REQUIREMENTS – HOW TO BECOME A CPA

Becoming a CPA is a significant accomplishment. Congratulations on taking the first and most important step, to understand what it takes to make it happen!

The CPA license is issued at the state level. The NJCPA is a great place for resources and information to understand and meet the New Jersey mandates for licensure. We’ll guide you through meeting the three requirements for becoming a CPA: education, exam and experience.

 

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To sit for the CPA Exam in New Jersey

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher from accredited school/university
  • 24 semester hours in accounting and 24 semester hours in business
  • Minimum of 120 semester hours
  • Degree can be in any field of study

To become licensed in New Jersey

  • 150 semester hours from accredited school. Credits can be obtained within or beyond a degree program.
  • One year of experience (1,750 hours) working under a CPA whose active license is from NJ or from a state that is substantially equivalent to NJ. Currently all states are substantially equivalent. The experience must be in the areas of auditing or accounting.

See also

Icon_Laptop_3_check Marks_SKY-04Exam


The CPA Exam is a 16-hour, computer-based test comprised of four sections. Exam takers must pass all four sections within 30 months, earning a minimum score of 75 on each part.

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Icon_brain_SIDE_profile_SKY-04Experience


In order to apply for a CPA license in New Jersey, you must have one year of experience in the practice of public accounting or its equivalent, under the direction of a licensee. The experience must includes evidence of intensive and diversified experience in auditing or accounting as determined by regulation of the board. 

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