CPA Exam Cost: How Much it Costs to Become a CPA

You’ve put in the work to get your degree and build accounting experience, and now it’s time to aim for your CPA certification. But earning those three letters after your name comes with a price tag.

So, how much does it cost?

Beyond the tens of thousands you may have already spent on your education, the costs to become a licensed CPA can vary widely. From applying to taking the CPA exam to investing in review courses and paying licensing fees, the total amount depends on your state’s requirements and the resources you choose.

I’ll walk you through what to expect so you can plan your path to licensure without any surprises.

Key Takeaways

• CPA Costs Vary by State: Your state’s requirements determine much of what you’ll pay, from application fees to registration and licensing. Researching these costs upfront can help you budget wisely.
• Exam Section Fees Add Up: At an average of $344 per section and four sections total, expect exam fees to reach around $1,379. Additional expenses like travel and childcare can push this number higher.
• CPA Review Courses Are Essential: Investing in the best CPA study materials, priced from $849 to $5,999, can save you from costly retake fees and improve your chances of passing the CPA exam.
• Hidden Costs to Consider: Don’t overlook extras like transcript evaluations, retake fees, or lost income from time off work. Planning ahead for these can prevent unexpected financial stress.
• Licensure Maintenance Costs: Continuing education to keep your CPA license active costs $329–$799 annually, so it’s important to plan for this ongoing investment.

CPA Exam Application Costs

Before you can sit for the CPA exam, you’ll need to pay an initial application fee first. This one-time cost varies by state and typically falls between $50 and $300. If you’re taking the CPA exam outside the U.S., international fees can add up. Expect to pay up to $390 for domestic testing fees on top of the standard exam application fee and costs.

The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) is a valuable resource for accurate fee information and assistance with the application process.

Here’s what to do next:

• Check Your State’s Requirements: Application processes differ depending on your State Board of Accountancy.
• Use Online Tools: Many states let you apply through an online portal, but some require direct communication with the NASBA.

It’s a small first step toward earning your CPA designation, but it’s a crucial one!

Registration Fees

Registration fees for the CPA exam typically range from $100, though some states don’t charge this fee at all. Additionally, certain states may require a background check, which usually costs around $50. To determine the exact requirements and fees for your situation, it’s important to consult your State Board of Accountancy.

Education Evaluation Fees

If you completed your studies outside the U.S. or need transcript verification, you’ll likely need an education evaluation. The cost for this service generally falls between $90 and $150, varying by state and the agency conducting the review. This one-time fee ensures that your academic credentials meet the requirements for CPA licensure. Preparing for this expense early can help you avoid unnecessary delays and keep your path to becoming a CPA on schedule.

Exam Section Costs and Other Expenses

The CPA exam cost for each section averages around $344.80, with four exam sections in total—three core areas and one discipline. That puts your total exam fees close to $1,379.20 on average. Some states set their own fees, so you’ll definitely want to check with your board on this.

Here are some additional expenses to keep in mind:

• Travel Costs: You’ll likely need to travel to a Prometric testing center, which can add up with gas, flights, or hotel stays.
• Missed Work: Taking time off for travel and testing may mean lost wages.
• Other Obligations: If you’re juggling childcare or other responsibilities, those costs can pile on, too.

Tips to Save

You can manage the costs of CPA exam preparation by exploring discounts on CPA review courses or bundled packages. Many providers also offer financing options, allowing you to spread the expense over time.

If you’re currently employed in the accounting field, it’s worth checking if your employer offers reimbursement programs for exam-related expenses. Taking these steps can make the financial burden more manageable while keeping your focus on successfully passing the CPA exam on your first try.

Retaking a Section

Didn’t pass a section of the CPA exam? Don’t worry—it happens to plenty of CPA candidates. But there are some extra costs to keep in mind if you need another shot.

What You’ll Pay

• Retake Fees: Depending on your state, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $200 for each section you retake.
• Re-Application Costs: Some states may charge a re-application fee before you can schedule again.

What You’ll Need

• Wait at least 24 hours before submitting a new application.
• Get a fresh Notice to Schedule (NTS) before rescheduling your exam.

Planning ahead and staying on top of deadlines can help you avoid delays and make your next attempt count!

Choosing the Right Study Program

One of the biggest mistakes that potential CPAs make is to try to cut costs by not investing in a CPA exam review course. While it might be tempting to only use your accounting knowledge and free CPA resources, a review course is one of the best ways to save money by avoiding costly retake fees.

These CPA review courses come with a variety of features, so choosing one that matches your learning style and budget is essential. Options range from basic packages to comprehensive programs that include extras like live sessions, video tutorials, and even personalized tutoring. For instance, some courses start at around $849 for a single section, while all-inclusive packages can go as high as $5,999.

Although the initial cost of a review course might seem high, it’s often worth it in the long run. Programs like Becker boast a 94% pass rate, which means you’re more likely to pass the CPA exam on your first try—saving you both time and money. Comparing different course options and features can help you find the one that gives you the best chance of success.

Next Steps After Passing the CPA

You’ve passed the CPA exam—congrats! But what comes next? Here’s what to expect.

Requirements Before Certification

• Work Experience: Most states require 1–2 years of relevant work experience under a licensed CPA. Some may have specific hour requirements.
• Ethics Exam: You might need to pass an ethics exam, which costs between $250 and $320 through the AICPA. Certain states have their own versions of this test.

Maintaining Your CPA License

Once you’re certified, you’ll need to maintain your CPA license through continuing education. Requirements vary, but many states mandate regular coursework to keep your skills sharp. Some states even offer free options through their boards of accountancy. Alternatively, you can invest in continuing education packages, which range from $329 to $799, depending on the features offered.

Earning your CPA certification doesn’t stop at passing the exam, but knowing what to expect can make the process much easier!

What’s the Total Cost to Become a CPA?

Becoming a CPA comes with a range of costs that can total anywhere from $3,500 to over $10,000, depending on your state and the choices you make.

Initial expenses include application fees (around $50–$300) and exam section fees (approximately $344 per section, totaling $1,379 on average). You’ll also need a CPA review course, which can range from $849 for basic access to $5,999 for comprehensive packages. Retake fees, state-specific licensing fees, and potential ethics exam costs (up to $320) add to the total.

Once certified, maintaining your license requires continuing education, which can cost $329–$799 annually.

Conclusion

Exam fees, study materials, and keeping your license current – it all adds up. But you don’t have to break the bank. Strategic planning, using employer reimbursement programs, and investing in a high-quality review course can help you manage these costs and maximize your chances of success.

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