State Boards
January 18, 2025
7 min read
Top 5 States for CPA Exam Eligibility (2025 Guide)
Which US states offer the easiest path to CPA eligibility for international students. Compare requirements, costs, and processing times.
Choosing the right state for your CPA application can make the difference between a smooth eligibility process and months of additional coursework. Here are the top 5 states we recommend for international students in 2025.
#1 New Hampshire
BEST CHOICE
Requirements:
- • 120 total credit hours
- • 24 accounting credits
- • 24 business credits
- • No ethics course required
Benefits:
- • Fast processing (2-4 weeks)
- • International-friendly
- • Reasonable fees ($200)
- • No residency requirement
#2 Guam
Requirements:
- • 120 total credit hours
- • 24 accounting credits
- • 24 business credits
- • Flexible on course specifics
Benefits:
- • Very flexible requirements
- • Good for unique degrees
- • Moderate fees ($150)
- • Helpful staff
#3 Alaska
Requirements:
- • 120 total credit hours
- • 24 accounting credits
- • 24 business credits
- • Ethics course required
Benefits:
- • Clear requirements
- • Good for CA/ACCA holders
- • Reasonable timeline
- • Accepts online courses
#4 Montana
Requirements:
- • 120 total credit hours
- • 24 accounting credits
- • 24 business credits
- • Specific course requirements
Benefits:
- • Detailed guidance provided
- • Fair evaluation process
- • Moderate fees
- • Good communication
#5 Maine
Requirements:
- • 120 total credit hours
- • 30 accounting credits
- • 24 business credits
- • Ethics course required
Benefits:
- • Thorough but fair
- • Good for strong backgrounds
- • Professional process
- • Clear communication
Not Sure Which State is Right for You?
Our experts can analyze your specific educational background and recommend the best state for your situation.