US CPA Course Details: Eligibility, Fees, Duration & Exam Structure (2025 Guide)
It's no longer an American dream to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA); it's now a worldwide career passport. Regardless of where you are in India, UAE, Philippines, or Canada, the US CPA Course provides access to the world's highest-paying finance and accounting jobs.
The question is, however, what does it take to pass the CPA exam and become a CPA in 2025.
This blog provides you with all the information you need to know about US CPA course details, eligibility, fees, duration, and exam structure to enable you to make an informed, strategic decision for your professional life.
The US Certified Public Accountant is considered to be the gold standard qualification for accountants. It is conducted by the AICPA (American Institute of CPAs) and State Boards of Accountancy licensed in the US.
With a CPA license, you can do:
International recognition. Increased pay. Career flexibility. That's the CPA advantage.
Here's an overview of CPA eligibility, which is slightly different by US state, but overall requirements include:
Pro Tip: You can apply for a NASBA international evaluation to assess if you meet the educational requirements.
The overall cost of becoming a CPA is the application, evaluation, and exam fees. Here's an approximate split:
| Fee Type | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Application & Evaluation Fee | $300 – $500 |
| CPA Exam Fee (4 sections) | $238.15 per section |
| Total Exam Fee | ~$952.60 |
| Ethics Exam (if required) | $150 – $250 |
| Total Cost (Approx.) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Additional expenses like CPA coaching, international credential evaluations (NIES), and travel for exams (if applicable) may apply.
You can complete the CPA exams in as little as 12 months, but you’re given 18 months from passing your first exam to clear the remaining three.
Ideal Timeline for Working Professionals:
With disciplined study plans and online CPE courses, fast-tracking your CPA is absolutely achievable.
The CPA Exam currently uses the CORE + DISCIPLINE model, revised in 2024. To pass the CPA exam, candidates must develop a strong understanding of each section. For a detailed walkthrough of timelines, study methods, and exam-day strategies, check out our step-by-step guide to CPA exam success.
Each section of the CPA exam is 4 hours, computer-delivered, and consists of:
Tip: Most foreign candidates prefer TCP or BAR, as these certifications are most suitable for audit, taxation, or finance careers.
CPAs are employed all over the world in positions like:
US average CPA salary: $70,000 – $120,000/year
International salary range: ₹10–30 LPA (India), AED 180k+ (UAE), PHP 1.5M+ (Philippines)
To better understand the opportunities and next steps after you pass the CPA exam, read our guide that covers all key aspects, from licensing to career advancement and practical tips.
Yes and more than ever!
The US CPA course in 2025 is convenient, world-respected, and now optimized for digital-era professionals under the discipline-based exam model.
As an auditor, finance analyst, or future CFO, the CPA is your passport to global career success.
Begin your CPA exam prep with industry-leading courses and live CPE webinars with leading instructors. You get access to
Not sure where to begin? Schedule your free consultation today and get expert guidance to kickstart your CPA exam success.
Yes, but most US states require 150 credit hours, so you may need an M.Com or an additional qualification like CA.
Four papers: 3 Core (AUD, FAR, REG) + 1 Discipline (BAR, TCP, ISC).
On average, around 50–55% per section.
Between $1,500 to $3,000, depending on your jurisdiction and evaluation agency.
CPA offers higher salaries in the US and globally. It’s faster to complete and highly valued in corporate roles.
Jason Dinesen (LPA, EA) is an entrepreneur, tax expert, and CPE Presenter. Dinesen brings over 15 years of experience helping individuals and businesses with accounting, bookkeeping, tax preparation, and business advisory in various industries. Dinesen is a regular CPE Presenter at MYCPE ONE. He has coached more than 200k+ accounting, taxes, and HR professionals on various topics of accounting, individual taxation, corporate taxation, and professional ethics. Jason has developed a strong following within the professional community for tax-related subjects. Dinesen is known for sharp tax interpretations, and he quickly brings his analysis of the latest tax updates and IRS guidance to the professional community.
