Who says change comes too late? As the saying goes, better late than never, and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) are proving it with the Experience, Learn & Earn (ELE) Program by transforming how CPA licensure works. For the first time, accounting professionals working full-time outside affiliated companies can enroll, making the journey to achieving the 150-credit-hour requirement more flexible and affordable than ever. With the CPA profession grappling with a shrinking pool of new candidates, the AICPA recognized the need for action. Better late than never! By expanding its reach to several industries, the ELE Program addresses the shortage of accounting professionals.
More Seats at the Table for Aspiring CPAs
The ELE Program initially catered to graduates employed by participating firms, but things have shifted. Now, graduates from various industries can join as long as they’re working full-time. This evolution broadens access for aspiring CPAs from all backgrounds, making the path to licensure more inclusive. Wendy Garvin, Executive VP at NASBA, explained, “The ELE Program’s expanded reach is a crucial step in providing more flexibility and access for CPA candidates.” As Mike Decker, VP at AICPA, put it: “We’re seeing incredible diversity in our program participants, which highlights the growing appeal and enduring relevance of the CPA credential.”
Affordable and Flexible CPA Credits
The ELE Program is ideal for accounting grads who have their bachelor’s degree but still need extra credits. Here’s what makes it unique:
Two Routes to Enroll: Whether you’re backed by a participating employer or going solo, there’s a place for you. Just know that independent enrollees might miss out on direct mentorship.
Budget-Friendly Education: Earn up to 30 credits through affordable online courses, designed to adapt to your work schedule.
Employer Support Perks: If you’re with an ELE-affiliated organization, expect flexible work hours, tuition assistance, or even a mentor to guide you through the CPA process.
Take the Leap Toward Success
The ELE Program provides a handpicked selection of over 25 courses, tailored to help participants build the skills needed for a thriving CPA career. Each course is crafted to address essential areas of expertise, ensuring candidates are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. But the growth doesn’t stop there—new courses and university partnerships are in the works, offering even more ways to customize and enhance your CPA journey.
Spring 2025 registration is open until January 1, 2025. Whether you're an accounting graduate looking to level up your career or an employer ready to invest in the next generation of CPAs, the ELE Program is your chance to make it happen. For your ongoing professional growth, check out MYCPE’s library of 7,000+ courses, covering the latest updates and key topics. With options designed to keep you ahead of the curve, we’re here to support your journey every step of the way.
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