Blog
How to Apply for CPA After Completing CA?
If you’ve just completed your CA and are thinking about expanding your career globally, pursuing a CPA after completing CA could be a game-changer. Many Chartered Accountants wonder if the effort to earn a CPA in the U.S. is worth it. The answer is yes, especially if you aim for international opportunities, higher salaries, or specialized accounting roles. Let’s break down the steps and strategies in a simple, friendly way.
Why Consider CPA After CA?
As a CA, you already have a solid foundation in accounting, auditing, taxation, and finance. Adding CPA credentials can:
- Open doors to multinational companies
- Make you eligible for higher managerial positions
- Increase your earning potential
- Expand your professional network globally
Think of it as upgrading your toolkit. Your CA degree gives you credibility in India, while CPA provides recognition in the U.S. and other international markets.
Who Can Apply for CPA After Completing CA?
One of the best things about this path is that CAs can directly pursue CPA without worrying about the basic accounting background. Most U.S. state boards recognize Indian CAs for meeting educational requirements, although you’ll need to check each state’s rules. For example:
- Illinois and New York often accept Indian CAs for exam eligibility
- A few states may require additional credit hours in accounting or business
So, the first step is deciding the state in which you want to take the CPA exam.
Steps to Apply for CPA After Completing CA
Here’s a simplified roadmap to guide you:
1. Choose Your State Board
Each U.S. state has different eligibility criteria. Pick one that aligns with your qualifications and career goals.
2. Evaluate Your Credentials
Most state boards require a credential evaluation to verify your CA degree. Services like NASBA’s IQEX can help with this.
3. How Do You Apply for the CPA Exam?
Once your credentials are recognized:
- Submit your application to the chosen state board
- Pay the application and exam fees
- Wait for the eligibility approval
4. How Do You Schedule the Exam?
CPA exams are divided into four sections:
- Auditing & Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment & Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting & Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
You can schedule them at a Prometric test center or online where available.
You Can Also Read:
- CA Intermediate New Study Material
- CA Course Duration After 10th, 12th & Graduation
- Tips to Crack CA in First Attempt
- Time-Saving Calculator Tricks for CA Foundation Students
- How to become a CA?
- CA Foundation New Syllabus
- CA Inter New Syllabus
- ICAI CA New Scheme
5. How Should You Prepare?
Even as a CA, you’ll find some U.S.-specific topics unfamiliar, such as:
- U.S. tax laws
- GAAP differences
- Business regulations
Many CAs opt for CPA coaching or online prep courses to ensure smooth preparation.
6. Pass the Exam and Meet Experience Requirements
After clearing all four sections, you may need 1–2 years of relevant experience (depending on the state) to get licensed.
Tips to Make the Process Smoother
- Start with credential evaluation early to avoid delays
- Join CPA forums or groups to get insights from Indian CAs who’ve already done it
- Focus on one exam section at a time. Trying to juggle all four can be overwhelming
By following these steps, the process of pursuing CPA after completing CA becomes structured and achievable.
CA & CMA Online Classes: