On Wednesday, May 20, the AICPA took a big step toward propelling the CPA profession into the future.
As a reminder, CPA Evolution is a joint effort of the AICPA and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) to design and implement a new approach to CPA licensure.
The goal is to transform the CPA licensure model to recognize the rapidly changing skills and competencies the practice of accounting requires today and will require in the future.
In January 2020, NASBA and the AICPA proposed a core + discipline model for CPA licensure.
In this proposed model, all candidates would be required to demonstrate knowledge of a strong core in accounting, auditing, tax, and technology. Then, each candidate would choose a discipline in which to demonstrate deeper skills and knowledge. Regardless of discipline, this model leads to full CPA licensure, with rights and privileges consistent with any other CPA. You can learn more about the proposed CPA licensure model at EvolutionOfCPA.org.
On May 20th, the AICPA’s Board of Directors recommended that the AICPA Council vote on a resolution supporting the CPA Evolution initiative. The council overwhelmingly voted in support of advancing the initiative.
Pending conversation in June at the NASBA regional meetings with state board of accountancy members, NASBA’s board of directors will consider a companion vote of support this summer. If that occurs, they will move forward with implementing the new licensure model, with the goal of launching a new CPA Exam by January 2024.
Originally published by the AICPA.