Roadmap
How to become a CPA
Passing the CPA Exam and holding a CPA license are two different milestones. Here's the full path, in order.
Check your eligibility
Every US state board sets its own education and credit-hour requirements. Start by identifying which jurisdictions you're likely eligible for based on your degree.
Choose a jurisdiction (state board)
Your state board determines your requirements, fees, and — eventually — your license. Indian candidates often pick a state based on education requirements rather than residency, since the CPA Exam itself can be taken internationally.
Get your credentials evaluated
Most state boards require a foreign credential evaluation from a NACES-member agency to translate your Indian degree into US semester-hour equivalents.
Apply to your state board
Submit your application, transcripts, and evaluation report, along with the application/registration fees for the sections you intend to take.
Receive your Notice to Schedule (NTS)
Once approved, NASBA issues an NTS for each section — this is what lets you book an exam appointment. NTS validity windows vary, so schedule promptly.
Schedule your exam (India or the US)
Book your Prometric appointment. India has multiple testing cities, but international testing carries an additional administration fee on top of the standard exam fee.
Pass all four sections
Three Core sections (FAR, AUD, REG) and one Discipline (BAR, ISC, or TCP) — all within your state board's rolling credit window.
Meet experience and licensure requirements
Passing the exam and holding a CPA license are not the same thing. Most states also require a period of verified work experience, and some require an additional ethics exam, before you can be licensed.
This is a general outline. Exact requirements, fees, and NTS validity periods vary by state board and change over time — see the CPA for Indian Students guide for more detail, and always confirm current specifics with your state board before acting.