The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) is the global regulating body for the highly sought-after professional accounting certificate known as Certified Public Accountants (CPA). The US CPA is an extensively desired and highly respected certification on a global scale. In India, CPAs are in high demand. Their demand has led many aspirants to pursue this field. CPA course fees in India vary due to factors like location, etc. 

CPAs have a considerable understanding of company operations and financial instruments used for managerial objectives in businesses of all sizes. 

What is the Total Cost of CPA in India?

In India, starting the journey to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) involves meticulous planning, unwavering dedication, and financial investment. Let's examine the subtleties of Indian CPA costs.

The whole CPA course fees for Indian students fall into the following categories:

CPA Application Fee:

The application price ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the state (about INR 3,600 to INR 14,500).

CPA Examination Fee:

• USD 193.45 for each segment (about INR 14,100).
• The CPA test has four parts: AUD, BEC, FAR, and REG.
• Each exam has five testlets (groups of test questions).
• Each test consists of multiple-choice questions, task-based modelling, and written communication exercises.
• Each test is rated on a scale of 0 to 99, with a minimum passing score of 75.
• BEC has the greatest pass rate, while FAR has the lowest pass rate.
• Before scheduling your first CPA test section, you must evaluate your eligibility and apply to NASBA or your State Board of Accountancy.

CPA Registration Fee:

Depending on the state, applicants can register for one portion at a time or combine all sections and pay a registration fee. The Notice to Schedule is valid for six months.

CPA Ethics Fees:

• One segment at a time costs USD 63 (about INR. 4,600).
• USD 81 (about INR. 5,900) for two at a time.
• 3 at a time- USD 99 (about. INR. 7,200).
• 4 at a time- USD 177 (about. INR. 12,900).

CPA Licensing Fees:

After passing the standard CPA exam, several states require that you pass an ethical exam to obtain your license. The ethics exam costs USD150 - 200 (about INR. 10,900 to INR. 14,500).

On average, the total CPA course fees in India amount to approximately INR 3.5 – 4 lakhs. 

What are the Additional Costs of CPA?

Along with the costs involved with the main Certified Public Accountants (CPA) course, some other additional expenses add to the CPA fee structure. They are:

• Extensive Courses & Programs

Many people opt to enrol in entire CPA courses, which typically cost between INR 70,000 and INR 2,000,000. The ultimate fee varies depending on the institution of learning and the quality of the teachers.

• Mock Tests

They vary in price from INR 10,000 to 40,000 and closely resemble the structure and complexity of the actual test.

• Travel & Accommodation

The budget for lodging, travel, and meals will vary If the test centre you've chosen is located outside of your region. To save money, plan ahead of time and secure your travel arrangements and lodgings. To save money, plan ahead of time and secure your travel arrangements and lodgings.

• Membership Fees

These expenses are optional along with the original CPA cost, and pertinent only to candidates seeking licensure in their respective states. 

CPA Course Fees in USA

The table below highlights US CPA course fees in 2024:

Cost & Fee Type	2024 CPA Exam Costs
Education Evaluation Application Fees	$90 - $150 (Approx)
Examination Application Fees	$1100 - $1500 (Approx)
CPA Exam Retake Fee	$50 - $200
CPA Review Course	$1,000 - $4,000
Total	$2,240 - $5,850

Factors affecting CPA course fees in USA

Some factors affecting CPA fees in US are:

CPA Exam Application Fee

All the states follow the pricing structure for the CPA Exam, which is managed by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy, (NASBA) except New York. The fees for completing all four parts of the exams are usually within the range of $1,100 to $1500.

CPA Exam Section Application Fees

The majority of states follow the pricing structure for the CPA Exam, overseen by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). The total cost for completing all four sections of the exam typically ranges from $1100 to $1,500.

CPA Exam Review Course Costs

The expenses of the CPA exams may differ widely from $1,000 to $4,000. Generally, these courses encompass everything from all materials and resources for exam preparation: sample questions and their detailed explanations, computer software that mimics real-life exam conditions, interactive sessions, and study notes based on facts.

CPA Exam Rescheduling Fee

You should know that you will not be allowed to reschedule your exam with less than 24 hours left at the designated time as you will be required to re-register with your state board of accountancy. If you reschedule the CPA exam under other circumstances:

• Rescheduling at least thirty days in advance; there is no cost for rescheduling between five and thirty days; however, a $35 charge from Prometric Testing Center is a requirement if you do so less than five days before your current exam date.
• Additionally, you must pay the Prometric Testing Center the full cost of the CPA Exam section you are rescheduling.

International CPA Exam Fees

$390 for every CPA Exam segment. Foreign candidates who want to take the CPA Exam will have to not only pay domestic testing fees but also extra fees for each segment of the test that is from abroad.

What is the scope of CPA?

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in both India and the United States is a detailed journey requiring commitment and financial investment. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) oversees this prestigious certification, renowned for its thorough grasp of financial operations and managerial strategies applicable to diverse business contexts. In India, where the demand for CPAs is high, course fees vary based on factors like location and additional expenses for review courses and travel. 

Both CPA and CA course denote a superior level of proficiency and skill in accounting, auditing, taxation, and financial management. These certifications enjoy worldwide acknowledgement and hold significant esteem within the financial sector. 

Read More:

• What is US CPA eligibility criteria?
• CPA Salary
• How to become a CPA in Canada?
• Short term certification courses for commerce students
• What is CMA course?
• Career options after M.Com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the CPA course available in India?

The total CPA fee in India is INR 2,18,000.00. Eight Prometric test locations across the country— Hyderabad, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Calcutta, New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Trivandrum—host the CPA Exam.

Is CPA worth it in India?

Pursuing a US CPA course in India ensures several benefits. Allows holding an internationally approved degree which is a key to open global career routes most of which are within finance and accounting.

What is the salary of a fresher CPA in India?

A newly qualified CPA in India would typically have a salary of 6 lakhs per annum, which corresponds to about 50,000 rs per month. The average annual salary in a metropolis like Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai might be over 13.8 Lakhs. Employer choices may cause these figures to change, though.

What happens if CPA is not cleared in 18 months?

The CPA Exam's sections are still valid 18 months after the exam date. Beyond this timeframe, candidates must reattempt expired sections to uphold their certification progress.

What is a CPA in the USA?

A qualified accounting expert who has met state licensing mandate—which comprise of professional experience, schooling, and passing the CPA Exam— is described as Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Does CPA require articleship?

Differing from online CPA exams, CA exams are conducted offline. Furthermore, acquiring a CA license mandates a minimum of three years articleship at a chartered accountant firm, a stipulation exempted for CPA students.