The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is highly regarded qualification in the accounting and finance sectors. This certification, provided by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), offers significant benefits. It enables Indian professionals with a B.Com or CA degree to become specially qualified Chartered Accountants, equipping them with knowledge of US auditing practices and the skills to work with multinational corporations.

Eligibility for Indian Students
To be eligible for the CPA qualification, Indian students must meet one of the following criteria:

Hold a B.Com or B.B.A. (Finance) and a Master's Degree in Commerce, Accountancy, or Finance, or
Hold a B.Com or B.B.A. (Finance) and possess a professional qualification such as CA, CMA, or ICWA, or Have a three-year degree in Business, Finance, or Accounts from a recognized university in India.

One year of university education in India is equivalent to 30 credits. To sit for the CPA exam, a student must accumulate 120 credits. For obtaining a CPA license, 150 credits are required.

Training Abroad
CPA professionals aiming to practice abroad must understand the specific requirements of different states in US, including education, exams, experience, and licensing criteria. Adhering to the AICPA's Code of Professional Conduct and being proficient with modern technologies such as automation, cloud computing, data analytics, blockchain, and cybersecurity is crucial.

With proper planning, financial management, dedication, and adherence to ethical standards, a CPA can pursue a successful career in finance, unlocking bright opportunities at an international level.

- Pankaj Dhingra, Founder, Fintram Global