Should I pursue CPA instead of CA? Which course is better?

Suman (CMA) (195 Points)

02 September 2021  

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a license issued in 55 states or territories of the United States that authorizes the holder to practice as a CPA in that jurisdiction. To earn the prestige associated with the CPA license, an individual is required to demonstrate knowledge and competence by meeting high educational standards, passing the CPA exam, and completing a specific amount of general accounting experience. The two most important aspects of becoming a CPA are passing the Uniform CPA Exam and meeting licensing requirements in the state where you want to practice. It is a short duration course with just 4 exams, which can be completed in less than a year's time.

As for CPA eligibility, you need 120 credits to appear for the CPA exam and 150 credits for a CPA license.
General rule: Every year of university education in India is equivalent to 30-semester credits of US education.

Some state boards award credit for international professional qualifications like CA.
For international CPA candidates from India, generally 3-year commerce graduates from NAAC A universities who have scored a 1 st division are awarded 120 credits.