Applying for the CPA Exam

Once you've determined when you'd like to sit for the CPA exam, the next step is to submit you application. CPA exam applicants can now apply for the online or via print mail. Applications generally take 4 - 8 weeks to process. Review the steps below to ensure you have the necessary materials to avoid any application delays.

First-time applicants

If you have never applied for the exam before, start the process by visiting NASBA's website. There you can download a copy of the application or complete and submit the application online. If you choose to submit the application online, you'll still need to mail photo, transcript and any other supporting documentation to NASBA.

Information needed to complete the application

  • Contact information
  • Social Security number
  • Employer information (if applicable)
  • Education history
  • 2 x 2 passport-style photo taken within past 3 months

    Note: All candidates are required to pay both an application fee and the fee for each exam section you're applying to take at the time of registration. Please see our exam fact sheet for information on CPA exam fees.

Online application details

  • Visit NASBA's website to obtain application
  • Complete online application
  • Register for selected section(s) and submit payment via credit card
  • Mail additional supporting documentation, such as transcript and photo, to NASBA
  • Application takes 4 - 6 weeks to process

Print application details

  • Visit NASBA's website to obtain and print application
  • Mail application and supporting documentation to NASBA
  • Include payment (check or credit card) with application
  • Application takes 6 - 8 weeks to process

CPA re-exam candidates

Reexamination candidates are those who have previously taken the CPA exam as a candidate of the State of Minnesota.

Reexam candidates must complete an online registration. You can also apply by phone with CPA Examination Services at 800-CPA-EXAM or 615-880-4250, Monday through Friday, 8:00 -- 4:30 p.m. Central Standard Time.

There is a modified CPA exam fee schedule for reexamination candidates. To see the current fees, go to NASBA's exam fees page and click on the "Re-Examination Fee" button.

Most common reasons for application delays

  • Candidate fails to submit transcripts from ALL schools attended
  • Candidate lacks specific, required course work
  • Course descriptions must be obtained to ensure that particular subject matter was covered
  • Candidate lacks required credit hours in one or more academic areas
  • Candidate fails to meet special jurisdiction requirements (e.g., board fees, addition forms)
  • Candidate fails to submit appropriate fees
  • Candidate fails to sign application
  • Candidate fails to submit photo (approximately 50% of jurisdictions require a photo)