Is CPA Knowledge Essentials mandatory?
CPA Knowledge Essentials is not mandatory. It is designed to support preparation for the Knowledge Assessment and for entry into the CPA Professional Program. Learners who already meet prerequisite requirements through recognized academic pathways may not require CPA Knowledge Essentials.
Does completing CPA Knowledge Essentials guarantee I will pass the Knowledge Assessment?
No. CPA Knowledge Essentials supports preparation and readiness but does not guarantee success on the Knowledge Assessment.
How long will CPA Knowledge Essentials take?
This depends on your prior education, knowledge, and engagement with the program. Most learners are expected to work toward readiness within either a six-month or twelve-month subscription period.
How many hours per week should I expect to study while enrolled in CPA Knowledge Essentials?
CPA Knowledge Essentials is designed so learners can work through all the resources within 12 months by spending 15-20 hours per week. Learners who spend more time weekly, or who join CPA Knowledge Essentials with some foundational business and accounting knowledge, can get through the resources faster. Sample timelines based on education background and study availability can be found on our website here
Can I extend my access if I am not able to complete CPA Knowledge Essentials within the self-paced course length I originally selected?
Yes. Learners may purchase a 6-month extension if they need additional time.
I initially selected 6 months; can I switch to 12-months?
Learners who initially selected a 6-month course length and find that more time is required may purchase a 6-month extension.
Can I work full-time and complete CPA Knowledge Essentials?
Yes. Learners can work through CPA Knowledge Essentials on a part-time basis or full-time basis. Learners should select the appropriate self-paced course length based on prior education, learning needs, content engagement and pace of study.
Do I need to meet any admission requirements to take CPA Knowledge Essentials?
CPA Knowledge Essentials does not have specific admission requirements; it is available to any learner who wants to strengthen their business and accounting knowledge. However, learners should be aware that they need to meet the CPA Professional Program admission requirements (either conditionally or fully) to register for the Knowledge Assessment, including degree, credit hour, and GPA requirements.
I’m currently enrolled in the CPA preparatory courses. Can I take CPA Knowledge Essentials?
The CPA preparatory courses are offered through December 2027 and are a great option for those seeking an exemption from the Knowledge Assessment by completing the necessary accounting and business knowledge requirement through coursework.
Applicants who would prefer to write the Knowledge Assessment and would like to cover any knowledge gaps beforehand can choose to enroll in CPA Knowledge Essentials.
Do I need to pay annual dues to register in CPA Knowledge Essentials?
No. Annual dues are not required while registered in CPA Knowledge Essentials.
Does CPA Knowledge Essentials include instructor support?
Yes. Those enrolled in CPA Knowledge Essentials will have access to instructors supporting each topic area. Instructors will be available through discussion boards, email through the official learning platform, or through office hours.
What happens if I don’t pass the Knowledge Assessment?
If you don’t pass the Knowledge Assessment, you can review your areas of weakness, return to the relevant CPA Knowledge Essentials learning content, and use the practice and assessment resources to prepare for another attempt at the KA. Your CPA Knowledge Essentials subscription may continue to provide access to learning materials and exam preparation resources, depending on the length of your subscription.
Learners unsuccessful on the KA can also look at completing key accounting courses at a PSI to remediate knowledge gaps.
Learners who attempt the KA more than once should be aware that a third fail of the Knowledge Assessment means learners must wait one year before attempting the assessment again.
What happens after I pass the Knowledge Assessment?
Passing the Knowledge Assessment demonstrates that you have met the knowledge requirements assessed by the KA. You can then proceed with registration into the CPA Professional Program, subject to meeting any outstanding admission requirements as identified on your program eligibility assessment.
Can I enroll in CPA Knowledge Essentials even if I do not plan to write the Knowledge Assessment?
Yes. CPA Knowledge Essentials is available to learners who wish to strengthen their business and accounting knowledge, even if they do not plan on pursuing the CPA designation or do not currently meet the admission requirements to write the KA or register for the CPA Professional Program.
I need to meet the accounting and business knowledge requirement; should I take CPA Knowledge Essentials to prepare for the KA, or should I complete the required credit hours through coursework?
To meet the accounting and business knowledge requirement, learners must either pass the knowledge assessment or be exempt by completing 45 credit hours of accounting and business coursework. Your CPA ASB Eligibility Assessment results indicate how many of the 45 accounting and business credits you currently have outstanding, so you can compare the cost of timing of completing these courses externally.