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Accounting Careers, Pathways, & Resources

CPA Career & Examination Information

What Is a CPA?

A CPA is a certified public accountant who is licensed by a state board of accountancy.

Source: NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy), https://nasba.org/exams/becomingacpa/#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20CPA?,This%20Way%20To%20CPA%20website.

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CPAs prepare, organize, and analyze financial records for clients. This includes tax returns and records that are submitted to investors, financial institutions, and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Public accountants can work at CPA firms, for individuals, companies, nonprofits, or the government. They may specialize in areas like taxation, financial reporting, consulting, auditing, and forensic accounting. Some CPAs are self-employed, and most work full time. They frequently work overtime during busy times of year, including tax season.

Source: Accounting.com, https://www.accounting.com/careers/cpa/

CPA Exam