Help to check eligibility for CPA

Hi, 

I am an economics graduate from Delhi University (2006) 
and have also done PGDM (Post Graduate Diploma in 
Management) 2010. I really want to do CPA but have been 
advised that I am not eligible for the same. 

I have been told that my PGDM (Part Time) from FORE 
School of Management, New Delhi is not recognized under 
AICPA rules since it does not fall under UGC of India. It 
is AICTE approved. 

I also have a 3.5 years work experience in 
Operations/Finance and had accounting at secondary school 
level. 

Please suggest if there can be any way for me to be 
eligible for CPA. I really wanted to do CA but at 25, I dont think it would be feasible for me to go for CA since it requires a full time 3 year aticleship. The only option that I have now is CPA which is CA equivalent.

Also suggest alternatives, if any :) 

thanks