The CPA designation is more than just a certificate; it’s a testament to an accountant’s commitment to the pprofession that showcases their ability to handle complex financial tasks with precision and integrity.
CPAs are entrusted with ensuring financial accuracy and compliance, making their role indispensable in various sectors, including public accounting, corporate finance, government and non-profit organizations.
Investing in your education is crucial, as the knowledge gained during this time forms the backbone of your future success in the CPA Exam and your career.
The CPA Exam is known for its rigor, testing candidates on a wide array of topics within accounting.
The exam is divided into four parts: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) and Regulation (REG). While participating in a CPA review course isn’t required, most accountants who want to sit for the CPA exam do sign up for reputable review courses from reliable providers with proven track records of preparing test takers. These courses include structured study materials, practice exams and additional support services.
Most people sitting for the CPA exam are working accountants, meaning they need to prepare for the exam while still holding down a nine-to-five job. If you’re pursuing your CPA, creating a study schedule that allows you to balance your work and personal life while allotting sufficient time to preparation is crucial.
The next step is to apply for the CPA Exam. Because CPAs are issued by individual states, you’ll need to make sure you’re taking the steps to qualify and apply for the Arizona-specific CPA exam. Arizona accountants who want to take the Uniform CPA Examination need to go to the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy website and apply.
Candidates must submit the necessary forms with the required fees, ensuring all their educational transcripts are sent to the board for verification.
If you’re interested in pursuing a CPA, you should visit the Arizona State Board of Accountancy website to learn about the many educational and work requirements. You can also read some of our past blogs on CPA requirements for more information.
Exam takers need to schedule through the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) website, choosing a date and location that suits their preparation level and personal schedule. If you are going to take the exam, be sure to familiarize yourself with the testing center's rules to ensure a smooth exam day experience.
Even after passing the CPA exam, accountants still need to gain extensive practical experience before they can receive their license. Like most states, Arizona requires accountants to gain 2,000 hours of work experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA before they can officially become licensed themselves.
The work experience phase is crucial, as it proves CPA test takers can apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. This work experience must be verified as well, so it’s important to keep a detailed record of work hours.
Once accountants have finished all the steps, they need to submit an application for licensure, accompanied by documentation of exam scores, education and work experience.
You can learn more about Arizona’s continuing professional education requirements on the Arizona State Board of Accountancy website.
The path to becoming a CPA is rigorous but can be immensely rewarding. The commitment and investment of time and money isn’t for everyone, and there are fulfilling accounting career paths that don’t require earning a CPA.
However, CPAs are vital for handling a variety of business consulting, tax preparation and accounting services. If your business requires the services of a Phoenix accountant who has put in the time and effort to earn and maintain a CPA license, call H&H Accounting Services at (480) 561-5805.
