New York City is one of the most prestigious and competitive environments for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). With major financial firms, multinational corporations, and bustling industries headquartered here, becoming a CPA in NYC can open the door to lucrative and diverse career opportunities. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in accounting or finance, this step-by-step guide will show you how to become a CPA in the financial capital of the world.
Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements
To become a CPA in NYC, you’ll need to meet specific educational criteria set by the state of New York. The New York State Board for Public Accountancy requires aspiring CPAs to complete 150 credit hours of higher education. This typically means earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field, plus additional graduate-level coursework to meet the credit requirement.
Many universities in NYC offer accounting programs that meet this standard, including New York University (NYU) and Baruch College, both of which are highly respected for their accounting and finance programs. Pursuing a Master’s in Accounting is a popular option for students who need to fulfill the 150-credit requirement.
Step 2: Pass the CPA Exam
The next critical step in becoming a CPA in NYC is passing the Uniform CPA Examination. The CPA exam consists of four sections:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
Each section of the CPA exam is challenging, and you’ll need to pass all four within an 18-month window. To increase your chances of success, many CPA candidates enroll in CPA prep courses.
Step 3: Fulfill the Experience Requirement
In addition to passing the CPA exam, New York requires candidates to complete one year of full-time work experience (or the equivalent in part-time hours) under the supervision of a licensed CPA. This experience must involve providing services in accounting, auditing, financial advisory, or tax consulting. Partner with AcctPositions, a leading accounting staffing agency in NYC, to gain hands-on work experience.
Step 4: Apply for Your CPA License
Once you’ve passed the CPA exam and gained the required experience, you can apply for your CPA license through the New York State Education Department (NYSED). You’ll need to provide proof of your education, exam results, and work experience. After the application is approved, you’ll officially be a licensed CPA in New York.
Step 5: Find a Job as a CPA in NYC
Step 6: Stay Compliant with Continuing Education
