s a simple checklist you can follow for your CPA application process:

• Verify Your Eligibility – Check if your education background and experience align with your target state’s requirements.
• Submit Your Application – Apply through the state board and submit your academic transcripts and credential evaluations.
• Get your Authorisation to Test – Once approved, you’ll receive an Authorisation to Test (ATT) so you can schedule exams.
• Prepare for and pass the Exams – Pass all four exam parts within 18 months with the use of study guides, coaching, and practice tests.
• Complete Required Experience – Fulfil your supervised work experience as per state requirements.
• Apply for the CPA License – After exams and experience, apply for licensure and start your global career as a CPA.

This process looks daunting on paper, but breaking it down like this reveals it’s totally doable.

Note– Missing or misinterpreting even one requirement can delay your progress significantly – something no one wants after putting in hours of hard work and exam preparation.

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CPA Exam Pattern & Modules 2025: What to Expect

Let’s talk about the CPA exam- and no, it’s not a daunting test. It is a well-designed challenge that really puts your skills to work in scenarios you’ll face in the real world. After all, the CPA isn’t about memorising endless rules; it’s about proving you know how to apply them when the stakes are high.

CPA 2025 Exam Structure

The CPA 2025 exam structure tests how well you can apply accounting and business concepts in real-world scenarios – not just how much you can memorise.

Category	Details
Exam Format (2025)	3 Core sections (mandatory for all) + 1 Discipline section (choose based on your career path).
Exam Duration	Each section lasts 4 hours, giving you enough time to showcase your knowledge and judgment.
Passing Score	You need a minimum score of 75 on each section.
Exam Window	You must pass all four sections within an 18-month rolling period.
Question Types	Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) and Task-Based Simulations (TBSs) that mimic real-world scenarios.

For a comprehensive guide on the most challenging CPA exam section and strategies to conquer it, explore this detailed blog post on the hardest CPA exam section.

The CPA Exam modules are listed below:

Section	Focus Area	What It Covers
Auditing and Attestation (AUD)	Auditing, Risk & Ethics	Audit procedures, Reviewing Financial Records, Assessing Risks, Ensuring Internal Controls are strong, and Professional Ethics.
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)	Financial Reporting	Preparing and Interpreting Financial Statements under frameworks like US GAAP and IFRS.
Regulation (REG)	Taxation & Compliance	Tax Laws, Business Regulations, and Professional Ethics.
Discipline Section	Specialisation	Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR): Financial reporting, analysis, and technical accounting. Information Systems and Controls (ISC): IT governance, security, and internal controls. Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP): Advanced tax planning and compliance.

What’s interesting is that the exam blends traditional multiple-choice questions with task-based simulations. These simulations throw real-life scenarios your way – you’ll be analysing data, making calls, and writing up communications just like you would on the job.

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If you’re serious about laying a strong foundation for your accounting career, this blog can help you ace your CPA exam preparation and achieve career readiness in just 12-18 months.

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Why Getting CPA Eligibility Right Matters

When you earn your CPA license, it isn’t just a career milestone; it is a transformation. You won’t be seen as someone who knows only accounting; you will be a trusted financial advisor whose insights drive growth and shape strategy.

If you’re serious about making the CPA certification your next big career milestone, understanding your eligibility isn’t just a formality – it’s absolutely critical. Getting this step right up front sets the entire stage for your success and ensures your CPA journey is smooth and focused.

So take a moment. Verify your academic credits. Check your work experience records. Get those documents in order. Because this isn’t just preparation – it’s your first smart move toward a career where you’re recognised not just for what you know, but for the impact you create.

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Discover the earning potential of a US CPA in India and abroad, as this video reveals the top career paths, salaries, and global opportunities available to CPA-qualified professionals.

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CPA Eligibility vs CA, ACCA & CFA – Quick Comparison

Choosing the right professional qualification starts with understanding who can apply. Here’s a quick eligibility comparison for top global certifications: 

Criteria	CPA (US)	CA (India)	ACCA	CFA
Minimum Qualification	✅ Bachelor’s Degree	✅ 10+2	✅ 10+2	✅ Bachelor’s / Final Year
Commerce Background Needed	❌	✅ Useful	❌	❌
Extra Credit Requirement	✅ 150 Credits (Bridge Possible)	❌	❌	❌
Work Experience Before Exam	❌	❌	❌	✅ Required for Charter
Global Recognition	✅ Very High	❌ Limited	✅ Good	✅ High

CPA stands out because its eligibility is straightforward, globally recognised, and flexible for both students and working professionals.

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Is CPA worth it?

Absolutely – and not just on paper. But beyond the numbers and requirements, what truly matters is how the CPA can change your career journey in real life.

As a B.Com graduate in India, who always dreamed of working in a global finance environment but felt unsure where to begin. Once you have learned all that was needed with a few additional accounting credits, a credential evaluation, and the right guidance, the path suddenly becomes much clearer.

You can work as an Audit Associate at a leading Big Four firm. The CPA doesn’t just upgrade your qualification – it expands your opportunities, confidence, and career direction.

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Why Choose  Imarticus for Your CPA Journey

I’ve seen how daunting this whole process can be, and that’s where Imarticus Learning steps in. They don’t just teach CPA content; they guide you through eligibility, application, and exam preparation with care and expertise. Join Imarticus Learning’s CPA program to fast-track your journey with:

• Expert instructors who know the CPA rules inside and out.
• Flexible study options that suit your pace.
• Tailored support for Indian students navigating the US CPA system.
• High-quality study materials with premium access and mock exams to build confidence.

If you’re unsure where to start, guided coaching can make the process clearer.

Imarticus Learning helps learners understand eligibility, complete evaluations, prepare for exams, and build confidence with mentor-led support.

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Key Takeaways

✅CPA eligibility means meeting education (bachelor’s + credits), experience (1-2 years supervised), and exam requirements specific to your jurisdiction.

✅Indian degrees such as B.Com, M.Com, MBA Finance, CA, or CMA can fulfil educational criteria, but be ready for variations state-by-state.

✅CPA is accessible with the right guidance and preparation, even if you’re not a CA or don’t have an accounting background.

✅With focused effort, clearing the CPA in 1 year is achievable.

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Discover how you can transition from CPA to CFO with expert guidance, real-world learning, and the essential leadership skills to excel at the top of your finance career.

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FAQs on CPA Eligibility

If you’re thinking about the CPA eligibility, you probably might have a few more questions buzzing in your head. Here are a few frequently asked questions to clear things up about CPA eligibility.

Who is eligible for CPA?

Anyone with a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with around 120-150 semester credit hours in accounting and business-related subjects is eligible for CPA. Most US states also expect 1-2 years of professional experience under a licensed CPA before granting your license.

If you’ve done a B.Com, M.Com, MBA (Finance), or hold professional qualifications like CA or CMA, you’re already on the right track – though the exact requirements vary by state.

Can I do CPA directly after 12th?

Not yet – you can’t jump into the CPA right after Class 12. You’ll first need to complete your bachelor’s degree with the required accounting credits.

Some states may allow you to sit for the exam in your final year, but you must finish your degree before applying for the license.

Is CPA harder than CA?

CPA and CA have different focuses and difficulty levels; CA is intensive in Indian tax laws, audit, and accounting, renowned for its low pass rates. CPA is rigorous with a global outlook, emphasising U.S. GAAP, auditing, and regulations, but is often seen as more accessible with structured preparation. Which is “harder” depends on your background and exam preparation approach.

Can I become a CPA without being a CA?

Absolutely! You don’t need to be a CA to become a CPA. As long as you meet the education, exam, and experience criteria set by your state board, you’re eligible – no prior certification required.  Imarticus Learning guides students through the evaluation and state selection process so you can choose the right state board based on your educational background.

What is the minimum educational requirement to be eligible for the CPA exam in the US?

Most U.S. states require candidates to have 150 semester hours of education. This typically means a bachelor’s degree (around 120 hours) plus an additional 30 semester hours of coursework in accounting and business-related subjects. 

Can Indian students take the CPA exam?

Yes, Indian students are eligible to take the CPA exam. They must meet the educational requirements – usually 150 semester hours, which is often achieved through a combination of Indian degrees like B.Com + M.Com, B.Com + CA, or B.Com + MBA and have their academic credentials evaluated by an authorised agency for U.S. equivalency.

Is an M.Com or CA qualification sufficient for CPA eligibility?

Yes, B.Com + M.Com, B.Com + CA, or B.Com + MBA typically help meet the 150-hour requirement.

However, it’s smart to get your credits pre-checked. Imarticus Learning helps you assess whether your degree combination meets the credit hour and subject-specific criteria for your target CPA state board.

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Your CPA Eligibility: The First Step Toward Global Success

Getting your CPA eligibility sorted is more than just a requirement – it’s your entry pass to a global finance career. The CPA isn’t just about knowing numbers. It’s the ability to think like a leader, making strategic decisions, and becoming the professional companies trust at the highest level.

And the best part?

With the right guidance, the journey is absolutely achievable. You don’t require a commerce background or years of experience to begin your CPA certification journey. Take that first small step with clarity, a simple plan, and confidence.

So take a moment – check where you stand, see what’s required, and start at your own pace.

You’re closer than you think. Your future as a globally recognised CPA is waiting.

You’ve completed your commerce degree. You’ve spent late nights balancing ledgers, deciphering financial statements and trying to imagine what your career could really become. Now you’re asking the big question: What comes next?

For many ambitious finance professionals in India, the answer lies in taking the leap from good to global, and that’s precisely where the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential shows its edge. Before diving into the CPA course details, let’s answer the question every aspirant asks – how long does it actually take? But one thing stands between you and that global career: What’s the realistic CPA course duration?

Here’s the truth: the CPA journey can be completed in 12 to 18 months for most motivated candidates – yes, you can go from working in Indian finance to holding a globally recognised qualification within a year to a year and a half. But “12 to 18 months” only scratches the surface. What it doesn’t capture is the preparation time, the exam windows, the eligibility steps, the state board filings and the strategy involved.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every part of that timeline: what the CPA course duration really means in India, how you should plan your months and milestones, how the exam structure is designed, and how you can integrate the process with your current job or studies. At Imarticus Learning, we’ve helped countless candidates accelerate this path – we’re here to help you too.

So let’s unpack your roadmap to global accounting recognition –  starting now.

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What is the CPA Course?

Let us begin by understanding what is CPA.

The Certified Public Accountant, or CPA, isn’t just another accounting credential you add to your resume – it’s a genuine passport to the world of global finance. Recognised not only in the US but across more than 130 countries, the CPA opens up doors to exciting international roles, leadership positions, and a level of professional trust that really makes employers notice you.

But what exactly does the CPA course prepare you for? Well, it’s designed for people who want to go beyond just crunching numbers. It helps you build the skills to interpret complex financial data, analyse reports, and lead in areas like auditing, taxation, and strategic financial management – all the critical elements businesses rely on to grow and stay compliant.

Put simply, being a CPA means you’re not just someone who deals with accounts. You’re a trusted financial advisor whom companies look to for ethical judgment, clear insights, and expertise that spans across borders.

The course itself is governed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and to earn the CPA title, you’ll need to tick three important boxes: meet educational and eligibility requirements, pass four challenging exam sections, and complete experience requirements set by a U.S. state board.

For Indian students and working professionals, this means gaining a qualification that’s respected worldwide, especially by multinational corporations, the Big 4 firms, and top consulting companies.

And here’s the best part – you can get your CPA certification in as little as 12 to 18 months. That’s a lot faster than many other international finance qualifications. No wonder more and more finance grads and professionals in India are choosing CPA as their fast-track ticket to exciting, global finance careers.

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Did you know?
The US CPA course duration is one of the shortest among global accounting qualifications, making it an ideal next step for ambitious finance professionals.

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Why Pursue the CPA in 2025?

The world of finance isn’t what it used to be. Technology is transforming how things get done – automation is taking over routine accounting tasks, and companies are spreading their wings far beyond borders. In this fast-changing landscape, financial leaders aren’t just number crunchers anymore; they’re expected to think big, strategise, and guide businesses through complexity.

That’s exactly why 2025 feels like the perfect moment to consider the CPA course.

Because the CPA is more than just a certificate. It’s a signal to employers that you’ve got the smarts, the ethics, and the sharp analytical skills to tackle the toughest global finance challenges. 

As Indian companies and multinationals race to find talent who know both local rules and international standards, CPA professionals are stepping into the spotlight – taking on roles where they’re not just needed, but actively sought after.

Ready to start your CPA journey the smart way? Don’t miss our expert tips on how to prepare effectively for the CPA exam.

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Already a CPA and wondering what’s next? Watch this video to learn how to chart your path from CPA to CFO – mastering the leadership, strategy, and executive skills that define top finance leaders.

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What Makes the CPA Unique in 2025? 

First off, global recognition. The CPA isn’t just respected in the US – it’s accepted across Canada, Australia, the Middle East, and much of Asia too. In other words, it gives you the freedom to move and work almost anywhere on the planet.

Then there’s the career boost. CPAs are among the top picks for roles in auditing, financial analysis, consulting, taxation, and leadership. Whether it’s with the Big 4 accounting giants or Fortune 500 companies, a CPA credential puts you right in the running.

Now, let’s talk about money. CPA professionals typically earn 30-40% more than their non-certified peers, and it’s easy to see why. In roles like Finance Controller, Audit Manager, or those on the fast track to becoming CFOs, their expertise and global credibility make all the difference.

How about time? Unlike other international accounting courses that can drag on for 3 to 4 years, you can finish your CPA in just 12 to 18 months. That makes it one of the fastest and smartest routes to a globally respected qualification.

And don’t forget job security. With constantly evolving regulations and the rising focus on ESG and cross-border taxation, companies are eager to hire professionals who really know their stuff – like CPAs with US GAAP and IFRS expertise.

Simply put, the CPA is your ticket to moving beyond just balancing the books. It puts you in a position to influence the business, make strategic decisions, and lead with confidence.

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Wondering how long it really takes to complete the CPA course in India? On average, most candidates wrap it up in about 12 to 18 months, depending on their pace, work commitments, and study strategy.

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CPA Course Duration – A Realistic Breakdown

Let’s be real – one of the very first questions on every CPA aspirant’s mind is, “How long is this going to take?” After all, it’s a big commitment, and you want to plan your life accordingly.

The answer? For most people, it takes somewhere between 12 to 18 months to go from being an accounting graduate in India to holding that globally recognised CPA credential. That’s right – in about a year, you could be certified and ready to take on the world.

But here’s the real thing – the timeline can look different for everyone. It’s not just about passing the exams; there’s a whole process behind the scenes. You have to tick off eligibility checks, meet licensing requirements, and balance studying with life and work.

But the timeline can look a little different for everyone. Let’s unpack what really goes into it.

How Long Does It Take to Become a CPA

Completing the CPA isn’t just about passing exams – it’s about ticking every box, from eligibility to licensing.
This breakdown gives a practical overview of the CPA course duration in months, helping you plan your preparation realistically.

Stage	Duration	What Happens Here
Eligibility Evaluation	1-2 months	Your academic transcripts are verified, and your state board is selected.
Exam Preparation	6-9 months	You study for all four sections – one at a time or back-to-back, depending on your schedule.
Exam Completion	3-6 months	You appear for each of the four CPA exams.
Result & Licensing	1-2 months	Results, work-experience validation, and the final licensing step.

If you’re planning your CPA course timeline in India, most candidates finish all four sections within 6 to 18 months – depending on work schedules and study pace.

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Interesting Fact – Many learners complete the entire process in under a year with structured study plans and mentorship, proof that efficiency is all about the right guidance.

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CPA Exam Duration: The Hours That Matter

Each CPA exam section runs for 4 hours, covering the four core pillars of global accounting.

Section	Type	Duration	What You’ll Learn
Auditing & Attestation (AUD)	Core	4 hours	Learn auditing standards, internal controls, ethics, and professional responsibilities – the backbone of every CPA’s credibility.
Financial Accounting & Reporting (FAR)	Core	4 hours	Master U.S. GAAP, financial statements, and reporting frameworks that form the foundation of global accounting practices.
Regulation (REG)	Core	4 hours	Build a solid understanding of U.S. taxation, business law, and professional ethics – essential for compliance and advisory roles.
Discipline Section (BAR / ISC / TCP)	Specialisation	4 hours	Choose your area of expertise – Business Analysis & Reporting (BAR), Information Systems & Controls (ISC), or Tax Compliance & Planning (TCP) – introduced in 2025 to reflect evolving industry needs.

Total exam time: 16 hours – but it’s the preparation that counts.

You can find a detailed breakdown of each exam module in the ‘Uniform CPA Examination Blueprints’ published and approved by the AICPA Board of Examiners.

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The good news? 

There’s no fixed exam window anymore, so you can schedule each test when you’re ready – no waiting around for months.

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CPA Study Duration: How Much Time You’ll Need

Your study timeline depends entirely on your lifestyle. A full-time student might breeze through faster than a working professional juggling deadlines and weekend study sessions.

Study Style	Weekly Hours	Typical Duration
Full-time focus	25-30 hrs/week	8-10 months
Working professional	12-15 hrs/week	10-12 months
Weekend learners	8-10 hrs/week	12-14 months

Depending on your pace, you can wrap up all four sections in 6 to 12 months – that’s the typical CPA course duration in months for most candidates aiming to complete their exams efficiently.

Looking for trusted study materials? Explore our curated list of must-read CPA books to enhance your exam preparation.

Need help identifying which CPA section is toughest? Here’s a deep dive into which CPA Exam Section is considered the Toughest?.

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Pro tip: Tackle one section every 6-8 weeks. Most successful candidates clear all four exams within a year using this rhythm.

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A Realistic Month-by-month Timeline

Here’s how a typical CPA course duration unfolds for Indian aspirants:

• Months 1-2: Apply for evaluation, choose your state board, and finalise documentation.
• Months 3-4: Begin prep for your first exam section.
• Months 5-10: Attempt all four exams, one every couple of months.
• Months 11-12: Receive results, submit experience proofs, and complete licensing.

That’s it, 12 months of commitment for a credential that can transform your career trajectory.

What Can Affect Your CPA Timeline?

Everyone’s CPA journey moves at its own pace. These factors often make the difference:

• Your background: Candidates with CA, ACCA, or accounting degrees usually finish faster.
• Your schedule: Balancing work and study might extend the timeline slightly.
• State board rules: Some boards have extra documentation or credit-hour needs.
• Your support system: Guided training can save months of confusion and re-attempts.

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Want to know how to balance your CPA prep with a busy job schedule? Check out our detailed guide on how to pass the CPA exam while working full-time.

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CPA Course Duration for Working Professionals

If you are wondering whether you can pursue a CPA while working? The answer is absolutely yes. In fact, many professionals do.

Since exams are offered throughout the year, you can easily pace your preparation alongside your job. With the right strategy and guidance, most working professionals complete their CPA within 12-18 months, balancing learning with experience.

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Fact: For working professionals, the CPA course duration typically extends to 14-18 months with part-time study.

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Career Transformation Through CPA

If you’ve ever wondered how a professional qualification can truly change the course of your life, the CPA journey offers some inspiring examples across different backgrounds.

BCom Graduate Pathway

If you are fresh out of a commerce degree, wide-eyed and eager to make your mark, the path ahead can feel vast and a bit overwhelming. You hear about the CPA – a global credential that could turn local dreams into worldwide opportunities. With a little guidance, you can dive into the eligibility process, sorting through transcripts and choosing a state board.

• The initial months usually go between preparation and paperwork, but steady effort pays off. 
• By dedicating just 12-15 hours a week, you can confidently tackle each CPA exam section – one step at a time. 
• And before you know it, within a year, that distant goal will become your reality: you’ll be a globally certified accountant, ready to take on roles at Big 4 firms or leading multinational companies.

The CPA isn’t just a qualification – it’s proof of your dedication, resilience, and the journey you took to get there.

CA Pathway

Now picture yourself as a mid-career professional, already qualified as a CA, with years clocked in Indian finance firms but craving that global edge. The eligibility check is a breeze – your background aligns perfectly. Juggling a demanding job, you carve out time over weekends and evenings, pacing your study smartly.

• With a mentor’s encouragement and a clear plan, you clear the exams section by section over the next 10 months. 
• When that CPA license lands in your hands around month 14, it unlocks new doors – international assignments, cross-border taxation roles, and leadership tracks.

The CPA becomes the smart boost that complements your existing expertise and propels you onto the global stage.

Working Professional Pathway

Imagine a working professional, managing a full-time job and family commitments, who wonders if a CPA is even possible. With determination, they craft a part-time study schedule stretching across 15 months. Progress is steady – no rush, no burnout. They lean on structured courses and mentorship, celebrating small wins with each passed section. 

• In the end, this balance between persistence and planning pays off. 
• The CPA credential boosts their profile at work, leading to promotions and new responsibilities. 
• The journey proves that even with a busy life, ambition backed by a smart strategy can transform careers.

Before you plan your study calendar or look into the CPA course duration, it’s crucial to check your CPA course eligibility.

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Thinking about becoming a US CPA? Watch this video to explore real US CPA salary insights and top career roles across India and abroad, and see why it’s one of the most rewarding finance qualifications worldwide.

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CPA Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?

Before you plan your study calendar or look into the CPA course duration, there’s one important question to answer:
Are you eligible for the CPA exam? Here’s your guide to CPA eligibility.

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential is regulated by the U.S. state boards, each with its own eligibility requirements. While that may sound complicated, it really comes down to one thing – having the right educational background in accounting and business.

If you’re based in India, here’s how it works:

• BCom + MCom holders meet the 150-credit rule.
• CA, CMA, or CS professionals are also eligible in most states.
• BCom graduates may need to complete a postgraduate program or additional coursework.

Each US state board has its own criteria, so the team at Imarticus Learning helps you choose the one that best fits your academic profile. That way, you can focus on studying – not on paperwork.

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Want to see the CPA journey in action? Watch this short video where our mentors walk through the realistic steps you’ll take in becoming a CPA. 

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How Imarticus Learning Helps You Ace It

At Imarticus Learning, we don’t just help you prepare for the CPA exam; we help you build a career. Our CPA program, powered by Becker, is designed to fit around your schedule and goals, whether you’re a working professional or a student aiming to fast-track your success.

You get end-to-end mentorship from eligibility evaluation to license guidance, and globally trusted and exam-aligned materials. So while the CPA course might seem challenging, with the right mentorship and structure, you’re never doing it alone.

We’ve designed our CPA program around the latest 2025 syllabus and structure. You’ll get:

• Expert-led sessions that simplify even the toughest US GAAP and tax concepts.
• Real-time simulations and mock tests to track your readiness.
• A clear, personalised study plan aligned with your CPA course duration goals.

Because the CPA isn’t just another certification – it’s your stepping stone to becoming a trusted finance leader, equipped to make a global impact.

Ready to start your CPA journey? Explore the Imarticus Learning CPA program powered by Becker – structured to fit your schedule and designed for real results.

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Still debating between CPA and CA? Watch this quick breakdown to discover which qualification can accelerate your rise to global finance leadership faster.

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Why Should You Choose CPA Over Other Courses?

If you’re looking for a globally recognised, fast-paced qualification that delivers real returns, the CPA course stands out as a smart investment in both time and money. This table gives a short overview of how CPA is better than other finance certifications.

Course	Global Reach	Fast Duration	High Salary (India)
CPA (USA)	✔️	✔️	✔️
CA (India)	❌	❌	❌
CMA (USA)	✔️	✔️	✔️
ACCA (UK)	✔️	❌	❌

When it comes to CPA duration in India, most learners complete the course in about a year, making it one of the fastest pathways to becoming a globally recognised accounting professional.

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Key Takeaway– When you compare the CPA course duration and fees to other global programs like CMA or ACCA, CPA offers faster ROI.

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Planning to build your finance career in Canada? Watch this video to uncover whether CPA US or CMA US is the smarter route for your global goals, career growth, and salary potential.

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FAQs About CPA Course Duration

You’ve now got a clear picture of how the CPA course works – from eligibility and structure to fees and scope. But if you still have some questions in your mind. Here are a few frequently asked questions about CPA Course Duration.

How long does it take to complete the CPA Course?

On average, for Indian aspirants, the CPA course duration ranges between 12 to 24 months, depending on your background, preparation strategy. And study pace. Many candidates finish all four exam sections within a year when following a consistent preparation schedule.

Is CPA harder than CA?

Not necessarily. The CPA course is different, not harder. CA focuses deeply on Indian accounting and taxation, while CPA tests your understanding of U.S. GAAP and global accounting principles. The CA exam has three levels after 12th grade and 2 levels if you start after graduation. Whereas CPA has no levels and just four sections, which makes the passing rates quite higher compared to CA. With structured preparation and the right study plan, most candidates find the CPA exam more straightforward and quicker to complete.

Can I complete CPA in 1 year?

Yes, if you stay consistent, plan smartly, and focus on one section at a time, you can easily complete the CPA course in 12 months or even less. Many working professionals do it while managing full-time jobs with guided mentorship.

Can I pass the CPA in 3 months?

Yes, it’s ambitious and challenging, but not impossible. If you can dedicate full-time hours to preparation, you could complete one or even two sections within 3 months. However, finishing all four in that time requires an intensive study plan and complete focus.

How many attempts are required to pass the CPA?

With the right strategy and coaching, most candidates clear each section in one attempt. The CPA exam allows multiple retakes, but consistent practice, mock tests, and time management can go a long way in ensuring you pass on the first attempt.

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Take the Smartest Route to a Global Accounting Career

At its core, the CPA course isn’t just a certification – it’s a career catalyst. In a world where finance professionals are expected to go beyond spreadsheets and actually drive strategy, becoming a CPA gives you that global edge. It tells employers you understand not just accounting principles, but the business impact behind every number.

And the best part? The CPA course duration makes it one of the most time-efficient ways to earn a globally respected credential. In as little as 12-18 months, you can move from being a local finance graduate to a global accounting professional – trusted by Big 4 firms, multinational corporations, and financial consultancies worldwide.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take your accounting career global – this is it.

The CPA certification is your pathway to international opportunities, faster promotions, and the kind of professional credibility that makes people listen when you speak.