Becoming a certified public accountant (CPA) is a highly sought-after career path for those looking to excel in the field of accounting. However, many people believe that obtaining a college degree is a necessary requirement for becoming a CPA. What if we told you that it is possible to become a certified public accountant without a college degree? Yes, you read that right. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to become a certified public accountant without a college degree. Whether you are looking to save time and money or simply do not have access to a college education, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover the key steps to become a CPA without a college degree.

How to Become a Certified Public Accountant Without a College Degree

Becoming a certified public accountant (CPA) is a coveted career choice for many individuals. As a CPA, you will have the opportunity to work in various industries and earn a lucrative salary. However, one of the common misconceptions about becoming a CPA is that you need a college degree. While many people do choose to pursue a college education in accounting or a related field, it is possible to become a CPA without a degree. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to become a certified public accountant without a college degree.

Step 1: Research Your State’s Requirements

The first step towards becoming a CPA without a college degree is to research your state’s requirements. Each state has its own specific requirements for becoming a CPA. Some states may require a college degree, while others may have different education or experience requirements. It is essential to understand what your state requires so you can plan your path accordingly.

You can find information about your state’s requirements on the website of the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). The NASBA provides detailed information about CPA requirements for each state, including education, experience, and exam requirements.

Link: https://nasba.org/state-boards/

Step 2: Meet the Education Requirements

Even if your state does not require a college degree, you will still need to meet certain education requirements to become a CPA. Generally, you will need a minimum of 150 credit hours of education to sit for the CPA exam. This is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree plus an additional 30 credit hours of coursework.

If you do not have a college degree, you can fulfill these credit hour requirements through alternative methods such as taking courses at a community college, online courses, or through credit-by-exam programs. You may also consider taking advanced placement (AP) courses in high school to earn college credit and save time and money on your education.

Step 3: Gain Relevant Work Experience

In addition to meeting the education requirements, most states also require a certain amount of work experience to become a CPA. This experience should be in the field of accounting or a related field such as auditing, tax, or financial reporting. The amount of required experience varies by state but is typically between one to two years.

If you do not have a college degree, gaining relevant work experience can be challenging. However, there are ways to gain this experience without having a degree. You can consider internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in accounting firms or other organizations with accounting departments. This will not only help you meet the experience requirements but also provide valuable hands-on experience in the field.

Step 4: Prepare for the CPA Exam

The CPA exam is a rigorous and challenging exam that covers four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). To become a CPA, you must pass all four sections within an 18-month period.

To prepare for the exam, you can enroll in a CPA review course or use study materials from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). While taking a college-level accounting course is not necessary, it can be beneficial in preparing for the exam.

Step 5: Pass the CPA Exam

Once you are prepared, it is time to take the CPA exam. The exam is offered by the AICPA and is available in four testing windows throughout the year. You can schedule your exam through the NASBA website, and you will have to pay a fee for each section you take.

Link: https://nasba.org/exams/cpaexam/

The exam is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, and written communication tasks. You must achieve a minimum score of 75 on each section to pass the exam.

Step 6: Obtain Your CPA License

After passing the CPA exam, you are one step closer to becoming a certified public accountant. However, your journey does not end here. You will still need to obtain your CPA license from your state board of accountancy. To do so, you will need to complete an application, submit required documentation, and pay a licensing fee.

Once you have obtained your CPA license, you can start working as a CPA. However, the learning does not stop here. As a CPA, you will be required to complete continuing education courses to maintain your license and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the accounting field.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified public accountant without a college degree is challenging, but it is not impossible. With determination, hard work, and perseverance, you can achieve your goal of becoming a CPA. It is essential to research your state’s requirements, fulfill the education and experience requirements, and prepare adequately for the CPA exam. Remember, a college degree is not the only path to success, and with the right mindset and determination, you can make your dreams of becoming a CPA a reality.

Link: How to Become a CPA Without a Degree

Sources:

• National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) – https://nasba.org/state-boards/
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) – https://nasba.org/exams/cpaexam/
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or financial advice. Please consult your state board of accountancy and other relevant authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding becoming a CPA without a college degree.

In conclusion, while obtaining a college degree is the traditional route to becoming a certified public accountant, it is not the only path. By following the steps outlined in this article, including gaining practical experience and passing the CPA exam, it is possible to become a licensed CPA without a college degree. However, it should be noted that this process may take longer and require more determination and dedication. It is important to thoroughly research your state’s requirements and consider all options before embarking on this journey. With hard work, perseverance, and a passion for accounting, anyone can achieve their goal of becoming a certified public accountant, regardless of their educational background.