How Much Does It Cost to Take the CPA Exam
Passing the CPA exam is a huge milestone for accountants. But before you get to the study guides and Prometric testing centers, there’s one unavoidable hurdle: cost.
The CPA exam isn’t cheap. In fact, many CPA candidates are surprised by how many additional fees add up beyond the exam itself — from application fees to education evaluation, review course fees, domestic testing fees, and licensing requirements after you pass. Knowing what to expect (and how to plan for it) is the key to budgeting smartly and avoiding hidden costs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the total cost of becoming a CPA — and show you where you can save money without cutting corners. So, how much does it cost to take the cpa exam?
Table of Contents
Why You Need a CPA Exam Budget
Whether you’re a recent grad, international candidate, or working professional, the financial investment for CPA certification can range from $2,000 to over $5,500, depending on your state board of accountancy and personal path.
Without a financial plan, these costs can sneak up on you, creating a financial burden or delaying your testing date.
1. CPA Exam Application Fees (Varies by State)
Before you can sit for any exam section, you’ll need to complete an online application process through your state board of accountancy. Most charge a one-time initial application fee.
💰 Average Application Fee: $50 – $200
- California: $100
- Texas: $90
- New York: $170
- Florida: $50
📌 Pro Tip: Fees are non-refundable. Ensure your academic credentials meet state standards before submitting your education evaluation application.
2. CPA Exam Section Fees: Paid Per Part
The CPA Evolution model has reshaped the CPA exam format. It now includes:
Core Sections (Mandatory):
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
Discipline (Choose One):
- Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
- Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP)
- Information Systems and Controls (ISC)
💰 Exam Fee per Section: $250 – $300
Total for Four Parts: $1,000 – $1,200
Example from NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy):
- AUD: $262.64
- FAR: $262.64
- REG: $262.64
- BAR: $262.64
→ Total: $1050.56
📉 Note: Some sections like FAR have pass rates under 40%, meaning retake fees and examination fees can increase your total cost.
3. Registration and Rescheduling Fees
Depending on your state, you may pay additional registration fees when scheduling multiple exam sections.
💰 Registration Fee: $20 – $50 per transaction
Rescheduling via Prometric testing center:
- $35 – $100 (within 24 hours of your exam)
- Full exam section fee if you no-show or miss your Notice to Schedule (NTS) window
4. Ethics Exam Fees (State-Dependent)
Many state boards of accountancy require an additional ethics exam post-exam to complete CPA licensure.
💰 Cost: $130 – $250
- AICPA Ethics Exam: $189
- Some states charge own fees for processing or evaluations
5. CPA Exam Review Course Costs
Passing the CPA exam without a solid CPA exam review course is extremely rare. These courses offer study materials, task-based simulations, flashcards, and unlimited access to mock exams.
💰 Review Course Fees: $1,000 – $3,500
Examples:
- Becker CPA Review: $2,499 – $3,499
- Surgent CPA Review: $1,599 – $2,899
- Gleim: $1,599
- Roger (UWorld) CPA Review: $2,099 – $2,999
- NINJA CPA Review: $67-$87/month
🏱 Pro Tip: Save money with employer reimbursement programs, review course bundles, or student discounts.
6. International CPA Exam Fees
International candidates often pay additional fees when testing outside the U.S.
💰 Additional Fees:
- International Testing Fee: ~$356 per section
- Foreign education evaluation: $100 – $250
- Visa/travel expenses (varies by region)
🌍 Tip: States like Illinois and Guam are more accommodating to international CPA exam candidates.
7. CPA Licensing Fees and Continuing Education
After you pass the CPA exam and ethics exam, your journey continues with CPA licensure.
💰 CPA Licensing Fees:
- $50 – $300 depending on state
- Some charge biannual CPA licensing fees for renewal
You’ll also need to maintain your CPA license by completing CPE (Continuing Professional Education) courses regularly. Some states may also require a background check.
8. Miscellaneous CPA Costs to Consider
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Transcript Request Fees | $10 – $20 per school |
| Passport Photos | $10 – $20 |
| Notary Fees | $10 – $50 |
| Travel to Testing Centers | Varies |
💸 Total Estimated CPA Exam Cost Breakdown
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
| Application + Registration | $200 – $300 |
| Exam Fees (All Sections) | $800 – $1,000 |
| Ethics Exam | $130 – $250 |
| CPA Review Course | $1,000 – $3,500 |
| Licensing & Misc. Fees | $200 – $500 |
| Total Cost | $2,300 – $5,550 |
💡 How to Save on CPA Exam Costs
🎓 1. Use Student Discounts or Employer Reimbursement
Ask if your firm will sponsor your CPA exam review course or exam fees.
🏱 2. Choose a Review Course Bundle Wisely
Look for features like unlimited access, free retakes, or ethics exam inclusion.
🌟 3. Time Your Notice to Schedule (NTS) Strategically
Avoid paying additional fees for re-registration or missed testing dates.
🗃 4. Bundle Exam Sections When Allowed
Some states let you register once for multiple sections to avoid added registration fees.
💼 5. Deduct CPA-Related Costs on Your Taxes
CPA exam and prep costs may be deductible if related to your job or current profession.
✅ Final Checklist: Are You Financially Ready for the CPA Exam?
- I’ve reviewed my state board’s application and exam section fees
- I’ve budgeted for a CPA review course
- I understand the discipline section I’ll choose
- I know the total cost of CPA licensure — not just CPA exam fees
- I’ve researched ways to save money or get reimbursed
Conclusion: Know Before You Go
The CPA exam is more than a test — it’s a serious financial investment in your career. But by understanding how much it costs to take the CPA exam, from application fees and education evaluations to licensing requirements, you can minimize surprises and make the most of every dollar.
Plan your CPA journey wisely, invest in the right CPA exam review course, and follow each step closely. Whether you’re one of many new CPA candidates or an experienced accountant ready to earn your CPA designation, the path is clear: stay informed, stay organized, and you’ll be ready to pass the CPA exam and become a licensed CPA.