Introduction to US CPA

The US Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is considered one of the most respected accounting qualifications worldwide. Awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), it is the only license that allows professionals to provide accounting services to the public in the United States. Widely seen as a “crown jewel” in the accounting profession, the CPA designation offers global opportunities, thanks to the strength of the US economy and the global presence of American firms.

Why Choose CPA?

India already has its prestigious Chartered Accountancy (CA) program conducted by ICAI. So, you might wonder—why look beyond that, especially when the current trend is to “Go Local”?

The answer lies in career planning. Building a successful career takes years of focused effort, and making the right choice early can set you apart. Let’s take a quick look at what makes the CPA course appealing, especially for students in India:

• Recognition as an expert in the world’s most advanced accounting standards.

• Opportunities to work with global giants such as PepsiCo, Xerox, and Accenture.

• Only four exams to clear within 12 months to become a CPA!

• Increased chances of working in the USA or other countries.

Scope of the CPA Course

To understand CPA better, let’s break it down. The course requires you to clear just four exams:

1. Auditing and Attestation (AUD)

2. Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)

3. Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)

4. Regulation (REG)

Each exam includes multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, and written responses—ensuring a well-rounded assessment.

Students can choose the order of exams. However, all four sections must be completed within an 18-month window. Exams are available year-round in multiple testing windows, giving candidates flexibility to plan around their schedules.

Benefits of a CPA Qualification

With globalization and the growing presence of multinational corporations (MNCs) in India, there is a strong demand for professionals who understand foreign accounting standards. Big names like JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and Citigroup have already established a significant presence in India, creating more opportunities for CPAs.

Since nearly 25% of Fortune 500 companies are US-based, knowledge of US GAAP (similar to Ind AS) gives candidates a competitive edge. CPAs working in MNCs in India often earn 30–40% more than other accounting professionals.

Some career paths available to CPAs include:

• Assurance and Audit Services

• Foreign Accounting

• Consulting and Advisory

• Internal and External Auditing

• Tax and Financial Planning

Eligibility Criteria

To appear for the CPA exam and eventually obtain a CPA license, candidates must meet credit requirements:

• CPA Exam: 120 CPE credits

• CPA License: 150 CPE credits

On average, each year of college = 30 credits.

Here are a few combinations to check your eligibility:

• B.Com + 1-Year Diploma = 120 credits

• B.Com + CA Inter/ICWAI Inter/CS Executive = 120 credits

• B.Com + M.Com (2 years) = 150 credits

• B.Com + MBA = 150 credits

• B.Com + CA/ICWA/CS = 150 credits

Graduates from other streams such as BBA, BA, BCA, B.Tech are also eligible.

If your graduation totals only 90 credits (30 × 3 years), you can pursue a 1-year accounting diploma from a recognized university to earn the remaining 30 credits needed.

Conclusion

The US CPA designation is more than just a qualification—it is a global passport to career growth in accounting and finance. With only four exams to clear, flexible testing schedules, and high demand from multinational corporations, CPA offers an excellent opportunity for students and professionals in India to take their careers to the next level.

Whether your goal is to work with top global firms, earn a higher salary, or build an international career, CPA is a powerful step in the right direction.