How to Become a CPA: Tips and Steps

What makes becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) such a well-respected achievement? For many, it’s the recognition that CPAs represent the highest standard of competence and integrity in the accounting profession. CPAs are trusted advisors who help organizations and individuals make sound financial decisions in an increasingly complex economy.

A CPA is a licensed accounting professional who has met rigorous education, experience, and examination requirements. Beyond handling financial statements or taxes, CPAs often play strategic roles—guiding companies through audits, advising on regulatory compliance, and shaping long-term business strategies.

With strong job security, competitive salaries, and advancement opportunities into senior leadership, it’s no wonder so many aspiring accountants aim for CPA licensure. Explore the essential steps on how to become a CPA, from education and skills to certifications and career outlook.

What Does a CPA Do?

A CPA wears many hats, often serving as both a financial expert and a trusted advisor. Their work goes far beyond crunching numbers—it involves protecting individuals’ and organizations’ financial health.

Core responsibilities include:

• Auditing financial statements to ensure accuracy and transparency
• Preparing and filing tax documents for individuals and businesses
• Consulting on financial strategy, budgeting, and growth planning
• Ensuring compliance with complex federal, state, and industry regulations

Work environments include:

• Public accounting firms
• Corporations of all sizes
• Government agencies
• Nonprofit organizations

Steps to Become a CPA

Becoming a CPA requires outlining a combination of education, experience, and testing. While the process can be rigorous, the reward is a highly respected credential that opens doors to advanced career opportunities.

1. Earn the Right Education

Most states require at least 150 credit hours of college coursework. A bachelor’s degree in accounting (typically taking 120 hours) is the most common starting point, and many go on to a Master of Accounting to fulfill the remaining prerequisites. Coursework offers training in financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and business law, which are all critical foundations for CPA eligibility.

2. Gain Practical Experience

Hands-on work experience helps prepare for the CPA exam and future responsibilities. Many students complete internships at accounting firms, corporations, or government agencies. Entry-level roles like staff accountant or tax associate can also provide valuable exposure to accounting practices. State requirements vary, but most require one to two years of general accounting experience before applicants can sit for the CPA exam.

3. Pass the CPA Exam

The Uniform CPA Examination is the national standard for licensure. It consists of four four-hour sections, three core sections, and one discipline section that test takers choose. The three core sections are Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Taxation and Regulation (REG), and Financial Accounting and Reporting. The choices for the discipline question are Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP), Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR), and Information Systems and Control (ISC). Preparation is intensive, requiring both technical knowledge and disciplined study.

4. Fulfill State Licensure Requirements

Each state’s board of accountancy sets specific rules. Beyond passing the exam, most states require one to two years of supervised work experience under a licensed CPA. Some states also require passing an ethics examination. Continuing professional education (CPE) is also required to maintain licensure.

5. Develop Key Skills

To thrive as a CPA, technical knowledge must be paired with essential skills:

• Analytical thinking to interpret complex data
• Attention to detail for accuracy in reports and compliance
• Communication skills to explain financial concepts clearly
• Ethical decision-making to uphold trust and integrity

6. Commit to Lifelong Learning

CPAs are required to stay current with new tax laws, regulations, and accounting standards. Ongoing professional development ensures CPAs remain trusted advisors in a rapidly changing financial landscape.

Salary and Job Outlook

A significant advantage of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is the strong earning potential. CPAs earned a median annual salary of approximately $82,000 in May 2024, according to Payscale, with the top 10% making more than $132,000.

The job outlook is also promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that positions for accountants and auditors will increase 5% between 2024 to 2034, an average of approximately 124,200 openings each year. This demand for CPAs is fueled by the ongoing need for accurate financial reporting, evolving tax regulations, and an increasingly complex global economy. Businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies alike rely on CPAs to ensure financial transparency and compliance.

In addition to strong job security, CPAs enjoy opportunities for advancement. Many begin their careers as staff accountants or auditors, and later move into senior roles such as controllers, finance managers, or chief financial officers (CFOs). Others may specialize in areas like forensic accounting, risk management, or consulting, which expand their career possibilities even further.

For individuals seeking a stable career with excellent earning potential and room to grow, pursuing a CPA license remains among the most reliable pathways in today’s job market.

Take the Next Step Toward Becoming a CPA

Becoming a CPA is more than just earning a credential—it’s about opening the door to a career built on stability, growth, and impact. CPAs play a vital role in every sector of the economy, from ensuring compliance to advising on strategies that shape the financial health of organizations. With strong job security and competitive salaries, the CPA path is a smart choice for those who want to combine analytical skills with leadership potential.

The right education is the first step, and that’s where New England College’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting program makes a difference. Designed for working professionals, learning can happen online or in person, and provides the knowledge, technical skills, and preparation needed to sit for the CPA exam. With expert faculty, a comprehensive curriculum, and internship opportunities, NEC equips students to succeed in today’s dynamic accounting landscape.

NEC also offers an online bachelor’s degree in accounting for students who want maximum flexibility. 

If you’re ready to begin your CPA journey, explore NEC’s BS in Accounting today and embark on your future career.