CPA Exam & Licensing Requirements

Your Guide to the CPA Exam and CPA Licensure in Pennsylvania

CPA Exam

Graduate

Upon graduation, candidates must meet certain requirements to sit for the CPA Exam.


Prepare

Learn about the fees to take the CPA Exam and develop a plan. 

Apply

Candidates can apply for one, two, three, or all four parts at one time. All parts must be taken within six months of the application date.


Study

CPA Exam sections cover a number of subjects that candidates are expected to understand prior to the test. The four parts consist of auditing and attestation, financial accounting and reporting, regulation, and business environment and concepts.


Schedule and Sit

After receiving a Notice to Schedule (NTS), it is advised to schedule a testing appointment as soon as possible.

Licensing

Pass Exam

To be eligible to apply for a CPA license in Pennsylvania, a candidate must pass all parts of the CPA Exam and fulfill a certain amount of hours of education, work experience, and CPE.


Work Experience

Candidates are required to complete specific hours of work experience through employment in government, industry, academia, or public practice.


Take CPE

CPA applicants must complete CPE within 24 months of application for an initial license. In some cases, passing the CPA Exam can fulfill the CPE requirements to apply for a license.


Apply

Applications for a Pennsylvania CPA license can be found on the State Board of Accountancy's website. Any questions about a CPA license application status should be directed to the State Board.