Dreaming of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the US? You’re not alone—thousands are chasing this prestigious license in 2025. But here’s the catch: to sit for the CPA Exam and earn your license, you need 150 semester hours of college credit, including specific accounting and business courses. For most, that means finding the right courses to bridge the gap beyond a standard bachelor’s degree. Whether you’re a recent grad or a working professional, meeting CPA requirements can feel overwhelming—unless you know where to look.

This guide highlights the best courses to meet CPA requirements, tailored for aspiring US CPAs. From online options to affordable credits, we’ll show you how to get exam-ready and licensed without breaking the bank or your schedule. Ready to take the next step? Let’s dive in and find the top courses to meet the CPA requirements that can fast-track your CPA journey—starting with options available at cpacredits.com.

Understanding CPA Education Requirements

To earn a US CPA license, all 50 states (plus jurisdictions like DC and Guam) require 150 semester hours of college credit—30 more than a typical 120-hour bachelor’s degree. You’ll also need 24-36 hours of accounting courses (covering financial accounting, auditing, taxation, etc.) and 24-30 hours of business-related subjects (like finance or business law), depending on your state. Some states let you sit for the exam with 120 hours, but you’ll need the full 150 for licensure.

Why the extra hours? The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) set this standard to ensure CPAs are well-prepared for today’s complex financial landscape. As of 2025, these rules still hold firm, though some states are exploring flexibility (e.g., Ohio’s recent shift). Check your state board’s specifics—California, for instance, demands 10 hours of ethics, while Texas requires 21 upper-level accounting hours.

The challenge? Many undergrad programs don’t hit 150 hours, leaving gaps to fill. That’s where targeted courses come in. You can take additional classes at a university, but costs and schedules often don’t align for busy CPA hopefuls. Online, self-paced courses are a game-changer—offering flexibility and affordability to meet CPA requirements fast.

Best Courses to Meet CPA Requirements (500-600 words)

Here are top options to rack up those crucial credits, with a spotlight on solutions for aspiring US CPAs:

1. CPAcredits.com Self-Paced Courses

Looking for a fast, affordable way to hit 150 hours? CPAcredits.com offers accredited, self-paced online courses designed specifically for CPA candidates. From accounting fundamentals to business electives, these courses align with state board requirements. Priced to save you up to 70% compared to traditional college tuition, they’re perfect for working professionals or anyone needing extra credits on a budget. Start anytime, study anywhere, and transfer credits to your transcript—visit cpacredits.com to explore options and register in minutes.

2. Community College Credits

Many accredited community colleges offer transferable accounting and business courses at a fraction of university costs. For example, California’s community colleges provide online classes like “Intermediate Accounting” or “Business Law” that count toward CPA requirements. Check NASBA’s guidelines or your state board to ensure transferability—some states cap community college credits.

3. University Extension Programs

Schools like UCLA Extension or Penn State World Campus offer online courses tailored for CPA prep, such as “Auditing” or “Taxation Principles.” These are pricier but carry strong academic weight and often include CPA Exam-focused content. Ideal if you’re near the 150-hour mark and want high-quality credits.

4. Master’s Degree Programs

Pursuing a Master’s in Accounting (e.g., from Southern New Hampshire University online) can cover your extra hours while deepening your expertise. It’s a bigger investment, but it doubles as CPA Exam prep and a resume booster. Look for programs with flexible online tracks.

How to Pick the Right CPA Courses for You

Not sure where to start? Consider these factors:

  • State Rules: Verify your state’s accounting and business hour requirements—cpacredits.com courses are built to comply nationwide.
  • Budget: Self-paced options like CPAcredits.com beat university tuition hands-down.
  • Schedule: Online flexibility is key if you’re balancing work or exam prep.
  • Transferability: Ensure credits are from accredited schools and accepted by your state board.

Before enrolling, map out your current credits against the 150-hour goal. Need help? CPAcredits.com offers guidance to pinpoint exactly what you’re missing.

Conclusion

Meeting CPA requirements doesn’t have to be a slog. With the right courses, you can hit that 150-hour mark, ace the CPA Exam, and snag your US CPA license in 2025. Whether you choose self-paced affordability at cpacredits.com, community college steals, or a master’s deep dive, the key is starting now. Every credit brings you closer to a career with higher pay, global respect, and endless opportunities.

Ready to get those credits rolling? Head to cpacredits.com for accredited, budget-friendly courses tailored for CPA hopefuls. Register today and take control of your CPA journey!