US CPA Duration in India: How Long Does It Take to Complete?

Planning to become a US CPA but unsure how long it takes? The US CPA journey in India can be completed faster than most expect—with the right preparation and guidance. This article explains the US CPA course duration, key stages, and how to plan your timeline for success.

US CPA Course Duration in India: How Long Does It Take to Complete?

The US CPA (Certified Public Accountant) qualification is one of the most respected accounting credentials in the world. For many Indian commerce graduates, it’s a direct path to global career opportunities in finance, accounting, and auditing. But one of the first questions students ask is simple — how long does it actually take to complete the US CPA course in India?

Let’s break down the timeline step by step, from eligibility to final certification, so you know exactly what to expect.

Understanding the US CPA Course Structure

The US CPA program is governed by the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) and consists of four exam sections:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD) – Focuses on auditing processes, internal controls, and attestation standards.
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) – Covers financial statements, accounting principles, and reporting frameworks.
Regulation (REG) – Focuses on taxation, business law, and ethics.
Specialization (TCP/ISC/BAR) – Covers business analysis, integration, and advanced financial topics.

Each section tests specific areas of accounting, auditing, taxation, and business analysis.

US CPA Course Duration Overview

On average, most candidates in India complete the US CPA course within 12 to 18 months. The total duration depends on several factors your educational background, time available for study, and how efficiently you plan your exam schedule.

Here’s a general timeline:

Stage	Approximate Duration
Eligibility evaluation & NTS processing	1–2 months
Preparation for each exam section	3–4 months
Total time to complete all 4 exams	12–18 months
Licensing formalities after passing exams	2–4 months

So, with consistent effort, it’s possible to earn your US CPA within 1.5 years from start to finish.

Factors That Affect the US CPA Duration

a) Educational Backgroug: BCom and M.Com graduates often meet most eligibility requirements, but state boards may require additional credits in accounting or business.

b) Study Hours and Planning: Since each exam section requires around 120–150 study hours, managing a regular schedule can shorten the total duration.

c) Attempt Strategy: Many candidates appear for two sections together and finish the rest within the next testing window. Proper scheduling can help you complete the course faster.

d) Work or Academic Commitments: Working professionals may take longer if studying part-time, while full-time students often finish within a year.

Can You Complete the US CPA Course in One Year?

Yes, with careful planning and focused preparation. Completing all four exam sections in 12 months is achievable if you follow a structured study plan and have consistent mentorship.

EduMont Classes provides:

Guided study schedules tailored to your pace.
Mock tests and assessments to track progress
Expert mentorship for exam strategy and concept mastery.

This structured approach ensures that students can attempt all exam sections efficiently and meet the one-year goal.

US CPA Course Validity and Exam Windows

Each CPA exam section remains valid for 18 months once passed. This means you must complete the remaining sections within that time frame to maintain your earlier scores. Exams are now offered throughout the year in India, giving candidates flexibility to choose convenient testing dates.

How EduMont Classes Helps You Stay on Schedule

At EduMont Classes, we understand that time is a crucial factor for every student. Our CPA program is structured for efficiency — helping you complete the entire process within your target duration. We assist with:

Eligibility assessment and application support
Personalized study timelines for each section
Concept-based learning from expert mentors
Regular assessments to measure progress
Guidance for final licensing after exam success

Summary: Your US CPA Timeline at a Glance

Phase	Duration	Key Outcome
Step 1: Application & Evaluation	1–2 months	Eligibility confirmed
Step 2: Preparation & Coaching	9–12 months	All four exams completed
Step 3: Licensing & Approval	2–4 months	Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Total Duration: 12 to 18 months on average

Final Thoughts

Completing the US CPA course in India is entirely achievable within 12 to 18 months, depending on your preparation, focus, and support system. With structured guidance, clear planning, and expert coaching from EduMont Classes, you can complete your CPA journey efficiently and step into a rewarding global career in finance, accounting, and auditing.

Whether you aim for high-paying roles in multinational corporations, top consulting firms, or corporate finance teams, understanding the course duration and planning effectively can make all the difference in achieving your professional goals.