Step-by-Step: CPA Application for International Students
A comprehensive walkthrough of the entire CPA application process from transcript evaluation to exam scheduling, specifically designed for international students.
Application Overview
The CPA application process for international students involves several critical steps that must be completed in the correct order. This guide will walk you through each phase to ensure a smooth application experience.
Step 1: Choose Your Target State
Your choice of state will determine your education requirements, experience prerequisites, and ongoing CPE obligations. Consider these factors:
- • Total credit hours needed
- • Accounting credit requirements
- • Business credit requirements
- • Upper-level course requirements
- • Years of experience required
- • Type of experience accepted
- • Supervision requirements
- • International experience acceptance
💡 Pro Tip
States like Alaska, Montana, and Maine often have more flexible requirements for international students. Consider these options if you're facing challenges with traditional choices.
Step 2: Credential Evaluation
Your international transcripts must be evaluated by an approved credential evaluation service. The choice of evaluator can significantly impact your eligibility.
Approved Evaluators
NACES
Most widely accepted
FICE
Course-by-course focus
State-Specific
Some states have preferences
Required Documents
- Official transcripts (sealed/attested)
- Degree certificates
- Course syllabi (if requested)
- English translations (certified)
Step 3: State Board Application
Once your credentials are evaluated, you'll submit your application to your chosen state board. Each state has its own application process and requirements.
Application Components
- • Completed application form
- • Application fee ($50-$200)
- • Credential evaluation report
- • Official transcripts
- • Background check
- • Character references
Processing Timeline
- • Initial review: 2-4 weeks
- • Additional documentation: 1-2 weeks
- • Final approval: 1-3 weeks
- • Total timeline: 4-9 weeks
Step 4: Exam Registration & Scheduling
After receiving your Notice to Schedule (NTS), you can register for exam sections and schedule your testing appointments.
International Testing Centers
The CPA exam is available at Prometric testing centers in several international locations:
Available Countries
- • Japan
- • South Korea
- • United Arab Emirates
- • United Kingdom
Additional Fees
- • International testing fee: $371.35
- • Per section fee: varies by state
- • Rescheduling fees may apply
Common Challenges & Solutions
Many international students find they're short on required credit hours after evaluation.
Solutions:
- • Take additional courses at U.S. institutions
- • Consider online programs from accredited schools
- • Look into CLEP exams for general education credits
Your courses may not align with U.S. accounting standards and practices.
Solutions:
- • Provide detailed course syllabi during evaluation
- • Take targeted courses in areas of deficiency
- • Consider states with more flexible requirements