CPA Exam fees

Understanding CPA Exam Fees: A Complete Guide

CPA Exam fees can add up quickly, so it's essential to understand the various costs involved. In this guide, we’ll explore the main fees, international costs, additional fees for licensure, and the potential savings associated with strategic planning. We’ve also included fee conversions to INR for international candidates to help you budget efficiently.

Complete Summary of CPA Exam Fees

Here’s a breakdown of the total CPA Exam costs with INR conversions for international candidates:

• Total CPA Exam Cost (U.S.): $1,579.20 - $1,979.20 (₹130,400 - ₹163,500)
• Total CPA Exam Cost (International): $3,139.20 - $3,539.20 (₹259,200 - ₹292,800) .When applying internationally, be sure to review Top States for CPA Exam to find the best state board for your situation.

Details of each fee type are in the table below.

For more details on preparing for each part of the CPA process, check out our CPA Exam Syllabus guide.

Breakdown of CPA Exam Fees and Key Details

1. Application Fee
   • This one-time fee verifies eligibility to take the CPA Exam.
   • Costs vary by state, typically between $50 and $200 (₹4,100 - ₹16,500).
2. Evaluation Fee
   • A credential evaluation fee for international candidates or those with non-standard education.
   • $225.00 (₹18,506) as a one-time payment.
3. SBA Registration Fee
   • This fee covers registration with your State Board of Accountancy.
   • It averages around $170.00 (₹13,983) as a one-time charge.
4. NTS (Notice to Schedule) Application Fee
   • It is required when you receive authorization to take an exam.
   • $100 (₹8,200), applicable once per registration.
5. Examination Fee
   • NASBA’s recommended cost is $344.80 (₹28,400) per section, totaling $1,379.20 (₹113,900) for all four sections if passed on the first attempt.
6. International Testing Fee
   • Non-U.S. candidates pay an additional $390 (₹32,200) per section, totaling $1,560 (₹128,800) for all four sections.
7. Ethics Exam Fee
   • Most states require the AICPA’s ethics exam, which costs between $250 and $320 (₹ $20,600—₹ $26,400).
   • Verify with your state’s CPA board for specific requirements.
8. State Licensing Fee
   • After completing all CPA requirements, you’ll pay a licensing fee to your state.
   • This typically ranges from $50 to $200 (₹4,100 - ₹16,500).

For more on eligibility and state requirements, check out CPA Eligibility.

Additional Costs Associated with the CPA Exam

Apart from the main CPA Exam fees, candidates may incur several other costs, especially if they need to reschedule or retake a section:

• Retake Fees: Registration and examination fees must be paid for each attempt.
• Rescheduling Fees: Prometric charges for rescheduling within 30 days of your exam date.
  • More than 30 days: No fee.
  • 5-30 days: Small rescheduling fee.
  • Less than 5 days: Full rescheduling fee applies.

Tips for Saving on CPA Exam Fees

To manage CPA Exam fees efficiently, consider the following strategies:

1. Register for Each Section Separately: Only register when you’re fully prepared for each section, as re-registration costs can add up.
2. Consider a CPA Review Course: A CPA review course can help prevent the extra costs of retakes. Eduyush’s CPA Review Course is an excellent, affordable, and effective option with access till you pass.
3. Bundle Registration Fees Carefully: Some states allow candidates to pay for all four sections at once, but be cautious; if you don’t complete all sections within your Notice to Schedule period, you may need to pay again.

For more guidance, visit our guide on how to Become a CPA, which outlines the steps from exam registration to licensure.

Is a CPA Exam Review Course Worth the Cost?

While CPA review courses aren’t part of the base CPA Exam fees, Eduyush’s CPA review course featuring Surgent’s AI-powered technology is a budget-friendly and effective option worth considering. Priced under $500 (₹41,250), this course provides affordable and comprehensive prep, ideal for first-time success. Here’s what you can expect:

• Adaptive AI Technology: Surgent’s AI-driven features create a personalized study plan based on your strengths and knowledge gaps, optimizing your learning experience.
• Extensive Study Materials and Mock Exams: Access practice questions, simulated exams, and detailed explanations tailored to each CPA exam section.
• Customizable Quizzes and Real-Time Feedback: Build confidence with personalized quizzes and receive immediate feedback to guide your progress.
• Pass Guarantee with Access Until You Pass: With unlimited course access until you pass, you’re assured long-term support without added costs.

Eduyush’s CPA review course with Surgent’s AI technology helps prevent costly retakes, making it a smart investment for candidates focused on passing the CPA exam efficiently.

How the CPA Exam Review Course Can Save You Money

Investing in a CPA review course may seem like an additional cost, but it can save you money by reducing the need for retakes. A quality course provides:

• Structured Study Materials: Access to videos, textbooks, and simulated exams.
• Personalized Practice: Customizable quizzes and real-time feedback.
• Pass Guarantee: Many providers offer pass guarantees to ensure your investment is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions about CPA Exam Fees

Are all CPA Exam fees required upfront?

• No, you can pay each section’s fees as you register.

How much does it cost to retake a section?

• You’ll pay the section’s registration and examination fees again.

Do international candidates pay higher fees?

• Yes, an additional $390 (₹32,200) per section applies for international exams.

How long is my Notice to Schedule (NTS) valid?

• Typically 3-9 months, depending on your state. Schedule sections within this time.

What other costs might I incur for CPA licensure?

• Additional costs include the ethics exam, state licensing fees, and potentially a CPA review course.

By carefully understanding each fee and budgeting for all necessary costs, you can approach your CPA Exam journey with financial confidence. For more on choosing your specialization, visit our How to Choose Your CPA Discipline page to explore available career paths.