Everything You Need to Know to Sit for the CPA Exams

Sharing exactly how to apply and sit for the CPA Exams

So...you've decided you want those three magical letters after your name: CPA and you’re thinking about becoming a CPA but have no idea where to start? You're not alone. One of the most common questions I get is, "How do I actually sign up for the CPA Exam?"

You probably Googled "How do I sign up for the CPA Exam?" and suddenly you're drowning in state boards, transcripts, application fees, NASBA, NTSs, and Prometric.

Take a deep breath because it's really not that complicated. I'm breaking down exactly how to apply for the U.S. CPA Exam in five simple steps, so you can stop overthinking and start checking things off your CPA to-do list.

One important disclaimer: Every state has its own unique CPA Exam requirements, so always verify your state's rules before applying and can check here and on your State’s Board of Accountancy website. While the process is very similar across the U.S., the education requirements and fees can vary.


STEP 1: YOUR STATE’S EDUCATION AND ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Before you can even think about taking the CPA Exam, your state needs to determine that you're eligible.

This is where many people get tripped up.

Each State Board of Accountancy has its own education requirements, which may include:

  • A bachelor's degree

  • A certain number of accounting credits

  • Business course credits

  • A minimum number of total college credit hours

  • Additional education beyond your bachelor's degree in some states

Translation? Just because your friend qualified in Texas doesn't automatically mean you'll qualify in California.

Some states allow candidates to sit for the exam before reaching 150 credit hours, while others have different education pathways, so always check your state's requirements first.

My hot tip: If you're still in college, plan your classes early so you don't end up taking random courses later just to hit your required credit hours.


STEP 2: SUBMIT YOUR CPA EXAM APPLICATION

Once you've met your state's eligibility requirements, it's application time.

You'll typically submit your application to your State Board of Accountancy (or through a CPA or NASBA Portal if your jurisdiction participates), along with your official transcripts and any other required documents.

You'll also pay your application fee, which varies by state. Now comes everyone's least favorite part...Waiting.

Your state board reviews your education to make sure you qualify to sit for the CPA Exam. Depending on the state, this process can take anywhere from a few weeks to over a month.


STEP 3: PAY REGISTRATION AND EXAM FEES

Once your application is approved, congrats! You've unlocked the next level.

Now you'll pay:

  • Registration fee

  • CPA Exam section fee(s)

Yes...there are multiple fees. And no...none of us like it either.

After your payment is processed, you'll become eligible to receive your Notice to Schedule (NTS).


STEP 4: RECEIVE YOUR NOTICE TO SCHEDULE (NTS)

Think of your Notice to Schedule (NTS) as your golden ticket.

Without it... You're not taking the CPA Exams (I’m serious).

Your NTS contains:

  • Your candidate information

  • The CPA Exam section(s) you're approved to take

  • Your unique identification number

  • Your NTS expiration date

You'll use the information on your NTS to schedule your exam appointment, so don't forget to bring it on exam day and definitely don't let it expire before taking your exam. Otherwise, you'll likely have to pay again.


STEP 5: SCHEDULE YOUR CPA EXAM AT A PROMETRIC TESTING CENTER

You've officially made it to the fun part.

Once your NTS arrives, you can schedule your CPA Exam with a Prometric Testing Center near you.

Choose your:

  • Testing location

  • Date

  • Time

Pro tip: Schedule as early as possible.

Testing appointments especially weekends and busy testing seasons can fill up quickly. Booking early gives you the best chance of getting the date and location you want!


CPA EXAM APPLICATION CHECKLIST

  1. Check your state's CPA Exam education requirements

  2. Meet your state's eligibility requirements

  3. Submit your CPA Exam application to your State Board of Accountancy

  4. Pay your application, registration, and exam fees

  5. Receive your Notice to Schedule (NTS)

  6. Schedule your exam with Prometric Testing Center


The CPA Exam application process might sound intimidating, but it's really just paperwork, patience, and a few fees before the real challenge begins.

Remember: every CPA has filled out these same applications, waited for approval, and nervously clicked "Schedule Exam."

You're not behind.

You're exactly where every CPA started.

Now go get that NTS...and let's make those three letters happen!


READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?

Now that you know the five steps to apply for the CPA Exam, it's time to create a game plan that actually gets you to those three letters: CPA.

That's exactly why I created The CPA Exam Guide for navigating the entire CPA journey with confidence.

Inside, you'll get:

  • A step-by-step breakdown of the CPA Exam application process

  • Every state's CPA Exam education and eligibility requirements in one place

  • CPA Exam 101 for beginners

  • Study strategies to help you prepare smarter (not harder!)

  • CPA Exam planning checklists

  • Tips to stay organized and avoid common mistakes

  • Plus even more resources to help you feel confident from application to exam day

No more spending hours jumping between your state board website, NASBA, or wondering if you're missing a step. I've done the research so you don't have to.

Download the The CPA Exam Guide today and start your CPA journey with a clear roadmap to success. Your future CPA self will thank you!

Comment what state you’d like to become a CPA in and any questions you have!

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