Earning a CPA license is a serious investment—but it can pay off big time, with CPAs earning an average of $122,000 a year.
And trust me, I’ve been there:
While working toward my CPA, I quickly learned that the costs go well beyond the basic exam fees. From the CPA exam application fee to registration fees for each section and even rescheduling fees, the expenses can pile up.
So, let’s break down these costs so you know exactly what to expect—and why the investment is worth it in the long run.
Key Takeaways
- State-by-state CPA exam fees: Depending on the state, your total state-specific CPA exam costs could range from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Application fees: Most states charge an initial application fee, typically between $50 and $200.
- CPA exam rescheduling fees: If you need to reschedule a scheduled exam, you may face a fee of around $50 to $200.
- CPA licensing fees: After passing, you’ll still need to pay for your CPA license, which can be between $100 and $300.
CPA Exam Costs: Breaking it Down by Section
The CPA exam is made up of four main sections, and each section comes with its own examination fees. Here’s what you’ll need to budget for each:
- FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting)
- AUD (Auditing and Attestation)
- REG (Regulation)
- Discipline Section: Choose one specialization: Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR), Information Systems and Controls (ISC), or Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
The examination fee for each CPA exam section generally falls between $180 and $345, depending on the state. With four exam sections to complete, the total examination fees are roughly $720 to $1,380. Fees can vary based on where you take the exam, so be sure to check your specific state’s board of accountancy for exact costs.
CPA Exam Application Fees and More
To begin, you’ll need to pay a CPA exam application fee. The initial application fee generally ranges from $50 to $200, but it varies by state. Beyond this, there are other registration fees associated with scheduling each section of the exam. Some states might even charge registration fees each time you schedule, especially if you’re splitting up the sections over different testing windows.
International candidates should note that international CPA exam fees apply if you’re testing outside the U.S., and these can add significant costs to the process.
If you fail a section, there’s an additional exam section fee each time you apply to retake it. You’ll need to pass all required exams within 18 to 30 months to avoid repaying these fees for expired credits.
CPA Exam Retake Fees: The Cost of Rescheduling and Retaking Sections
If you don’t pass a section on the first attempt, you’ll have to pay to retake it. The CPA exam rescheduling fee generally ranges from $50 to $200, depending on how close you are to the scheduled exam date when you reschedule. Some states may also require a separate reapplication fee every time you retake a section, which can add up if you need multiple attempts.
Keep in mind that once you pass one section, you have an 18-month window to complete the remaining three. If you don’t, you’ll need to retake any expired sections, which means additional costs in exam fees.
CPA License Fees
After passing the CPA exam, you’ll still need to pay CPA licensing fees to get your CPA license. These licensing fees generally fall between $100 to $300, depending on the state. In addition to licensing fees, many states require candidates to pass an ethics exam. The ethics exam fee ranges between $100 and $200.
Once you’ve achieved your CPA certification and become a licensed CPA, there’s an ongoing need to complete continuing professional education (CPE) requirements annually to maintain your license. This CPE requirement involves courses and seminars, which come with additional costs.
CPA Exam Costs Breakdown: A Realistic Look at Your Budget
Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to pay throughout the CPA journey:
- Application Fee: $50 to $200, depending on your state
- Exam Fees (4 sections): $720 to $1,380
- CPA Licensing Fees: $100 to $300
- Ethics Exam: $100 to $200
- CPA Exam Rescheduling Fee (if needed): $50 to $200
- CPA Exam Prep Course: Average cost around $3,500
Adding it all up, your total cost can range from approximately $2,000 to $4,000, with an additional $1,000 to $3,500 if you invest in a CPA exam prep course. Factoring in the prep course fees can bring your total investment to $5,000 or more, depending on your choices and specific needs.
Return on Investment: Is the CPA Exam Worth the Cost?
The cost of the CPA exam can seem high at first, but it’s an investment with long-term rewards. The average salary for CPAs in the U.S. is over $75,000 per year, and CPAs often enjoy substantial job security and growth opportunities. Whether you’re working in a CPA firm or in a corporate role, a CPA designation often opens doors to senior positions and new responsibilities.
Studying for the CPA exam is like training for a marathon—it requires time, persistence, and resources. The financial commitment now pays off through the career flexibility, opportunities, and income potential that come with being a licensed CPA.
Conclusion
The cost of the CPA exam is a significant financial investment, but one that has the potential to pay off for a lifetime. Whether you’re budgeting for the CPA exam application fee, exam fees, or CPA licensing fees, planning ahead will help keep your costs manageable. Factor in possible retake fees and the ethics exam requirement to avoid surprises. With the right preparation and dedication, the CPA journey can lead to a rewarding career in accounting.
FAQs
The total cost of taking the CPA exam alone usually falls between $2,000 and $4,000. This estimate includes state-specific application fees, exam section fees for all four sections, licensing fees, and potential additional expenses such as rescheduling or retake fees, which can vary based on state requirements and personal circumstances.
Yes, most states charge an application fee, which can range from $50 to $200, depending on where you apply.
If you need to change your exam date, you’ll likely have to pay a CPA exam rescheduling fee, which can range from $50 to $200, depending on how close you are to the scheduled exam date.
If you fail, you’ll need to pay an exam section fee to retake that part of the exam, which is usually around $200 per section.
Yes, after passing, you’ll need to pay for your CPA license, which typically costs between $100 and $300. You may also be required to complete an ethics exam, which can cost an additional $100 to $200.
Many employers offer reimbursement for CPA exam fees or CPA review courses and study materials. It’s worth checking with your employer to see if they provide this benefit.
Most candidates take between 12 to 30 months to complete all four sections, depending on their study schedule and whether they pass each section on the first attempt.
Most CPA review courses cost around $3,500, depending on the provider and the level of access you choose. Some providers offer payment plans to help manage costs.
While not required, many CPA candidates find that using a CPA prep course significantly increases their chances of passing on the first attempt, especially given the exam’s challenging content.
