CPA Course

CPA Overview

CPA Eligibility

CPA Salary

CA vs. CPA

CPA Schedule

CPA Fees

Miles CPA

CPA Schedule

Course Duration, Timeline & Study Plan

How long does it take to become a CPA?

The CPA course duration is one of the most common questions students ask — and for good reason.
Unlike other professional qualifications, the US CPA course is flexible and modular. You can choose your own CPA exam schedule and study pace based on your personal and professional commitments.
With the right strategy and support, you can become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in 12 to 18 months, or even faster.

CPA CourseDuration

Program Element

CPA Exam Preparation

4 CPA Exams (FAR, AUD, REG, BAR)

Work Experience (for license)

Total CPA Course Duration

Typical Duration

9–12 months

Flexible – Can be completed in 6–12 months

12–24 months (can be done while working)

12–18 months (exam
+ experience)

CPA Schedule

Exam Structure & Timeline

📖 The CPA exam consists of 4 sections, and you can choose the order in which to take them.
Each section is a 4-hour computer-based exam, and you're allowed to take one section at a time.

FAR

Financial Accounting
& Reporting

AUD

Auditing &
Attestation

REG

Regulation
(Taxation & Law)

BAR

Business Analysis &
Reporting

CPAExam Window

When Can You Take the Exam?

No fixed exam windows — you can schedule your CPA exam year-round

The CPA exam is available in India and other international locations

You must wait only 24–48 hours between exams

Most candidates take exams 1–2 months apart

Sample CPA Study Plan

For Working Professionals

Month

Month 1–2

Month 3

Month 4–5

Month 6

Month 7

Month 8

Month 9

Month 10

Activity

Prep for
FAR

Take FAR
Exam

Prep for
AUD

Take AUD
Exam

Prep for
REG

Take REG
Exam

Prep for
BAR

Take BAR
Exam

This 10-month CPA exam plan is achievable with just 15–20 study hours/week.

CPA CourseDuration in India

With online training, recorded lectures, live classes, and flexible testing centers in India, the CPA course is now faster and more accessible than ever for Indian candidates.
With Miles Education, 80 %+ of Indian CPAs complete all 4 exams in under 12 months, even while working.