Obtaining the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential is a prestigious achievement that requires meeting stringent CPA exam requirements in Wyoming. The process involves fulfilling specific educational criteria, paying exam fees, and navigating the scheduling and testing procedures. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Wyoming CPA exam requirements, including education, exam fees, scheduling details, and tips for exam preparation.
CPA Exam Requirements Wyoming – Overview | |
Educational Hours Required for Exam | 150 Semester Hours |
Educational Hours Required for Licensure | 150 Semester Hours |
Residency Required | legal residency of Wyoming |
Degree Required | Bachelor’s or Master’s |
Minimum Age | 18 |
Application Fee | $110.00 |
Additional Requirements | Wyoming Board of Accountancy Site |
Wyoming CPA Exam Education Requirements
Before you can sit for the CPA exam in Wyoming, you must meet certain educational qualifications. The state has established criteria to ensure that all candidates have a solid foundation in accounting and business.
- Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree or Higher
To qualify for the CPA exam in Wyoming, you must hold at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. This degree lays the groundwork for the advanced accounting concepts covered on the exam. - Complete 24 Semester Hours in Accounting Courses
You need to have completed at least 24 semester hours of accounting-related coursework. These courses should cover essential topics such as financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting. - Complete 24 Semester Hours in Business Courses
In addition to accounting courses, candidates are required to complete 24 semester hours of business courses. Business law, finance, economics, and management are examples of acceptable courses that fulfill this requirement. - Internship Credit
Up to 6 semester hours of internship credit can be counted toward the accounting or business subject requirements. Internships provide practical, hands-on experience that can complement your formal education.
Wyoming CPA Exam Fees
To sit for the CPA exam, candidates must pay various fees. These costs include an initial application fee, re-examination fees, and fees for each section of the CPA exam.
- Initial Application Fee: $110
This one-time fee is required when applying to take the CPA exam for the first time. - Re-Examination Fee: $50
If you need to retake any exam sections, a $50 re-examination fee will apply.
CPA Exam Section Fees:
Each section of the CPA exam has its own fee, and you can choose to take one or more sections at a time. The fees per section are as follows:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD): $224.99
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC): $224.99
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR): $224.99
- Regulation (REG): $224.99
Scheduling the CPA Exam in Wyoming
Once your application is approved, you will receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS). This document allows you to schedule your exam and is valid for either one testing event or six months, whichever comes first. It is essential to schedule your exam as soon as possible after receiving your NTS to secure your preferred testing location, date, and time.
- Receive Your NTS
The NTS will list the specific exam section(s) you are approved to take, along with the deadline for scheduling. You cannot book an exam appointment without a valid NTS. - Schedule Your Exam with Prometric
Candidates must schedule their exam through Prometric, either online at www.prometric.com/CPA or by calling 1-800-580-9648. Keep in mind that scheduling is done on a first-come, first-served basis, so schedule as early as possible to get your preferred appointment. - Rolling Testing Availability
The CPA exam is offered on a rolling basis, meaning there are no blackout dates or testing windows. However, appointments must be made at least 6 days before the exam date.
Preparing for the CPA Exam
Passing the CPA exam is a challenging task, with an average pass rate of about 50% for any given section. Thorough preparation is essential for success.
- Invest in a CPA Review Course
Most successful candidates use a CPA review course to prepare. Courses like Becker, Surgent, or Roger CPA Review provide comprehensive materials, including video lectures, textbooks, and practice questions. - Create a Study Schedule
Plan your study time around your work and other commitments. Consistency is key, so set aside regular time each week dedicated to studying. - Focus on Your Weak Areas
Adaptive learning software included in many review courses can help you identify your weak areas and focus your study efforts where they are needed most.
Wyoming CPA Exam Score Release
After completing each exam section, candidates can check their scores online. The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) releases scores periodically, and you can choose to have your scores mailed to you if preferred.
Additional Tips for Uniform CPA Examination Success
Successfully passing the CPA exam requires a strategic approach to financial planning and a thorough understanding of the requirements. Here are some additional tips to help you navigate the process:
- Understand the Difference Between Exam and Licensing Requirements
Wyoming’s CPA exam requirements are different from the licensing requirements. While the exam requires meeting educational criteria and passing all four exam sections, becoming a licensed CPA may involve additional requirements such as work experience and ethics exams. - Stay Informed on Changes to CPA Exam Regulations
CPA exam regulations may change periodically, so stay up-to-date with the Wyoming Board of Accountancy for the latest requirements. - Consider Timing Your Exams Strategically
If you have a busy period at work, plan your exams during less demanding times. Avoid scheduling more than one exam section in close succession if you have a full-time job. - Take Advantage of NASBA’s Resources
NASBA’s website provides valuable resources, including a sample test and a candidate bulletin that outlines the exam process in detail. Familiarize yourself with these materials to avoid surprises.
Wyoming CPA Requirements
In addition to passing all four sections of the CPA exam, obtaining a CPA license in Wyoming requires meeting specific licensing requirements. Candidates must complete at least 1,000 hours of supervised accounting experience, which must be gained under the direct supervision of a licensed CPA. This experience can be in public accounting, industry, government, or academia, as long as it includes duties related to accounting, auditing, or tax. Additionally, candidates must pass the AICPA Ethics Exam, a self-study course and exam designed to ensure a strong understanding of ethical standards in the profession. Finally, applicants need to meet Wyoming’s continuing professional education (CPE) requirements to maintain their license once granted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the educational requirements for the CPA exam in Wyoming?
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher, 24 semester hours in accounting courses, and 24 semester hours in business courses. Up to 6 semester hours of internship credit may count toward the accounting or business requirements.
How much does it cost to take the CPA exam in Wyoming?
The initial application fee is $110, with a $50 re-examination fee. Each exam section costs $224.99, totaling $899.96 if taking all four sections.
What happens if I fail a section of the CPA exam?
If you fail a section, you can reapply to retake it, but you must pay the $50 re-examination fee in addition to the exam section fee. It’s advisable to review your weak areas before retaking the exam.
How can I schedule my CPA exam?
After receiving your NTS, you can schedule your exam with Prometric either online or by phone. Make sure to schedule your appointment early for the best chance at securing your preferred time and location.
Conclusion
Meeting the Wyoming CPA exam requirements is the first step toward earning your CPA license. By understanding the educational criteria, exam fees, scheduling process, and preparation strategies, you can navigate the journey to CPA certification with confidence. Use this guide to plan your approach, stay informed, and focus on effective exam preparation. Becoming a CPA is an investment in your professional future that can lead to new career opportunities and increased earning potential.
Additional Information
While we do our best to keep all of this information up to date you are welcome to visit and or contact that Wyoming Board of Accountancy with any other questions you might have.
Wyoming State Board of Public Accountancy
Address: 325 West 18th Street, Suite 4 Cheyenne, WY 82002
Phone: (307) 777-7551
Email: [email protected]
Web: wyo.gov
Application form: Wyoming CPA Application Form