For aspiring accountants, earning the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is a major milestone that can unlock high-paying roles and leadership opportunities in finance, auditing, and consulting. But before you begin the journey, there’s one question almost everyone asks: How long does a CPA take?
While the answer varies depending on your background, state requirements, and study habits, this guide outlines the typical timeline — from education to exam completion — so you know what to expect and how to plan effectively.
Step 1: Earning Your Degree (4–5 Years)
The first step to becoming a CPA is completing the necessary education. Most states require:
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A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field
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A total of 150 credit hours of college coursework
Since a traditional bachelor’s degree only covers about 120 credit hours, you’ll likely need to take additional coursework or pursue a master’s degree to meet the 150-hour requirement. Some students choose to enroll in a 5-year combined bachelor’s/master’s program, which helps meet this requirement more efficiently.
Time estimate:
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4 years for a bachelor’s degree
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An additional year if pursuing a master’s or extra credits
Step 2: Gaining Work Experience (Varies by State, 6–24 Months)
Most states require CPA candidates to complete 1–2 years of supervised work experience under a licensed CPA. This experience must usually be in accounting, auditing, taxation, or financial analysis. Some states allow this experience to be gained before, during, or after passing the CPA exam.
Time estimate:
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12 to 24 months (often completed while studying for the exam)
Step 3: Applying and Getting Approved for the CPA Exam (1–3 Months)
Once you’ve met the educational requirements, you’ll apply to your state board for approval to take the CPA exam. This process includes submitting transcripts, paying application fees, and waiting for a Notice to Schedule (NTS).
Depending on your state and how quickly your documents are processed, this part can take a few weeks to a few months.
Time estimate:
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4 to 12 weeks
Step 4: Studying for and Passing the CPA Exam (6–12 Months)
The CPA exam includes four sections:
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Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
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Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
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Regulation (REG)
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Business Environment and Concepts (BEC) (soon to be replaced under the CPA Evolution)
Most candidates spend 80–120 hours per section studying. While the AICPA gives you 18 months to pass all four sections after passing your first one, many candidates aim to finish in under a year. How long it actually takes depends on whether you’re studying full-time or balancing it with work or school.
Time estimate:
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6 to 12 months of preparation and exam time
Step 5: Ethics Exam (Optional but Required in Some States)
Some states require candidates to pass an ethics exam, which typically takes a few weeks to complete and submit. The exam is usually open-book and taken online.
Time estimate:
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2 to 4 weeks
Total Time to Become a CPA
So, how long does a CPA take from start to finish?
| Stage | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| Education | 4–5 years |
| Work Experience | 1–2 years (can overlap) |
| Exam Application | 1–3 months |
| CPA Exam | 6–12 months |
| Ethics Exam | 1 month (if required) |
| Total | 5.5 to 7 years (depending on overlap and pace) |
Keep in mind, you can speed up the process by taking summer classes, overlapping work and exam prep, or enrolling in an accelerated master’s program.
Tips to Speed Up the CPA Process
If you want to complete the CPA journey faster, consider these strategies:
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Take college courses strategically to meet the 150-credit hour requirement sooner
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Start gaining work experience while finishing your education
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Use a trusted CPA exam prep resource, such as Shaun Stoltz’s platform at shaunstoltz.com, which offers practical advice, efficient study methods, and support tailored for CPA candidates
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Stick to a study schedule and take the exams as close together as possible to maintain momenFinal Thoughts
The CPA path is demanding but incredibly rewarding. Knowing how long does a CPA take helps you map out your goals realistically and stay on track. Whether you’re just starting college or already working in the field, planning your CPA timeline early can save time and reduce stress.
By staying disciplined, using the right study tools, and understanding each step of the process, you’ll be better prepared to earn your CPA license — and take your accounting career to the next level.
