The CPA course fees vary depending on the country, review courses taken, and extra expenses such as licensing and exam fees. The CPA course fees are generally in the range of INR ₹2,50,000 to INR ₹5,00,000, covering application, examination, and registration fees. One needs to financially prepare for a successful CPA journey. A CPA certification is an investment in an accounting career that transcends borders.
What is CPA?
CPA is the universal professional accounting title that has recognition in all nations. It was offered by AICPA(American Institute of Certified Public Accountants). US CPA certification endorses an expert in accounting, auditing, tax, and other aspects of financial management.
The CPA designation is highly valued in various industries and creates top designations in multinational companies. The designation offers global career opportunities in countries such as the US, Canada, and India. CPAs can also handle entire complex exercises such as audits, taxation, and compliance. They ensure companies follow all regulations and make appropriate financial decisions. This expertise makes them essential to worldwide organizations, offering prestige and a great foundation for a career.
CPA Course Fees
The CPA course fees involve several costs that candidates need to plan for in advance. Indian students must budget for exam fees, application charges, study materials, and international testing expenses. These fees are essential to complete the exam process and gain official CPA recognition to practice professionally.
- Exam Fees: The CPA exam includes four sections, and each section has a fee. Indian students need to pay between ₹16,000 and ₹20,000 for one section. This means the total cost for all four sections is approximately ₹64,000 to ₹80,000. These fees are mandatory and cover the cost of appearing for the exam.
- Application Fees: Every student must apply through a U.S. state board to take the CPA exam. Application fees typically range between ₹8,000 to ₹12,000. The exact fee depends on the state board you choose.
- Course Material Costs: CPA preparation requires high-quality study materials or review courses. These courses generally cost between ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000.
- International Testing Fees: Indian students who take the CPA exam at an international test center must pay an additional fee. This fee is between ₹80,000 and ₹1,20,000. It is required for exams taken outside the U.S., such as at centers in the UAE.
- Evaluation Fees: Indian students must evaluate their academic credentials according to U.S. standards. The evaluation process costs between ₹8,000 and ₹24,000. It is a one-time payment and is mandatory to verify that your degree aligns with the eligibility criteria set by U.S. state boards.
- Licensing Fees: After clearing the CPA exam, you must apply for a CPA license. Licensing fees are between ₹4,000 and ₹40,000. This fee will ensure that you are officially recognized as a CPA and will be able to practice professionally.
| Expense | Cost (INR) | Description |
| Exam Fees | ₹16,000 – ₹20,000/section | ₹64,000 – ₹80,000 for all 4 sections. Mandatory. |
| Application Fees | ₹8,000 – ₹12,000 | Paid to U.S. State Board for registration. |
| Course Materials | ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 | Study materials for exam preparation. |
| International Testing | ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000 | The fee for taking the exam outside the U.S. |
| Evaluation Fees | ₹8,000 – ₹24,000 | To check if your degree meets U.S. standards. |
| Licensing Fees | ₹4,000 – ₹40,000 | For obtaining CPA certification after passing. |
Additional Costs in CPA
Pursuing a CPA involves additional costs beyond the exam fees. These include expenses for courses, mock tests, travel, and optional membership fees, all of which contribute to a successful CPA journey and better career opportunities.
- CPA Courses and Programs: Most candidates enroll in CPA courses, which cost between ₹1,00,000 and ₹2,00,000. The cost depends on the training institute and faculty quality. Institutes like Plutuse Education, and Preschool offer structured study materials, expert teaching, mock exams, and even placement assistance, ensuring you are well-prepared for the CPA journey.
- Mock Tests: Mock tests help you assess your readiness for the CPA exam. Official mock exams replicate the format and difficulty of the real test and typically cost ₹10,000 to ₹40,000. These are valuable for identifying weak areas and boosting confidence.
- Travel and Accommodation: If your exam center is in a different city, you need to account for travel, accommodation, and meal expenses. Booking early can help reduce costs. Careful planning ensures a hassle-free and cost-effective experience.
- Membership Fees: Membership fees are optional and apply only if you want to obtain licensure from a state. Paying these fees gives you access to networking opportunities, discounts on resources, and exclusive CPA-related events. Obtaining a license can enhance your career prospects significantly.
Factors Affecting CPA Course Fees
These factors can collectively influence the total cost of pursuing the CPA certification. Always be sure to research and compare multiple options to find a program that fits your needs and budget. The fees for the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) course can vary based on several factors. Some of the key factors that influence CPA course fees include:
Geographic Location: The country or region where you’re pursuing the course can significantly affect the fees. For example, CPA course fees in the U.S. might be different from those in other countries due to varying education systems and professional standards.
- Course Package: Review courses may come in different packages, such as basic self-study, live online classes, or in-person classes. The more comprehensive or interactive the package, the higher the fees. Some packages may include extra study materials, practice questions, and access to instructors, which can all add to the cost.
- Duration of the Course: The length of the program can also affect fees. Longer courses or those offering extended access to materials and support often have higher costs.
- Exam Fees: In addition to the cost of review courses, there are fees associated with taking the CPA exams themselves. These fees can vary depending on the jurisdiction in which you are applying to take the exams. The U.S. has state-based jurisdictions, and each may have different exam application and testing fees.
- Study Materials: Costs for books, practice exams, flashcards, and other study materials may be bundled into the course fees or be offered separately. High-quality study materials can add significantly to the total cost of the course.
- Format of the Course: Whether the course is online, in-person, or hybrid may affect the cost. Online courses tend to be more affordable due to the reduced overhead costs, while in-person courses may have additional costs for venue rentals and materials.
- Additional Resources: Some providers may include access to additional resources like mentorship, personalized coaching, or specialized study groups, all of which can increase the overall fees.
- Payment Plans and Discounts: Some institutions may offer discounts, promotional deals, or payment plans. The total fee might vary based on the payment options available to you.
How Can You Save Costs While Applying for CPA?
Saving costs while applying for the CPA exam and pursuing the certification is possible with careful planning and strategic decisions. Here are several ways to reduce expenses:
- Choose the Right Review Course: Compare providers, look for discounts, and consider budget-friendly options.
- Use Free or Low-Cost Study Materials: Take advantage of free online resources, forums, and practice exams.
- Pace Your Exams: Spread out the exams to save on costs and give yourself more study time.
- Look for Bundle Packages: Choose course bundles for a discount on study materials and practice exams.
- Employer Benefits: Check if your employer reimburses exam fees or study costs.
- Use Payment Plans: Pay for courses or exams in installments to reduce financial strain.
- Minimize Application Fees: Choose states with lower fees and register early to save.
- Utilize Libraries and Study Groups: Access free materials from libraries and join study groups to share resources.
- Apply for Scholarships: Look for financial aid or scholarships from organizations or schools.
- Avoid Retakes: Prepare thoroughly to avoid having to pay for retaking exams.
How to Apply for CPA?
Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the U.S. is a rewarding journey that opens doors to global opportunities. To help you navigate the process, here’s a step-by-step guide covering credential evaluation, application submission, exam scheduling, and preparation tips.
- Educational Evaluation: Obtain your credentials evaluated to U.S. standards. Send your transcript to an accredited evaluator. Choose an evaluator whom the state board has accredited in order not to delay.
- Application Submission: Send your application to the state board of accountancy of the chosen U.S. state. Be sure to recheck all your documents to prevent errors from it.
- Scheduling the Exam: Register for the CPA exam after receiving your Notice to Schedule (NTS). Use Prometric’s online portal to determine nearby test sites and select convenient dates that correspond to your training schedule.
- Preparation: Enroll in a CPA training course to provide a structured review plan. In addition, conduct many practice exams and review older exams to create confidence and bring up your grades.
CPA Course FAQs
What are the fees of the CPA courses in India?
The fees are between INR 2,50,000 to INR 5,00,000, which includes fees for application, exam, and material charges.
What is the CPA course syllabus?
Auditing, Financial Accounting, Business Environment & Regulation.
What are the eligibility criteria for the CPA?
Bachelor’s degree in accounting or commerce. 120–150 credit hours. Relevant work experience in some cases.
How long does it take to do the CPA course?
It will take 12–18 months, depending upon preparation and an exam schedule.
What is the salary of CPA in India?
The salary starts from INR 6-30 LPA with experience and position.
