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What is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)?

What is a CPA?


A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a trusted financial advisor who helps individuals and businesses plan and reach their financial goals. CPAs are licensed professionals who have met rigorous educational, examination, and experience requirements.


How to Become a CPA


Dreaming of becoming a CPA? Here’s how:


  • Education:

    • Obtain a bachelor's degree with required accounting and business credits (usually 150 credit hours - check with your state's Board of Accountancy).


  • Experience:

    • Gain relevant work experience under a licensed CPA.


  • Examination:

    • Pass the Uniform CPA Examination.


  • Licensing:

    • Obtain a CPA license from your state's Board of Accountancy.


The CPA Exam Sections


The CPA Exam has four sections. There are three core sections (AUD, FAR, & REG) and one discipline (BAR, ISC, & TCP). Exam takers must take the three core sections and have the ability to choose which discipline they would like to take.


CPA Exam Structure

  1. Core Sections:


    1. Auditing and Attestation (AUD):

      • Auditing procedures, standards, and ethics.


    2. Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR):

      • Financial accounting standards and principles.


    3. Regulation (REG):

      • Federal taxation, ethics, and business law.


  2. Discipline Sections (NEW IN 2024):


    1. Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR): 

      • Focuses on business analysis and reporting skills.


    2. Information Systems and Controls (ISC): 

      • Covers IT governance, cybersecurity, and systems and organization control engagements.


    3. Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP): 

      • Focuses on tax compliance and planning skills.


Are you thinking about pursuing the CPA Exam?

  • Yes

  • No

  • Maybe - I'd like more information


Conclusion


Becoming a CPA is a rewarding journey that opens doors to numerous career opportunities 💡💰. At Affordable Knowledge, we're here to support you every step of the way. Let us help you achieve your professional goals!




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