US CPA Course Fees in India: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re considering a career in accounting or finance, you might have come across the term “CPA.” The US Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential is one of the most respected qualifications in the accounting world, opening doors to a wide range of opportunities globally, including in India. In this blog, we give you some insight about the CPA course, the CPA Exam Cost, and the overall CPA course fees. Read the Complete blog to add some Value.
What is a CPA? A Brief Overview
A CPA, or Certified Public Accountant, is a professional designation awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It’s similar to what Chartered Accountants (CAs) are in India but recognized globally, especially in the United States. CPAs are experts in accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial analysis. A CPA license signifies that you have the necessary education, experience, and ethical standards to practice as a public accountant in the United States and many other countries.
Why are CPAs Required in India?
The country’s economic growth has resulted in increased interactions with global markets. As a result, there is a need for experts who can understand Indian and international accounting standards. CPAs are essential to the operations of multinational audit firms/banks in India. It is due to this reason that their skills in US GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles), IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) as well as other worldwide accounting systems are of great value today.
The CPA Exam in India
Passing the CPA exam is an important component of the ultimate attainment of the CPA license in India. The examination comprises four important sections.
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
- You have to Choose Any One of them
- BAR – Business Analysis & Reporting
- ISC – Information Systems and Controls
- TCP – Tax Compliance and Planning
Each section has its level of difficulty making it imperative that an examination of the level of the subject matter is rather exhaustive. Of course, the good news is that you can now take the CPA examination within the borders of India. This was a recent development that has made it very favourable to students and professionals in India who are on a quest to pursue the CPA without having to travel to the US.
US CPA course fees
|
Cost component |
Estimated cost |
|
Application Fees |
150 USD approx. |
|
Evaluation Fees |
250 USD approx. |
| CPA Exam Fees (4 sections) |
1,000 USD approx. |
| International Testing Fees |
510 USD for each exam approx. |
| Study Material |
300 USD approx. |
Cost of CPA Certification
The cost of CPA including all other fees associated with being a CPA is extensive. There are other costs incurred by a CPA including:
1. CPA Application Fees: To apply to be a CPA, expect to spend approximately USD 150 which is the CPA application fee.
2. CPA Evaluation Fees: You have to get all your documents verified at the cost of approximately USD 250, which is a prerequisite to sitting for the examination.
3. CPA Exam Fees: The CPA exam cost is about USD 250 per section, making the total cost of the examinations approximately USD 1,000.
4. International Testing Fees: (for candidates giving their CPA exams outside the U.S.): Approximately USD 510 for each exam.
5. CPA Study Material: Good exam review courses and study materials usually cost between USD 1,000 and apart from USD 3,000 depending on the institution.
CPA Course Fees in India
In our country India, when all these expenditures are converted into their equivalent Indian currency, it is likely that the CPA Course Fees in India, covering the entire journey of becoming a CPA (from the first step to the last), will vary between 3,50,000 to 4,00,000 Rupees. This estimate covers examination costs, evaluation fees, international examination costs, textbooks, and other necessary purchases. And while this looks like a huge investment, all one needs to think about is the return on investment business (ROI). The job provides partners who can work with foreign companies and receive high salaries and career prospects for CPAs in India.
Scope of CPA in India
Although the scope of CPA in India is good and the trends are positive, the same cannot be said for all areas in the country. Once more, with the globalization of business and the emergence of multinational firms in India, the opportunity for CPAs is also bright. Working in finance, reporting, auditing, tax practising, or consulting – a CPA can work in all fields in which there is globalization of finances. US GAAP knowledge is also one reason that many Indian organizations prefer CPAs as there are US market financial securities regulations compliance issues.
Conclusion
Pursuing a US CPA certification is a significant commitment, both in terms of time and money. However, the benefits far outweigh the costs. The CPA credential not only enhances your knowledge and skills but also opens up a world of opportunities, both in India and abroad. With the right preparation and investment in US CPA Fees in India, you can secure a career that is both rewarding and internationally recognized.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of CPA ranges between 4 lakhs to 4.5 lakhs, including examination costs, evaluation fees, international examination costs, textbooks, and other necessary purchases, making it a comprehensive overview of US CPA course fees in India.
Generally, 12–18 months with 300–500 hours of study per section is necessary to pass all 4 exams.
The cost for the US CPA international exam ranges from $ 600 to $1,000, based on the number of sections and the relevant state board
The CPA costs more because of international exam fees, coaching, and NASBA processing costs
Below are the CPA hidden costs categories
- Extra Exam Fees:
Since most CPA candidates fail not all sections of the exam in one attempt, this will necessitate them to pay an extra retake fee for the sections they fail.
Every retake costs approximately $250 per section, so fees can add up very fast.
For instance, by failing two sections the candidate will be forced to pay an extra $500 in fees.
- International Candidate Credential Fees:
Candidates who apply from outside the United States have to get their education checked by their state board to make sure that they meet the standards. Like in most services, this examination incurs a fee. International candidates are charged an extra $150 – $200 by most states for this examination.
- Licensing and renewal fees:
After passing, you’ll still pay for your license application and renewal every year or two. This usually runs $100–$300 annually.
The total cost of the CPA exam is approximately 1,000 USD.
The cost to register for the CPA exam is 250 USD per section; the total cost of the examinations is approximately 1,000 USD.
The cost of CPA evaluation is approximately 250 to 410USD. which is a prerequisite to sitting for the examination.
Yes, you can finish your CPA in 1 year or 12 months. Generally, the average time to complete the US CPA is between 12 – 18 months
CPA is more practical-oriented, while CA has more focus on Indian tax laws and legislation. Both are tough in their own ways
