Become a CPA

The information below is a brief summary of the basic requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Other requirements, not listed here, must also be met. The requirements to become a CPA change over time. To get the latest and most complete information on how to become a CPA in California, visit the California State Board of Accountancy web site.

Basic requirements to become a CPA:

1. Complete a Bachelor's degree. The degree may be in any subject
2. Complete a minimum of 24 semester units in Accounting
3. Complete a minimum of 24 semester units in Business courses
   (Accounting courses beyond the 24 required units apply toward Business units)
4. Pass the CPA Exam
5. Pass an ethics exam
6. Complete a work experience requirement
7. Meet the 150-semester hour requirement

For more information about the CPA profession and careers opportunities, visit the web sites below:

• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
• Accounting Careers (from AICPA web site)
• California Society of CPAs
• How to to Become a CPA (from California Society of Public Accountants web site)
• Peninsula / Silicon Valley Chapter of the California Society of CPAs