CPA Exam Costs and Fees

Embarking on the journey to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a significant step in advancing your accounting career. Understanding the associated CPA exam costs is crucial as you prepare for the CPA Exam. It’s not just about the registration fees; there are several layers to the financial investment you’ll make, which include application fees, examination fees, and the cost of preparation materials, which will equal your total CPA exam cost. These fees can vary widely depending on your jurisdiction and the resources you choose for exam preparation.

The total cost to take the CPA Exam typically includes application and administration fees in addition to the examination fees for each of the four sections. These expenses are influenced by several factors, such as the state board’s requirements and the type of review course you select. For a clear understanding of these costs, it is essential to review the specific fees for your jurisdiction, which can be found in the application materials provided by the state boards of accountancy.

Course materials and resources to prepare for the CPA Exam present another variable cost, with prices that can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Options for exam preparation vary from self-study courses, and live classes, to interactive online platforms. Selecting a review course that matches your learning style and budget is an important decision. Balancing cost with quality is key, as the right materials can be a determining factor in successfully passing the CPA Exam.

Overview of CPA Exam Costs

The cost of taking the CPA Exam is not contained within a single fee but is rather comprised of several parts, which combine to form your total investment in this certification process.

Application and Registration Fees
To initiate the CPA exam process, you must first pay an application fee which varies by jurisdiction. This is followed by an examination fee for each of the four parts of the CPA Exam, making the total exam fees dependent on the state board and the number of sections you are taking at once.

Breakdown of Fees:

• CPA Review Course
• Application Fees
• Examination Fees
• Registration Fees
• Ethics Exam Fees

Remember, while examining the total CPA exam cost which is around $4,000, it’s important to consider the value of the investment in your professional future. The CPA certification can pave the way to a prosperous career in accounting. Learn about the steps, costs, and fees for the different types of expenses you need to know about below.

Preparing for the CPA Exam

Before you start your journey toward becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), you need to understand the various expenses involved in preparing for the exam. Careful budgeting for review courses, study materials, and additional support can ensure a structured and successful study plan.

Cost of CPA Review Courses

CPA review courses are significant investments, but they are essential for effective exam prep. Depending on the provider, a CPA exam review course can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $4,000. These courses typically offer a comprehensive curriculum designed to align with the CPA exam blueprints.

• Average Cost: $1,000 – $4,000
• Includes: Practice questions, simulations, video lectures
• Optional Add-ons: Personal coaching, flashcards
• Textbooks: Often included with review courses

Additional Study Support

Some candidates choose to supplement their primary CPA review course with additional study support. This can include hiring a tutor, joining study groups, or purchasing supplementary accounting courses. While not essential, this support can help clarify complex topics and enhance your studying strategy.

• Tutoring: Hourly rates vary widely
• Study Groups: May be free or low cost if self-organized

Remember that every CPA candidate has unique needs, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to CPA exam prep. Your budget for preparation should reflect your individual study habits and learning preferences.

Initial Registration and Application Fees

When you’re preparing to take the CPA Exam, understanding the associated costs is critical. Initial registration and application fees are your first financial step toward earning your CPA designation.

Understanding the Fee Structure

The CPA Exam requires an investment that begins with two primary types of fees: the application fee and the registration fee. These are not interchangeable; the application fee is a standard charge you pay to the state board when submitting your paperwork for eligibility evaluation. On the other hand, registration fees are paid each time you sign up for one or more sections of the CPA Exam.

State Board Specific Fees

Each state board of accountancy may have its own set fee structure. Depending on your location, application fees can range from $50 to $300. It’s essential to check with your specific state board for exact amounts, as these fees are non-refundable and mandated for every candidate.

State Board Application Fee Notes Your State Board $X to $Y May vary based on residency Example State Board $Z Flat fee for all candidates

Payment of Fees to NASBA

Once your state board approves your eligibility, the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) issues a payment coupon for the CPA exam sections you wish to sit. For your first-time application, both an application fee and an examination fee will be required. Payment is rendered directly to NASBA, not the state boards.

Remember, timely payment of your fees guarantees the maintenance of your exam schedule and avoids unnecessary delays in your credentialing process.

Detailed Breakdown of CPA Examination Fees

Understanding the costs associated with the CPA exam is crucial for your financial planning. Below, you’ll find the specific fees you can expect when scheduling and taking the CPA exam.

Notice to Schedule (NTS) Costs

After your application is approved, you’ll receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS), which is only valid for a limited period. NTS costs can vary between jurisdictions but typically range from $50 to $250.

CPA Exam Section Fees

The CPA exam consists of four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). The examination fee for each section is generally around $208.40, though this can differ based on your jurisdiction. Below is a breakdown of potential section-wise fees:

• AUD (Auditing and Attestation): $208.40
• BEC (Business Environment and Concepts): $208.40
• FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting): $208.40
• REG (Regulation): $208.40

Additional Charges for Changes and Retakes

If you need to reschedule an exam section, you may incur additional fees, typically around $35 to $83. Should you need to retake a section, you’ll pay the examination fee again in addition to potential retake fees offered by the review provider you choose.

Additional Costs and Considerations

When preparing for the CPA exam, it’s important to factor in not only the examination fees but also the additional expenses entailed in the overall licensing process. Your financial planning should account for the costs associated with obtaining and maintaining a CPA license, which goes beyond passing the exam.

Licensing and Continuing Education

Once you pass the CPA exam, the next step is obtaining your CPA license. You’ll incur a licensing fee, which varies by state. After licensure, you must complete Continuing Professional Education (CPE) courses to keep your skills current and maintain your license. CPE costs can vary, depending on the courses you choose and the provider’s fees.

Ethics Exam and Additional Credentials

In many states, you are required to pass an ethics exam as a part of your licensure requirements. The CPA ethics exam fee can vary based on your state but is typically anywhere from $150-$300. The ethics exam is not required in all states. If you’re considering adding additional credentials to your professional portfolio, such as a CMA or CISA, anticipate further costs for examination and maintenance.

International Candidate Fees

If you’re an international candidate, you may face additional fees for credential evaluations and might need to travel for testing, which can include significant expenses for transportation and accommodation. An international credential evaluation is necessary to ensure your qualifications match the U.S. standards before you can sit for the exam.