The AICPA and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) now seek input on a proposed competency-based experience model for CPA licensure.
The CPA Competency-Based Experience Pathway offers an additional way for CPA candidates to demonstrate their professional and technical skills after earning a bachelor's degree and meeting state requirements for accounting and business courses.
This pathway increases flexibility for the next generation of accountants while upholding the profession's rigorous public protection standards.
Currently, after candidates obtain a bachelor's degree, they must pass the CPA Exam, complete one year of professional general experience and either earn a master's degree or take college courses that bring them to 150 total credit hours.
The master's degree/+30 pathways remain, but the proposal would add a competencies-based experience option. The AICPA and NASBA are accepting public input on the proposal through Friday, Dec. 6.