In recent years, rapid development and invasion of technology is being visible in every professional knowledge sector and accounting domain is not an exception to this. The accounting profession is thus going to face so many challenges in near future and needs upskilling. Certified Public Accountant (CPA US) being a highly recognized global professional accounting credential, is also facing the threat of below at par with its existing syllabus and courseware. From here, a new initiative has been started currently known as the “CPA Evolution.” This initiative has been taken by The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) to combat the above-mentioned challenges which involve the revamping and restructuring the CPA Exam into a new CPA core-plus-discipline licensure model from 2024 onwards.
CPA Syllabus 2024
It has been proposed that from 2024, the entire CPA syllabus will be presented in a Core -Discipline model format. Among the all 4 previous sections, the BEC part will be replaced by 3 Discipline module from which the candidate can choose any one along with the three Core subjects, thus the exam remains in a 4-part format as before.
The Core Subjects in CPA 2024 Syllabus
1.AUD 2.FAR 3.REG
The Disciplines Subjects in CPA 2024 Syllabus
1.Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR) 2.Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP) 3.Information System and Controls (ISC).
Hence, it is obvious that as par the new 2024 CPA syllabus, the CPA exam will include three core exams (AUD, FAR and REG) and one discipline exam of choice (either BAR, ISC or TCP). It is to be noted that while the names of the core exams remain the same, the content of each is changing. Moreover, technology and data analytics are now become a core component spanning over all 6 subjects in the proposed core-discipline model of the CPA evolution.
Which Discipline of CPA 2024 Syllabus One should Select?
To start with, you should keep it in mind that all 3 disciplines have equal importance in your CPA career nothing more nothing less. First identify your interest and inclination to the topic. As for example, if you have interest in advisory services, financial statement analysis and reporting, technical accounting, and operation management etc., it is better to select BAR as your discipline subject.
Similarly, if you want to build your career in taxation and compliances, TCP should be your cup of tea.
On the other hand, if you have affinity towards computers, data management, information technology etc., it would be better to opt for ISC as your discipline subject for CPA exam 2024.
The CPA evolution has redesigned the CPA syllabus 2024 to develop future ready professional accountants who can take up the technological challenges with ease. It is expected that this revamping will make the CPA exam a little bit harder than its existing format. At the same time, it is also expected that CPA 2024 syllabus with its core-discipline model will equip you with advanced knowledge and skill in your CPA credential. No matter what discipline you opt, each one has importance of its own in the trending and changing accounting arena.
Earning certifications in finance and accounting is a big step toward improving your marketability and career advancement as a professional in this field.
Continuing education is an investment in time and money, of course, and your employer may help make the case for credentials. Robert Half research shows that a majority (72 percent) of CFOs interviewed say their company will cover all or some of the cost of obtaining a professional certification, and 76 percent said their organizations help in maintaining such certifications once they’re earned.
What are the best accounting certifications?
The answer depends on your career path, specialization plans, resources and eligibility. Of the numerous certifications, each has its own requirements with regard to education, work experience and examination. Each, too, has specific skills to be gained by attaining it and ways in which it would benefit your career and positioning as an expert in the field of accounting and finance.
Certified Public Accountant
Chartered Global Management Accountant
Certified Management Accountant
Chartered Financial Analyst
Certified Financial Services Auditor
Certified Internal Auditor
Certified Fraud Examiner
Certified Government Auditing Professional
Certified Information Systems Auditor
Certified Information Technology Professional
Let’s first take a closer look at three certifications geared to careers in corporate accounting.
Certified Public Accountant
The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license has a long reputation as the gold standard for accounting and finance roles in the United States. With this accounting certification, you validate your expertise in forensic accounting, tax, compliance, risk management and other skills that can lead to top CPA jobs.
Granted by: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
Estimated cost: $2,000 to $3,000
Prerequisites: Five years of higher education, a minimum number of continuing education credits in business and accounting (typically about 150), and verified relevant experience
Exam requirements: Four levels; can be taken in any order
Time to certification: Passing the CPA exam usually takes a year; exam and license requirements vary state by state, but most state boards require one year of accounting experience before you get the license.
Ongoing requirements: Requirements for continuing professional education (CPE) credits vary by state.
Who should get it: This designation is a versatile one, as CPAs work in public accounting, management accounting, governmental accounting, taxation, financial advisory, compliance and other roles. The CPA is highly valued throughout the accounting industry, and some companies require it for managerial jobs. If you know you want to make your career in accounting and have the time and money to invest, the CPA is a good credential to pursue.
To learn more about how to make the most of your accounting and finance career and find your next job, mail to info@upliftprofessionals.in.
Chartered Global Management Accountant
The Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) financial certification is a global designation for CPAs working in business and government. It’s an achievement that demonstrates your competency in management accounting skills and your expertise in developing strategy that connects all aspects of business.
Granted by: Both AICPA and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), two of the world’s leading accounting organizations
Estimated cost: $325 plus membership fee for AICPA; for CIMA, cost of designation is included in membership
Prerequisites: Any AICPA member is eligible, with an experience requirement of three years of relevant, work-based, practical management accounting experience. CIMA members are already qualified.
Exam requirements: One computerized case study taken on site, which asks for long-form, written answers that reflect management accounting competencies
Time to certification: Exams offered four times a year; results released within four weeks
Ongoing requirements: Membership in good standing
Who should get it: Finance and accounting professionals who want their experience and skills recognized throughout the world, in addition to research, tools and a global network
Certified Management Accountant
The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification is sponsored by the IMA (Institute of Management Accountants), and is recognized globally. Professionals who hold this accounting certification demonstrate mastery of critical accounting and financial management skills from a generalized, managerial and internal perspective.
Granted by: IMA
Estimated cost: $1,000 to $2,000
Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree and two consecutive years in financial management or management accounting
Exam requirements: Two levels, with a total exam time of eight hours
Time to certification: Typically one to two years
Ongoing requirements: 30 hours of CPE credits
Who should get it: Many accountants choose to get both the CPA and the CMA, as there is considerable overlap in the exam topics. The CMA is often considered a more practical application of the theoretical concepts tested in the CPA exams and is recommended for accountants in the corporate sector, particularly in large, multinational companies.Learn more about CMA US here: https://www.upliftprofessionals.in/CMA-USA.html
If you are considering a career as a financial analyst, or already working as one, you’ll want to look at the CPA license, as well as professional finance certifications.
Here are five certifications for careers in banking and financial services.
Chartered Financial Analyst
Chartered Finance Analyst (CFA) certification demonstrates your knowledge and competence regarding principles of portfolio management, investment analysis, economics, and professional and ethical standards.
Granted by: CFA Institute, a nonprofit based in the U.S.
Estimated cost: $2,500
Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree and four years of relevant experience
Exam requirements: Three levels, with a total exam time of 18 hours; you must pass one level before you move to the next
Time to certification: Can be completed in 18 months, but most people take more than two years
Ongoing requirements: A recommended 20 hours of CPE credits, with at least two hours of standards, regulatory and ethics education
Who should get it: This has become a must-have for security analysts and asset managers in the investment community. Finance professionals who are (or aim to become) equity analysts, fund managers or hedge fund managers will also find the CFA useful, as will anyone who hopes to reach the CFO or senior finance manager levels. If you are pursuing a career in audit, however, it won’t be particularly useful to you.
Certified Financial Services Auditor
The Institute of Internal Auditors’ Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA) is a specialty certification for audit professionals who have a minimum of two years of experience in financial services organizations, such as banks, holding and investment companies, insurance companies, credit agencies, or security and commodity services.
These certifications are geared to audit, fraud and risk managementcareers.
Certified Internal Auditor
The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is the only internationally accepted designation for the internal auditor career path, and people who hold this financial certification demonstrate competence in areas such as risk and control and information technology, as well as proficiency in working with internal staff and external clients.
Granted by: Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
Estimated cost: $1,500
Prerequisites: A bachelor’s degree and two years of internal audit experience (but a master’s degree can substitute for one year of experience)
Exam requirements: Three levels, with a total exam time of 6.5 hours
Time to certification: Typically a year to 18 months
Ongoing requirements: CPE credits are required; the number depends on your work status
Who should get it: The CIA is really only useful to internal auditors, with particular importance for those who would like to become managers or chief audit executives.
Available to members of the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) is beneficial for finance professionals focused on anti-fraud endeavors across private and public agencies. Passing the CFE exam demonstrates expertise in the four main areas of fraud examination: Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes, Law, Investigation, and Fraud Prevention and Deterrence.
Applicants for the CFE exam need to submit documentation of their education and work experience, along with three professional recommendations.
Certified Government Auditing Professional
The Institute of Internal Auditors offers the Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP) for audit practitioners in the public sector. It demonstrates skill in the unique requirements of government auditing. To qualify for the exam, auditors must have two years of experience in government auditing.
Here are two certifications for accountants with information technology careers.
Certified Information Systems Auditor
Accountants holding a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification can show they have a proficiency in information systems control, security and auditing.
Granted by: ISACA (previously known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association)
Estimated cost: $450 for members; $650 for nonmembers
Prerequisites: No experience is required to take the exam
Exam requirements: 150 questions; four hours, on site at locations worldwide
Time to certification: A minimum of five years of professional information systems auditing, control or security work experience is required for certification, with some substitutions possible
Ongoing requirements: Maintenance fees and CPE hours
Who should get it: Information systems audit, control and security professionals who desire global recognition
Certified Information Technology Professional
Offered by the AICPA, the Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) is a specialty credential for CPAs who want to demonstrate technology skills that can help a company span the gap between business concerns and technical consideration. Aside from passing the CITP exam, additional requirements include having a minimum of 1,000 hours of business experience and 75 hours of continuing education in information management and technology assurance within the five years preceding application for the CITP.
Certifications for specific roles
Accounting education, from associate’s, bachelor’s and graduate degrees to certifications, is valuable not only for moving your career forward but also for expanding your skills and expertise to become a more well-rounded professional.
It can also help you become a more desirable job candidate or employee, one who can command a higher salary. According to the Robert Half Salary Guide for Accounting and Finance Professionals, specialized certifications can put you at the higher end of the compensation tables.
What are the most highly sought accounting jobs and the credentials that would boost your resume if you were aspiring to them? Here’s an alphabetical list of a few:
Accounts receivable/accounts payable — Most accounts receivable/accounts payable professionals hone their skills with on-the-job experience. But an accounts receivable or accounts payable certification can make you a more desirable applicant or move you up the job ranks. AR professionals might look into Accredited Receivables Manager (ARM) or Accredited Receivables Specialists (ARS) certifications. AP professionals might consider the Accredited Payables Manager (APM) and Accredited Payables Specialist (APS) credentials.
Auditors — To reach higher-level auditing positions, you’ll want to consider a Master of Business Administration (MBA), as well as a CPA or CIA. IT auditors should look into the CISA, rather than the CIA.
Business and business systems analysts — Business analysts and business systems analysts can increase their marketability by acquiring an MBA. If you want to go a step further, you can sit for the Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) or Certification of Competency in Business Analysis (CCBA).
Compliance professionals — The options for compliance certifications vary, depending on your industry and specialization, and they are almost as numerous as regulatory mandates. Options include the Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP), Certified Compliance and Regulatory Professional (CCRP), Certified Regulatory and Compliance Professional (CRCP) and Investment Adviser Compliance Certification Program (IACCP).
Controllers — If you’re a controller on the job market, an MBA will distinguish you from other candidates, especially if it’s accompanied by a CPA or CMA credential. It’s important to note that most employers prefer the CPA, making it one of the most in-demand certifications.
Cost accountants, staff accountants, senior accountants — You can propel yourself upward in these accounting jobs by obtaining a CPA or CMA. Employers prefer the CPA, and if you’re looking to hit senior or management levels, an MBA can help you get there.
Financial analysts — To make the preferred candidate list as a financial analyst, you’ll need a CPA or an MBA. Having both is even better.
Payroll professionals — Looking to land your dream payroll job? The Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation can help you make it to supervisory roles.
Have you seen enough acronyms for one article? Here’s another: The AICPA’s Certified in Entity and Intangible Valuations™ (CEIV™) credential is for CPAs and finance professionals to demonstrate a commitment to enhancing audit quality, consistency and transparency in fair value measurements for public company financial reporting purposes in the U.S.
When considering what accountant certifications to pursue, carefully study how each might help advance your career. Your choice may be swayed, for instance, by whether you work in private vs. public accounting. The niche that is your company’s focus might also dictate your direction as well as your own career aspirations.
Do you have the certifications needed to set yourself apart from other candidates and command a higher salary? If not, there’s no time like the present to show employers you mean business and increase your career opportunities by investing in professional development.
ChatGPT and similar AI technologies have the potential to impact the jobs of finance professionals in various ways. Here are a few potential influences:
1. Automation of Routine Tasks: AI-powered systems can automate repetitive and rule-based tasks, such as data entry, basic financial analysis, and report generation. This could free up time for finance professionals to focus on more complex and strategic activities.
2. Enhanced Data Analysis: AI can assist finance professionals in analyzing large volumes of financial data quickly and accurately. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, AI systems can identify patterns, detect anomalies, and generate insights that aid in decision-making.
3. Improved Efficiency and Productivity: AI technologies can streamline processes, reduce manual errors, and enhance efficiency in financial operations. This can lead to improved productivity for finance professionals, allowing them to accomplish more in less time.
4. Support for Decision-Making: AI systems can provide real-time financial information, predictive analytics, and scenario analysis to support finance professionals in making informed decisions. These technologies can enhance the accuracy and speed of financial forecasting and planning.
5. Compliance and Risk Management: AI can help finance professionals in monitoring compliance with financial regulations, identifying potential risks, and implementing risk management strategies. AI-powered systems can analyze vast amounts of data to detect fraud, mitigate risks, and ensure regulatory compliance.
6. Shifting Skill Requirements: The rise of AI in the finance industry may lead to a shift in the required skill set for finance professionals. While technical and analytical skills will remain crucial, there will be an increasing demand for skills such as data interpretation, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration to work effectively with AI technologies.
It’s important to note that while AI technologies can automate certain tasks and enhance efficiency, they are not expected to replace finance professionals entirely. The human element, such as critical thinking, professional judgement, and ethical decision-making, remains essential in finance roles.
Finance professionals can adapt to these changes by staying updated with emerging technologies, continuously upskilling themselves, and focusing on developing expertise in areas that complement AI capabilities. Programmes like the US CMA or CPA are enough to make a finance guy stand above the influence of AI. This proactive approach can help finance professionals leverage AI as a tool to augment their work and create new opportunities within the finance industry.
When we talk about the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential, we often discuss the repute and potential of this coveted accounting certification. We also know about the pattern and syllabus of this exam and licensing procedures obviously if we are serious about the CPA title. But, are we aware of the CPA Evolution initiative? Are we aware that the Unified CPA Exam is changing significantly in January 2024? Before jumping in to the bandwagon, it is important to know about this initiative and the upcoming changes to the CPA Exam to fully understand how it might impact the sojourn to CPA licensure. The question often comes to mind whether it is applicable to the current CPA pursuant or not? The answer to this stands as if you pass and retain credit for all four CPA Exam sections by December 31, 2023, the changes to the CPA Exam will NOT impact your journey. If you will still be working your way through the CPA Exam in January 2024 and beyond then the information about the CPA Evolution-aligned CPA Exam (the 2024 CPA Exam) and transition policy are most important to understand.
The Present CPA Exam Areas – the 4 Core Sections
The 4 Sections which a CPA aspirant has to clear through separate exams for each section is mentioned below.
Metamorphosis: The Proposed Forthcoming Areas of CPA Exam
According to the proposed initiative, the following structural plan for the CPA exam will be implemented from January, 2023.
The new CPA licensure and CPA Exam model is a Core + Discipline model. In this model, there are 3 core areas involve accounting, auditing, and tax that are mandatory to complete by all candidates. Furthermore, each candidate must opt for a Discipline section for demonstration of greater skills and knowledge. Technology knowledge and skills will be tested in all sections, as it pertains to each section. Irrespective of a candidate’s optional discipline, this model leads to a full CPA license, with rights and privileges consistent with any other CPA. The Discipline section selected for testing does not mean the CPA is limited to that practice area. The new Disciplines reflect three pillars of the CPA profession as mentioned below.
Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
CPA Evolution: The Transition Policy for Each Section
The transition policy was recommended to the Boards of Accountancy by the NASBA CBT Administration Committee which states that Candidates who have credit for AUD, FAR or REG on the current CPA Exam will not need to take the corresponding new core section of AUD, FAR or REG on the 2024 CPA Exam. Candidates who have credit for BEC on the current CPA Exam will not need to take any of the three discipline sections. If, however, a candidate loses credit for AUD, FAR or REG after December 31, 2023, they then must take the corresponding new Core section of AUD, FAR or REG. A candidate who loses credit for BEC after December 31, 2023, must select one of the three Discipline sections to be tested. It is important to note that none of the sections of the current CPA Exam will be available for testing after December 31, 2023. There is a hard cutover from the current CPA Exam sections to the 2024 CPA Exam sections on the January 2024 launch.
Break-up of the New CPA Evolution Exam Design
The forthcoming changes in the new CPA exam pattern is depicted below for convenience. The duration is fixed while the number of MCQs and Task Based simulations(TBS) vary.
Key Facts on CPA Evolution Exam Pattern
The important points to remember about the changing pattern and implications are mentioned below.
The Credit Extension of New CPA Evolution Exam
CPA Evolution Exam Section wise Changes
There are additions/modifications of contents in the new CPA exam sections which one must get accustomed to before starting the CPA journey in the coming year. Salient features of the changes are depicted below.
Some Other Changes for Newly Revolutionized CPA
CPA Evolution Dates to Remember
Summary
The amalgamation of new interdisciplinary domains in this CPA evolution will make a CPA more compatible in the new age financial arena. It has never been a more exciting time to pursue the CPA license. The role of today’s CPA has evolved, and newly licensed CPAs are taking on increased responsibilities that were traditionally assigned to more experienced staff. Becoming a CPA means you will need greater skill sets and competencies, and a greater knowledge of emerging technologies. That is why the CPA Evolution initiative is underway. It is a joint effort of the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Certified Public Accountant, USA (CPA US) is one of the most coveted and sought after courses in accounting and finance in a global perspective. For a budding accountant or a finance professional, CPA helps to boost the career in a more colorful manner. It has two parts: CPA exam and CPA license. While passing the CPA US exam can help one to get a job the CPA license gives the right to practice independently. Being an US driven international course, it often raises the question whether a non-US rather than an Indian student can get access to pursue the CPA US course from their own region or not. Answer to this question is highly affirmative. However, Indian candidates must follow the guided path to achieve the CPA US credential they dream of. Let us discuss.
Check your academic eligibility first
Make sure you have 120 credit points in the commerce stream. In the Indian graduation system of 3 years, 30 points are allocated for each year. Thus, a B. Com got 90 points. To make it eligible, you need to have either a post-graduation or MBA or a member of the ICAI/ICWA.
There is an exception. A 3-year B. Com graduate can obtain the required 120 points, if he or she obtains a First class/division from a NAAC ‘A’ accredited university.
It has to be noted that the US federal structure has 55 states having their own CPA board and criteria. Although the majority of the states follow these 120 credit norms, there are certain states which require 150 points instead. The same 150 credit norms are universally required to get a CPA US license.
The two CPA Bodies who govern the CPA US certificate
AICPA-The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) conducts the CPA US examination.
NASBA-The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) is the highest body of all state boards which guides the administrative pathway by different state boards in the CPA US journey.
How to Apply for CPA US?
Apply for transcripts from your respective university.
Send the transcripts to NASBA or any other specified agency for evaluation.
Upon successful evaluation, the candidate will receive the written confirmation of eligibility for the US CPA exam.
Select your state board jurisdiction that suits you.
The CPA US Exam Procedure
The 4-part exam of 4 hours each is online through prometric centers located in various Indian cities including the metros. After paying the exam fee and acceptance of application, the candidate will receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS) which is required to book the exam slot in the prometric. The 4 papers Of US CPA exam are as follows:
Auditing and attestation (AUD)
Businesses environment and concepts (BEC)
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
Regulation (REG).
The pattern of the examination is divided into Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ), Task-Based Simulations (TBS) and one Written Component (WC). It is noteworthy that all four papers must be completed within a time period of 18 months.
Licensing of CPA
The requirements for CPA US licensing vary across the US states. However, having a 150 credit score is mandatory for most of the state bodies. In order to obtain the US CPA license, a candidate must fulfil the following:
Clearing of AICPA Ethics exam
Having the required work experience
By paying the licensing fees.
ASPIRING CPA WITHOUT SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN): IS THERE A WAY Out?
International CPA exam candidates often need to overcome several obstacles in order to get qualified for the exam. One such obstacle is the social security number (SSN). Rest assured that, in most cases, you can still sit for the CPA exam without the SSN.
What is Social Security Number?
A social security number is a 9-digit number issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary workers in order to track these individual for social security purposes. Regulated industries such as the CPA often require their licensees to submit the SSN to facilitate monitoring.
What about the Indian Students?
The AICPA has a helpful table showing the CPA exam requirements by state. Although almost all states ask for the social security number in the application form, a considerable number of them give special waivers to international CPA exam candidates or those who do not have the SSN, such as H4 visa holders.These candidates can submit an affidavit (as in Montana), or write a letter to the state board to explain the situation (as in Colorado). You can send a quick email to the respective state boards for clarification.
List of States which don’t require SSN
Alaska, Guam, Maine, Illinois, Michigan, Montana, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Wisconsin.
Some Flexible States suitable for Indian Students
Illinois — Standard Exam Rules but Flexible Experience Requirement
Virginia: May Accept BCOM + CA; Your Supervisor/Verifier doesn’t Need to be a CPA
Guam: 150 Credit Hours + No Experience Needed if You Don’t Mind the Inactive License
Alaska: Can Sit Before Getting 120 Credit Hours
Washington: Experience can be Verified by Someone other than Your Boss
CPA Exam Cost:
The overall cost for an Indian student to pursue US CPA stands around 3.5-4 lakhs in average for the entire procedure including the administrative costs. In India, a candidate giving an examination of US CPA is required to spend approximately INR 2,00,000 without a training fee.
Scope of CPA US
The most preferred areas of US CPAs are auditing and taxation which are considered best and financially rewarding in both Indian and international context. A CPA US can work in various fields ranging from accounting, auditing, US taxation, consulting, etc. The average pay scale of a US CPA in India is 7 lacs approx. which increases with experience and type of employers. Apart from various Indian based MNCs, Big 4 companies like KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, EY, etc. have many US clients that require US CPA candidates for auditing, taxation purposes. In addition, Popular US-based companies like Apple, Amazon, Capgemini, Cognizant, etc. require US CPA candidates for US taxation, auditing etc.
Summary
CPA US is a very uplifting credential in the career growth of a finance guy. It is highly respected and recognized in the fraternity, and thus is not a soft cake to cut. No doubt, It helps in career development, gives career security, job satisfaction and various monetary benefits, but to achieve that, you need proper dedication and a mind set. Selecting the right jurisdiction/state board is of immense value. The SSN is typically not the bottleneck in the CPA exam qualification process. Candidates should instead look closely at the education and experience requirement first. but not the least, selecting a high-quality student friendly training institute like Uplift Prohelps a lot to achieve your dream CPA US credential at first attempt.
