One of the most frequently asked questions from CPA candidates just starting the process is about the CPA Exam cost. But, the answer to this question is more complicated than just sharing a fee. Several factors affect the cost of the CPA Exam, including the state where you're working toward your license, whether you pass on the first try, and any study materials you may use to prepare. To help you plan and budget, learn about the costs you can expect to incur.
How much does the CPA Exam cost?
The average 2025 CPA Exam fees and costs will be around $1,400. Let's take a snapshot of the costs before we break them down further. These are just average ranges, and some states' fees will be higher or lower.
| CPA Exam Cost and Fee Type | Approximate CPA Exam Costs for 2025 |
| Initial eligibility application | Between $20 and $150 |
| Registration fee per section | Between $80 and $140 (for each individual sections) Between $60 and $800 total |
| Examination fee per section | Between $200 to $300 (for each individual section) Between $800 and $1200 total |
| Total | $1,140 to $1,910 |
Application fees
Before you can sit for the CPA Exam, you'll need to apply with your state Board of Accountancy to ensure you meet their CPA Exam requirements. This is a one-time fee that again, varies from state to state. For example, Georgia's Education Evaluation Application Fee is $93.00, Texas's is only $20.00, and the one for Massachusetts is $133.00.
Registration fees
All states include a registration fee when you schedule each section of the CPA Exam. NASBA does recommend each section include a $93.00 registration fee per section. Again, this is state-dependent. For example, the registration fee in Massachusetts is $185.00 per section, while West Virginia's registration fee, called an "intent to sit" fee, is only $40 for each section.
CPA Exam cost per section
The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) recommends that each section of the CPA Exam cost $262.64. Assuming you pass all four sections (three Core sections and one Discipline) on the first attempt, the cost for all four exams would be $1,050.56. These fees include:
- NASBA section fee
- AICPA section fee
- Prometric fee
- Prometric security fee
While most of the 55 jurisdictions and state boards' fees align with NASBA's recommended fees, they can change the amount at their discretion, so we highly recommend verifying with your state Board of Accountancy for specific CPA Exam fees.
Retake fees
If you don't pass a section of the CPA Exam, you will need to retake it, which means you may have to repay a registration fee and the exam section fee.
Rescheduling fees
If you reschedule your CPA Exam date, you may need to pay additional fees to Prometric (the service provider where you take the exam). Typically, you won't incur a fee if you're more than 30 days away from your testing date, but if your date is less than 30 days, you will be charged.
International CPA Exam fees
For CPA candidates outside the United States, you will need to choose a state Board of Accountancy that will declare you eligible, as some states do have residency and citizenship requirements. In addition to paying any domestic testing fees, you will also need to pay an additional $390 per section.
Should you bundle your CPA Exam fees?
Some states may bundle the cost of registration fees for candidates by allowing you to pay for all four sections at once. It may seem tempting to register for all four sections of the exam at one time to save money. Still, your notice to schedule (NTS) is only valid for a specific period of time, usually between three and nine months, depending on your state. This means you will have to schedule all four exams within that period or risk paying your registration fees again.
Although the CPA Exam cost may seem high, scheduling your exams based on your realistic ability to prepare for each section within your NTS rather than saving on CPA Exam costs is necessary.
Additional fees for CPA licensure
Once you pass the CPA Exam and move forward toward getting your license, there are other fees to consider and plan for.
Ethics exam
Many states require CPA candidates to take an ethics course and pass an exam before obtaining licensure. Some states administer a state-specific exam, while others require the AICPA's self-study ethics exam, which costs between $250 and $320, depending on whether you're a member of the organization. Be sure to check your state's CPA requirements to see if you need this.
State licensing fee
You've passed the CPA Exam, completed your ethics course, and have your experience documented and signed off by a licensed CPA. Submitting all your information and obtaining your license will come with another fee, which does vary from state to state.
Is a CPA Exam review worth the cost?
We didn't include pricing for a review course in above CPA Exam fees because it's not a state-mandated fee, but it is worth mentioning.
Most review courses cost between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on which provider you choose. So, is this added cost worth it?
Absolutely! Having structured study plans, practice questions modeled after the actual exam, and expert guidance all significantly improve your chances of passing on the first try. While the upfront cost may seem high, it often saves time, improves readiness, and can lead to faster career advancement.
With Becker's CPA Exam Review, you'll get access to comprehensive materials and resources, plus unlimited support that get you Exam Day Readysm! This includes:
- Comprehensive digital and physical textbooks that align with AICPA's exam blueprint
- Over 900 engaging concept videos taught by our expert instructors to help you understand complex topics
- SkillBuilder solution videos that walk you through how to solve multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations successfully
- Newt™ AI, an AI learning tool that offers instant answers to your questions to make your exam prep more efficient and effective
- One-on-one live tutoring and unlimited access to academic and customer support
- Live Online classes so you can engage with the instructors and ask questions in the moment
- Customizable practice tests with over 9,000 MCQs and 400 TBSs with real-time feedback
- Simulated exams to ensure you know the exam format, time limitations, and exactly how the "real thing" feels
Becker's Exam Day ReadySM students have a 28% higher pass rate than all other exam takers, showing that using Becker significantly reduces the likelihood of having to re-take exam sections and continually pay the extra fees.
Is getting my CPA License worth the CPA Exam costs?
The short answer is yes! Having your CPA license opens the door to increased career opportunities, including operating your own CPA firm. When you compare the CPA salary vs non-CPA salary, you'll see a clear difference in your income potential.
We understand it can be daunting to earn your CPA license, but all the time, hard work, and even financial investment are well worth it.
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