How Much Does It Cost to Take the CPA Exam?

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) represents a significant career advancement for accounting professionals, opening doors to diverse opportunities and increased earning potential. Pursuing this credential, however, entails a financial commitment that extends beyond the examination itself. Understanding the various costs involved is an important first step for individuals considering this path. From initial application fees to comprehensive study materials and subsequent licensing expenses, the journey to CPA licensure requires careful financial planning. This article will explore the different categories of expenditures candidates typically encounter, providing insight into the investment required to achieve this professional designation.

Initial Application and Examination Fees

The initial steps toward becoming a CPA involve mandatory fees paid to regulatory bodies. These fees are typically directed to state boards of accountancy and to the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), which administers the Uniform CPA Examination. Candidates must first apply to their chosen jurisdiction to establish eligibility, a process that usually incurs a one-time application fee. This initial application fee generally falls within a range of $50 to $200, though some jurisdictions may have fees as high as $300. This payment covers the administrative costs of reviewing educational credentials and determining whether an applicant meets the specific academic requirements to sit for the exam.

Once deemed eligible, candidates then face examination fees for each of the four sections of the CPA Exam. These per-section fees are distinct from the initial application fee and are typically around $344.80 per section. This means the total cost for all four sections, if passed on the first attempt, would be approximately $1,379.20. Examination fees can vary slightly by jurisdiction, and some states may also charge a separate registration fee per section, which can range from $15 to $200. All these fees, once paid, are generally non-refundable, underscoring the importance of being prepared before scheduling exam sections. Payment for these examination fees is often processed through NASBA’s candidate gateway, particularly for states where NASBA handles the application process.

CPA Exam Review Course Costs

Preparing for the CPA Exam often represents the most substantial financial outlay for candidates. Review courses provide structured study materials and support, significantly increasing the likelihood of passing the examination. The cost of these courses varies widely depending on the provider and the comprehensiveness of the package chosen. On average, a full CPA exam review course can range from $1,000 to $4,000. Some premium, full-service packages can even exceed $5,000 or nearly $6,000.

These comprehensive review courses typically include a variety of learning tools designed to cater to different study preferences. Common components are video lectures, digital and physical textbooks, extensive question banks with thousands of multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations, and practice exams that mimic the actual exam environment. Many providers also offer flashcards, study planners, and access to academic support or even one-on-one tutoring. Some advanced courses incorporate adaptive learning technology that uses artificial intelligence to tailor study plans based on a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, aiming to optimize study time.

Different types of review options are available to suit various budgets and study needs. Beyond full-service courses, candidates might opt for supplemental materials, such as standalone question banks or individual section courses, which are generally less expensive. For example, some individual section courses might cost around $599. While investing in a review course is not a mandatory fee, it is widely considered a prudent investment given the complexity of the exam and the potential cost of retaking sections. Structured content and practice opportunities significantly improve a candidate’s chances of passing, potentially saving money in the long run by reducing the need for costly re-examinations.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Beyond the primary application, examination, and review course fees, candidates may encounter several other expenses during their CPA journey. One common additional cost arises if a candidate does not pass a section on the first attempt. Re-examination fees are incurred for each section that needs to be retaken, typically ranging from $50 to $200 per section. These fees are similar to the initial examination fees, making thorough preparation valuable to avoid repeated costs.

Rescheduling an exam appointment can also lead to fees, which vary based on the notice period given; for instance, a fee of $35 might apply for changes made 6-29 days in advance, increasing to $83.76 for shorter notice.

Many jurisdictions also require candidates to pass a professional ethics exam before licensure, even if it is taken after the main CPA Exam sections. The cost for this ethics exam, often the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) Professional Ethics course, typically ranges from $150 to $320. This is a separate requirement from the Uniform CPA Examination and varies in its administration and fee structure by state.

For candidates who might move or decide to pursue licensure in a different jurisdiction than where they took the exam, score transfer fees can apply. These fees are usually minimal, often around $25, to send official exam scores to a different state board of accountancy. While not a direct exam cost, it is a consideration for career mobility.

Finally, less frequent but still relevant costs include travel and accommodation expenses if the testing center is not locally accessible. Although testing centers are widespread, some candidates may need to travel, incurring costs for transportation, lodging, and potentially lost wages. Minor expenses for study supplies, such as calculators, notebooks, or other personal study aids, also contribute to the overall financial commitment. These miscellaneous costs, while small, can accumulate and should be factored into a comprehensive budget for the CPA licensure process.