4 answers
2
Questions
Updated
3039 views
As a rising senior, how can I be aware and start preparing to take the CPA Exam??
I am wanting to major in accounting, looking to pursue a career as a CPA. What steps can I take now to make sure that I am prepared and aware of everything related to the CPA Exam?
Login to comment
4 answers
Updated
April’s Answer
It's great that you're thinking about this now—you're already ahead of the game!
1. Check your state's requirements. Each state has its own rules for taking the exam. Most need 150 credit hours, including advanced accounting classes. This might mean going to grad school or finding another path like a dual major, summer classes, or extra electives. Look at all your options.
2. Consider the experience requirement. Most states also need you to work for a year under a licensed CPA before you're fully licensed. Start looking for internships or co-ops now. This will help you meet the requirement and give you valuable experience in the field.
3. Try to start the exam before you begin full-time work. The best time to take the exam is while you're still in school or right after graduation. This way, you can focus better before a full-time job takes up more of your time.
1. Check your state's requirements. Each state has its own rules for taking the exam. Most need 150 credit hours, including advanced accounting classes. This might mean going to grad school or finding another path like a dual major, summer classes, or extra electives. Look at all your options.
2. Consider the experience requirement. Most states also need you to work for a year under a licensed CPA before you're fully licensed. Start looking for internships or co-ops now. This will help you meet the requirement and give you valuable experience in the field.
3. Try to start the exam before you begin full-time work. The best time to take the exam is while you're still in school or right after graduation. This way, you can focus better before a full-time job takes up more of your time.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Shay
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
When I was your age and knew I wanted to be a CPA, I sort out CPAs in my community. Back then we used a telephone book. Now you have the Internet. Find CPAs in your local community and ask for a 15 minute meeting. Your objective in that meeting is to learn their journey. Talk to CPA’s of all genders and backgrounds. Once you collect all those stories, let it be inspiration for your journey ahead. Don’t forget to send each one of them a note and thank them for what you learned.
Updated
Bob’s Answer
1. Learn About Education Requirements
Each state has its own rules, but generally, you’ll need 150 semester hours of education. A bachelor’s degree usually covers 120 hours.
You'll need a specific number of accounting and business courses.
Think about ways to meet the 150-hour requirement if your undergraduate program doesn’t cover it, like a second major or graduate courses.
Action:
Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website for detailed requirements. NASBA is a good starting point.
2. Plan Your Final Year Carefully
Ensure you’re taking the necessary accounting courses, such as auditing, taxation, and advanced financial accounting. Also, consider courses that will help with your CPA exam.
Action:
Meet with your academic advisor to confirm you’re on track for 150 hours and taking CPA-related courses.
3. Decide When to Take the CPA Exam
Many students start the CPA Exam during their final semester or soon after graduation. Some states let you take the exam before completing all 150 hours if you’re nearly done.
Action:
Create a timeline for studying and taking each section, considering available windows and your personal schedule.
4. Find a CPA Review Course
There are many trusted providers, like Becker and Wiley. Many firms cover the cost of a review course once you get a job offer.
Action:
Research now to find a study style that works for you. Some courses offer student discounts or early access.
5. Understand the Exam Format
Visit the AICPA website to review sample questions and testing procedures. Practice is key.
Action:
Try some practice questions and familiarize yourself with the computer-based exam.
6. Gain Relevant Experience
Most states require 1–2 years of experience under a licensed CPA for licensure.
Action:
Seek internships or part-time roles in accounting firms or finance departments. Try to work under a CPA if possible.
7. Keep Your Documents Organized
You’ll need transcripts and other documents when you apply.
Action:
Start a CPA Exam folder, either digital or physical, with:
Course syllabi
Transcripts
State Board contact info
Study resources
Each state has its own rules, but generally, you’ll need 150 semester hours of education. A bachelor’s degree usually covers 120 hours.
You'll need a specific number of accounting and business courses.
Think about ways to meet the 150-hour requirement if your undergraduate program doesn’t cover it, like a second major or graduate courses.
Action:
Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website for detailed requirements. NASBA is a good starting point.
2. Plan Your Final Year Carefully
Ensure you’re taking the necessary accounting courses, such as auditing, taxation, and advanced financial accounting. Also, consider courses that will help with your CPA exam.
Action:
Meet with your academic advisor to confirm you’re on track for 150 hours and taking CPA-related courses.
3. Decide When to Take the CPA Exam
Many students start the CPA Exam during their final semester or soon after graduation. Some states let you take the exam before completing all 150 hours if you’re nearly done.
Action:
Create a timeline for studying and taking each section, considering available windows and your personal schedule.
4. Find a CPA Review Course
There are many trusted providers, like Becker and Wiley. Many firms cover the cost of a review course once you get a job offer.
Action:
Research now to find a study style that works for you. Some courses offer student discounts or early access.
5. Understand the Exam Format
Visit the AICPA website to review sample questions and testing procedures. Practice is key.
Action:
Try some practice questions and familiarize yourself with the computer-based exam.
6. Gain Relevant Experience
Most states require 1–2 years of experience under a licensed CPA for licensure.
Action:
Seek internships or part-time roles in accounting firms or finance departments. Try to work under a CPA if possible.
7. Keep Your Documents Organized
You’ll need transcripts and other documents when you apply.
Action:
Start a CPA Exam folder, either digital or physical, with:
Course syllabi
Transcripts
State Board contact info
Study resources
Updated
Richmond’s Answer
Hi Shay! It's fantastic that you're thinking ahead about the CPA Exam—early planning can really set you up for success. Here are some steps you can take now as a rising senior to stay informed and well-prepared:
1. Understand the CPA Exam Requirements
Each state has different eligibility criteria, but in general:
You’ll need 150 semester hours of college credit (often more than a standard bachelor’s degree). Some states allow you to sit for the exam with 120 hours if you're close to graduation—check your state board's rules via NASBA.
2. Plan Your Coursework Strategically
Make sure your classes align with CPA requirements:
Focus on accounting, auditing, business law, finance, and ethics. Consider adding a minor or master’s degree if you need to meet the 150-hour requirement.
3. Get Relevant Experience
Look for internships or part-time roles in accounting. Big 4 accounting firms and any good accounting firm are a great way to start. Ask professionals about their CPA journey—it’s a great way to get practical tips.
You're already on the right track by asking the right questions. Keep learning, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors or mentors for guidance. You've got this!
1. Understand the CPA Exam Requirements
Each state has different eligibility criteria, but in general:
You’ll need 150 semester hours of college credit (often more than a standard bachelor’s degree). Some states allow you to sit for the exam with 120 hours if you're close to graduation—check your state board's rules via NASBA.
2. Plan Your Coursework Strategically
Make sure your classes align with CPA requirements:
Focus on accounting, auditing, business law, finance, and ethics. Consider adding a minor or master’s degree if you need to meet the 150-hour requirement.
3. Get Relevant Experience
Look for internships or part-time roles in accounting. Big 4 accounting firms and any good accounting firm are a great way to start. Ask professionals about their CPA journey—it’s a great way to get practical tips.
You're already on the right track by asking the right questions. Keep learning, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your professors or mentors for guidance. You've got this!
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Shay