Guide to become a US CPA: Pass the CPA Exam in 2024

Guide to become a US CPA: Pass the CPA Exam in 2024

This is a comprehensive guide as to which an aspiring CPA candidate can effectively embark on their CPA journey with little to no hassle. To pass the CPA exam, candidates must thoroughly prepare for each exam section of the US CPA exam. While preparing for the CPA exam, candidates should understand the exam pattern and focus on the 4 sections: Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), Regulation (REG), and Auditing and Attestation (AUD). Utilizing a CPA review course can be immensely helpful, as it often includes practice exams with multiple-choice questions that mimic the exam content. A solid CPA review and consistent CPA study are essential for earning the CPA credential. Engaging with comprehensive review materials ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the BEC section and all other components of the exam.

Key Takeaways

  • Guide to become a US CPA

  • US CPA Exam 2024

  • How do Become a US CPA?

Introduction

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA), commonly known as CPA USA, is indeed a credential for expertise in the field of accounting offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). CPAs are "trusted financial advisors" who help people, businesses, and other organizations plan for and achieve their financial goals, according to the AICPA. CPAs can help with anything financial management, whether it's saving for a new home or setting up a business. Among the most satisfying experiences, you will have in your public accounting practice has now become a CPA. You develop a sense of satisfaction and triumph at having been able to set your mind to anything and conquer it. However, being one of the easiest exams is not its forte. Becoming a CPA can also make you financially independent and strategically strong. After achieving the position of a CPA you will see that all your struggle and hard work was worth the time and energy that you have spent.

What is a CPA license?

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) course is one of the most renowned accounting degrees in the world! CPA certifications are high in demand, as evidenced by their high pay. The CPA exam resembles India’s Chartered Accountant certification (CA). If you want to advance your career in accounting, the CPA course is your first option! The CPA course is a difficult examination that individuals must pass to become a CPA licensed in the US. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) conducts the exam, which covers accounting-related topics. Let’s give you an outline of the subjects that you are going to learn in detail:

Main Subjects: 

• Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
• Regulation (REG)
• Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) 

Optional Subjects:

 • Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)

• Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
• Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP) 

How to Become a US CPA?

When you attempt the CPA exam and become a CPA holder, each jurisdiction has its distinctive set of educational requirements. Some states automatically take a fraction of the exam before graduating from college, but most states mandate you to have a master's degree to take the tests. Nearly every single state, on the other extreme, requires you to acquire 150 required credit hours to take the CPA exam.

Applying for the CPA exam can get a little tricky, wherein your educational prerequisites must first be validated by your state committee. You will be able to formally apply for the exam once you have been permitted. Once your application is submitted and approved You will be issued a notice to schedule that will allow you to take a closer look at the process of the CPA exam. 

Studying beforehand for the CPA exam can give you the acknowledgment that you should have before sitting for the CPA exam. Impose a limit for yourself and start practicing and researching. To proceed further choose the right set of courses and attempt the sections respectively. 

Post completion of all four sections of the CPA exam, you will be asked to undergo a brief ethics exam sponsored by the AICPA. That's more of a questionnaire than a legitimate CPA exam. Once you’re done with signing up for this ethics exam you will then receive all the ethical textbook duties and obligations that you are required to go through when sitting in this exam.


Tips to Crack Cpa Exam

How to Crack the US CPA Exam in India!

It's now or never to pass the exam. The CPA exam is graded on a scale of one to ninety. To pass each section, candidates must have a CPA exam score of 75 or greater. To be listed there are four sections in particular when taking the CPA exam. Generally, people favor studying at each section for roughly 6 weeks. Once you are through with the first section you will then have 30 months in your hand to pass all four if you fail to do so you might have to re-attempt the CPA test again.

You must exemplify that you are a diligent, conscientious, and hardworking employee so that you can call yourself a CPA. Consider this endeavor a vetting workflow that you must undergo to enter the club. It's well worth the effort. You will be appreciated as competent after you possess your license, and avenues will open for you that you had never considered before. It'll be a difficult trip, but you won't be disappointed. It’s a long way to go!

Here is a complete guide on how to crack your 2024 CPA exams

• Avoid distractions
• Make sure that you have a flexible working time 
• Stick to your designated tasks 
• Have some motivation 
• Plan some ‘me time’
• Prioritize your health 
• Make a priority list 
• Find your sweet spot for productivity 
• Online CPA training should be considered
• Acquire a partner with a study plan 
• Take a week off before your exam days
• Find how or what can get you more productive
• Schedule room for amusement

Conclusion

To achieve a licensed CPA designation, candidates must pass the US CPA exam. The CPA exam includes several sections, such as the AUD section, and understanding the exam patterns is crucial since US CPA exam patterns can differ. Effective CPA exam prep is essential, and CPA exam tips can help students and professionals alike. US CPA course fees can be significant, but completing the US CPA course provides valuable US CPA job opportunities and offers a competitive CPA salary. For those studying for the CPA, it's important to be aware of exam scoring and exam patterns as they play a role in determining the overall CPA score.

To summarize, US CPA in India allows professionals to gain global recognition, and completing the US CPA course can significantly impact finance and accounting professionals by opening doors to higher earning potential and advanced career opportunities. Candidates need to prepare hard for the exams but now because of the extension of the exam time to 30 months candidates who are working simultaneously have some time to prepare and write the exam at their ease. CPAs can work in any domain in the accounting and finance field in the whole world. Choosing an institution like NorthStar Academy gives valuable support to the students to pass the exam on their first attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does it take to pass the CPA exam?

    Passing the CPA exam requires thorough preparation, including understanding the exam sections and patterns. Key tips include focusing on the exam syllabus, practicing with past questions, and developing a solid study plan. The exam consists of four sections, each with its own specific requirements.

  • Can Indian students take the CPA exam?

    Yes, Indian students can take the CPA exam through designated testing centres in India. Completing the US CPA course in India helps professionals prepare for and sit for the exam effectively.

  • What are the different sections of the CPA exam?

    The CPA exam includes several sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). Each section tests different aspects of accounting and business knowledge.

  • How does the CPA exam scoring work?

    CPA exam scoring is treated using a uniform scale across all sections. The scoring process evaluates performance based on correct answers and the complexity of the questions. Understanding the exam pattern and scoring system is crucial for effective preparation.

  • What should candidates expect on CPA exam day?

    On CPA exam day, candidates should arrive early, bring the required identification, and be prepared for a lengthy testing session. The test will start promptly, and it’s important to stay calm and focused throughout the exam.