Top Benefits of Earning Your CPA Certification: Why It Matters

When you apply for an accounting position with an MNC or a US-based company, your credentials are important. Add these three letters — CPA — to your resume, and suddenly, you’ve been upgraded from the ‘maybe’ pile to the top of the interview pile.Becoming a certified public accountant is a smart, strategic move for your career.

Companies view you as a knowledgeable, disciplined and driven candidate, geared up to tackle any accounting challenge that may arise. In return, you get a more lucrative salary, better job security, and an easier climb up the corporate financial ladder. This course is an investment in your future. It gives you the skills, confidence and credibility to make your mark in a competitive job market. During promotion time, CPAs are first in line to land leadership roles. They are always the top choice when upper management positions open up. Here are the top ten benefits of the CPA qualification and how it can impact your blossoming accounting career.

Everything you need to know about the CPA course is here.

Top 10 benefits of being a certified public accountant

1. Globally recognised professional credibility

There is no such thing as instant respect. Unless you are a CPA holder. The biggest MNCS, consulting firms, US-based corporations and global banks recognise CPA as a stamp of excellence and trust. They see you as a strong, competent professional who understands complex financial systems, follows strict ethical standards and complies with international regulations. It’s a bit like the bat signal. However, unlike Batman, you get to guard a company’s financial interests by day.

2. Great opportunities in US-based companies

The CPA license and US-based corporations are a match made in accounting heaven. As a certified public accountant, you have a serious edge over non-certified peers for job positions in US companies or firms with US clients. You are a perfect fit for accounting, auditing and financial management roles. You understand US accounting standards, tax laws and business practices. What’s more, you possess a high level of professionalism and reliability that companies value. It leads to incredible job opportunities and exciting career paths.

3. Work with Big 4 and global firms

What’s the biggest flex about being a certified public accountant? You are a shoo-in to work with the Big 4 — Deloitte, EY, KPMG and PwC. They are called the ‘Big 4’ for a good reason. With them, you get to work with the biggest global clients, handle complex projects and gain recognition and respect in the industry. You become a catch. Other companies know you have strong technical skills, ethical standards and deep expertise. And they are willing to pay top dollar to hire you.

How to get a job with the Big 4 accounting firms?

4. Increased earning potential

How would you like to earn 20 to 30 per cent higher salaries than your peers? As a certified public accountant, your designation not only demonstrates your expertise but also positions you for higher earning potential and greater career opportunities. You get to work with top global companies that recognise your worth. While the exact figures vary depending on the company, location, job profile and other factors, here are the average annual salaries across various experience levels

Entry-Level (0 – 3 years): Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs.

Mid-Level (4 – 7 years): Rs 10 lakhs to Rs 22 lakhs.

Senior-Level (8 – 15 years): Rs 25 lakhs to Rs 30+ lakhs.

Leadership positions (CFO, Director): Rs 35 lakhs to Rs 1 crore

5. Job security

A key advantage of becoming a CPA is the enhanced job security that the profession provides. Certified public accountants will always be in high demand. Irrespective of the economic climate, changes in corporate culture or emerging new technology. Every MNC or global company can benefit from the advanced financial expertise of a qualified CPA. The professionals also help to make informed business decisions and comply with international regulations. With India increasingly attracting foreign investment, the demand for qualified CPAs is on the rise. For those pursuing a reliable and future-proof career in finance, the CPA designation offers a clear competitive advantage.

6. Qualified to work across multiple industries

Want to work in finance? Healthcare? Retail? Technology? E-commerce? As a certified public accountant, you can work in a wide range of industries. Your qualification gives you the freedom to explore different career paths, pivot to better opportunities and transition between industries. You have the flexibility and credibility to be successful in any business.

7. Stay ahead of the industry through CPE

One of the requirements of the CPA license is the Continuing Professional Education (CPE). You are required to take courses and webinars to ensure you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in accounting. As a lifelong learner, you are always ahead of the curve. Your ongoing education ensures you adapt to new practices, technologies and regulations. Thanks to CPE, you never get obsolete.

Learn more about the CPE here.

8. Competitive edge in the job market

What do global businesses want? Accountants with a deep understanding of financial reporting, tax regulations and auditing. CPA professionals bring all of this and more to the table. They are trained to analyse complex financial data, support business decision making and ensure regulatory compliance. Many MNCs and US-based firms prefer hiring CPA professionals for these reasons, giving them a competitive edge during recruitment.

9. Boosts career advancement and promotions

Certified public accountants are generally first in line for promotions and leadership roles. Employers recognise CPAs as knowledgeable, trustworthy and capable. They are more than equipped to take on high-impact projects.

10. Shorter path compared to CA

One of the biggest advantages of pursuing a CPA over a chartered accountancy certification is the shorter duration. The CA journey can take up to 4 to 5 years, even more if you fail a paper. There is also the mandatory articleship to complete. However, the US CPA can often be completed within 18 to 24 months, and there is a one-to-two-year work experience requirement. If you want to start your career sooner, the CPA route is a great way to do it.

Should you pursue the CPA course after completing CA?

Exciting job profiles for CPAs in India

1. Financial Analyst (FP&A)

CPAs use their proficiency in financial planning & analysis (FP&A) to help companies understand their financial performance, forecast growth and guide strategic decisions. They are experts in interpreting complex financial data and creating clear strategic insights.

2. Audit and Assurance Manager

This is an important role for certified public accountants, especially if you work for Big 4 firms, global shared service centres, and Indian companies with cross-border operations.

You are qualified to lead audit teams, assess internal controls, and ensure compliance with international standards like GAAP or IFRS.

3. US Taxation Specialist

CPAs have in-depth knowledge about the US tax codes and regulations. This is very relevant when you work for a company in India that has US clients. You’ll be expected to work on corporate tax filings and provide advisory services.

4. Cost Analyst

CPAs are pros at cost analysis. They help companies optimise expenses, improve profitability and enhance efficiency. This role is especially crucial if you work in manufacturing, supply chain and service sectors.

5. International Accounting Specialist

CPAs are known for their expertise in US GAAP, IFRS, and SOX compliance. If you accept a position in this capacity, you’ll work on cross-border accounting, consolidations, and financial reporting for multinational operations.

6. Compliance and Risk Consultant

Certified public accountants can work as compliance and risk consultants with MNCs, global consulting firms and financial institutions. They help these organisations to navigate regulatory risks, conduct internal audits, and ensure ethical governance.

7. Forensic Accountant

CPAs with a penchant for solving problems are a perfect fit for this role. You analyse financial data to uncover financial fraud or irregularities and support legal proceedings with forensic audits. You’ll be working closely with legal teams.

Become a certified public accountant with Proschool

When it comes to the CPA course, IMS Proschool is your supportive partner from start to finish. One of India’s top coaching institutions, Proschool, has counselors, instructors and staff members who guide you through every step of the process, such as choosing the right US state board, ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements and registering for the exam. The institution also has industry experts who use active learning methods and innovative techniques to help students learn the syllabus. If you want to be a capable certified public accountant, Proschool will help you learn the tricks of the trade.

Why pick Proschool?

• Proschool is an official Becker partner, one of the best international interactive LMS platforms.
• You receive access to all the new learning material, practice questions, mock exams and other board-approved study materials.
• The online and offline classes are specially tailored for Indian students preparing for CPA exams.
• The staff provides mentorship, doubt-solving sessions and revision classes.
• You also receive guidance on state board selection, eligibility evaluation, exam registration and license application.
• Proschool’s placement portal connects students with incredible job opportunities with leading companies.

FAQs

What qualifications do I need to pursue the CPA?

You have to match the eligibility requirements set by your chosen US State Board of Accountancy. Most states have different conditions. As an Indian candidate, it is best to choose states such as Washington, Montana, Colorado or Guam, as their eligibility requirements are manageable.

Your eligibility depends on how many semester hours you have clocked. Some states will allow an individual with 120 semester credits to sit for the exam, but all states require 150 credits for CPA certification. To collect these credits, you need a Bachelor’s degree and a postgraduate course that specialises in accounting.

Do you qualify for the CPA course? Click here to find out.

Is CPA useful in India?

Absolutely! The demand for certified public accountants is at an all-time high. This is especially true with the rise of multinational companies, Big Four accounting firms, and outsourcing hubs that require expertise in US GAAP, international taxation and compliance standards. Professionals with a CPA are highly sought after for roles involving financial reporting, auditing, and risk management for US-based clients.

Which companies in India hire CPAs?

This is a long list, but we’ll try to limit it to the big global players.

Big Four firms: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG

Financial & Investment Firms: JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Barclays, HSBC

Shared Services & Captive Finance Centres: Bosch, Shell, Novartis, Philips, Schneider Electric

What is the average salary of a certified public accountant in India?

A CPA professional with experience would earn between Rs 10 lakhs and Rs 20 lakhs. The numbers would vary, depending on the company and job role.

Does CPA offer better salary growth than CA?

The answer will depend on your career goals, choice of industry and location. US CPA professionals earn higher salaries when they work for large MNCs, the Big Four and finance shared service centres. Chartered accountants benefit more when they work for auditing and tax firms and government organisations as they have signing authority in India, unlike CPA professionals.

Can I get a US CPA license while living in India?

Yes, you can apply to a US state of your choice and take the CPA exams, all while living in India. You must ensure you have the required credits and get your documents verified by an evaluation agency. Following that, you can select your chosen date and sit for the exams at any of the many Prometric centres across India. You do not have to travel to the US to obtain your license.

Conclusion

If you want to break into global finance, work with top MNCs or even apply to the Big 4 firms, the CPA certification can help you achieve your goals. As a certified public accountant, you have the expertise and knowledge to handle international accounting, US GAAP and complex financial reporting. The route may not be easy. The CPA course can be quite challenging. But once you reach your destination, you will realise that the program is totally worth it. You will be able to access better job profiles, higher salaries and even career opportunities abroad. So what are you waiting for? In just a few clicks, you can begin your CPA journey today.

Click here to learn more about Proschool’s CPA course.