The CPA Exam: Differences Between Philippines & USA

If you are an entrepreneur or business owner, chances are you have considered becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The CPA designation is globally recognized and can open doors to new opportunities.

​But what is the process of becoming a CPA? Is it different in different countries? Let's take a look at the similarities and differences between the CPA exam in the Philippines and the United States of America. 
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The first similarity between the two exams is that they are both administered by groups of state boards of accountancy. In the Philippines, the Board of Accountancy administers the exam while in the USA it is administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). 

Both exams consist of four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) and Regulation (REG). The AUD, FAR and REG sections are common to both exams while the BEC section is only found on the USA exam. 

Another similarity is that both exams are computer-based and are offered year-round. They can be taken at testing centers located throughout each country. 

Now let's look at some of the differences. Perhaps the most significant difference is the passing score. In order to pass the USA exam, candidates must receive a minimum score of 75 on each section while in Philippines, candidates need to pass all four sections with a bow of 50%. 

The time allotted to complete each section also differs. In the USA, candidates are given 4 hours to complete each section while in Philippines, they are given 3 hours for AUD, BEC and FAR sections and 2 hours for REG section. 

Lastly, another difference between these two exams is that Filipino candidates must complete 72 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) before taking their exam while there is no such requirement for candidates in USA. 


So, If you want to hire an outsourced accountant, you can see there's some differences, but not any huge scary differences between a Philippines v. USA Certified Public Accountant.  Both the USA and Philippines offer examinations that test similar content but there are also some key differences between them.

Be sure to do your research so that you can choose the right hire for your team. Or, just hire us to do your accounting work.

Have questions?  Contact us here.