College Students

Why Become a CPA?

Earning your CPA license takes commitment, but it opens the door to a career with strong growth, leadership opportunities and the chance to work across nearly every industry.

Today’s CPAs do more than prepare financial statements. They are problem-solvers, strategists and trusted advisors helping organizations make decisions, manage risk and plan for growth. From startups and tech companies to healthcare organizations and nonprofits, CPAs play a critical role in business success.

The CPA credential also boosts earning potential and expands career options. CPAs often take on greater responsibility, lead financial strategy and work closely with business leaders to guide major decisions.

Read stories from CPAs who once stood where you are today.

Your Path to Becoming a CPA in Texas

The path to becoming a CPA in Texas includes four key steps:

• Complete the required college education, including 150 credit hours
• Apply for and pass the Uniform CPA Exam
• Gain one year of supervised professional experience under a licensed CPA
• Apply for your CPA license through the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy

If you're studying accounting in college, you're already taking the first step.

Start Your CPA Journey in College

Studying accounting or planning to pursue your CPA license? TXCPA Student Membership helps you turn your classes into a clear path to licensure and a successful career.

Connect with professionals, explore the CPA Exam timeline and tap into tools and experiences that make your journey easier. With 28,000+ members and 20 chapters across Texas, you’ll join a statewide network of CPAs, firm leaders and fellow students ready to support your goals.

Best of all, student membership is completely free.

As a TXCPA student member, you can:

• Connect with CPAs, employers and peers at chapter events
• Access CPA Exam prep, mock exams and study guidance
• Apply for scholarships and recognition programs
• Build leadership skills through student programs and volunteering
• Explore internships, jobs and career paths in accounting
  

TXCPA is here to support you from your first accounting class through your first promotion. Join TXCPA as a student member and start building your professional network today.

Licensing Requirements:

• One year of supervised professional accounting experience
• Complete a 3-hour TSBPA-approved ethics course
• Pass the Rules of Professional Conduct exam
• File an application, take the CPA oath, and pay certification and licensing fees
• Demonstrate good moral character

Regulation Requirements in Texas

The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA) is the regulatory agency for public accounting in Texas. They manage CPA licensing, applications and exam approvals.

Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA)

505 E. Huntland Dr, Ste 380
Austin, TX 78752-3757
Telephone: 512-305-7800
TSBPA Qualifications/Exams:  512-305-7851 FAX: 512-305-7875
E-mail: exam@tsbpa.texas.gov
Visit the TSBPA exam/qualification Webpage.

What’s Next?

Ready to take the next step? Learn what it takes to start pursuing the CPA license in Texas and begin planning your path from college to career.

Learn About Pursuing the CPA

Meet Jasmine Mendoza, a graduate student at the University of Texas at Austin juggling classes, CPA prep and part-time jobs. Click the video to hear Jasmine’s full story and how an AcctoFi scholarship helped support her on her CPA journey.