Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
How to Get a Certified Public Accountant License in the US with a Nigeria B.Sc. Accounting + ICAN
Timeline
6–18 months
Est. Cost
$3,000–$6,000
Credential Eval
Required
US Exam
CPA Exam
If you earned your B.Sc. Accounting + ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) qualification in Nigeria and want to work as a licensed certified public accountant in the United States, this guide covers the full pathway — from credential evaluation through state licensure.
Nigerian degrees from NUC-approved universities are evaluated by US credential services. Evaluators generally look for programs accredited by the relevant professional council. The process typically takes 6–18 months and costs between $3,000–$6,000, depending on the state you choose and your individual circumstances.
Your Nigeria Qualifications
- Degree Type
- B.Sc. Accounting + ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) qualification
- Regulatory Body
- Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN)
- Education System
- Follows the British-influenced 6-3-3-4 system. Bachelor's degrees are typically 4–5 years depending on the discipline.
- US Evaluation
- WES or ECE (with NASBA evaluation)
Nigerian accounting degrees are typically 4 years. The 150-hour requirement may necessitate additional coursework in the US.
Step-by-Step Pathway to US Licensure
Step 1: Credential Evaluation
Your B.Sc. Accounting + ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) qualification must be evaluated for US equivalency by WES or ECE (with NASBA evaluation). You will need official transcripts sent directly from your institution, your degree certificate, and license verification from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN).
World Education Services (WES)
General credential evaluation for international degrees — accepted by most US state boards and institutions
Step 2: English Proficiency
You will need to demonstrate English proficiency, typically through the TOEFL iBT (required by some states). Score requirements vary by state board and credential evaluation agency. Check with your target state for specific minimums.
Step 3: Additional Education (If Required)
Depending on your credential evaluation results, you may need to complete additional coursework to address gaps between your Nigeria education and US requirements. Nigerian accounting degrees are typically 4 years. The 150-hour requirement may necessitate additional coursework in the US.
Step 4: CPA Exam (Uniform CPA Examination)
All internationally educated certified public accountants must pass the CPA Exam (Uniform CPA Examination) to practice in the US. This is the same exam taken by US-educated graduates. Must meet state-specific education requirements (typically 150 credit hours). Many states require specific accounting coursework..
Step 5: State Application
Once you pass the exam and complete your credential evaluation, apply for licensure through the board in your chosen state. Each state has its own application process, fees, and timelines. See the destination states section below for direct links.
Step 6: Visa & Work Authorization
Common visa categories for Nigerian professionals include: H-1B, EB-2, EB-3. Eligibility and processing times vary by category and individual circumstances.
Note: Immigration law is complex and changes frequently. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for advice specific to your situation. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
Choose Your Destination State
Licensing requirements vary by state. Select a state below for a detailed breakdown of Nigerian certified public accountant requirements in that state.
Estimated Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Credential Evaluation | Varies |
| English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL iBT (required by some states)) | ~$200–$300 |
| CPA Exam Exam | Varies |
| State Licensure Application | Varies by state |
| Visa Application Filing Fees | $190–$460+ |
| Estimated Total | $3,000–$6,000 |
Costs are approximate and subject to change. Additional expenses may include document translation, courier fees, and immigration attorney fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Nigerian certified public accountant practice in the US?
Yes, but you must complete a credential evaluation, pass the CPA Exam (Uniform CPA Examination), and obtain a state license. The process typically takes 6–18 months.
How much does it cost for a Nigerian certified public accountant to get licensed in the US?
The estimated total cost ranges from $3,000–$6,000, covering credential evaluation, exam fees, and state application fees. Additional costs may include English proficiency testing and visa fees.
Is a B.Sc. Accounting + ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) qualification recognized in the United States?
A B.Sc. Accounting + ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) qualification from Nigeria is not automatically recognized but can be evaluated for US equivalency by WES or ECE (with NASBA evaluation). Nigerian accounting degrees are typically 4 years. The 150-hour requirement may necessitate additional coursework in the US.
Do I need to take the CPA Exam (Uniform CPA Examination) if I am already licensed in Nigeria?
Yes. Regardless of prior licensure or experience, all internationally educated certified public accountants must pass the CPA Exam (Uniform CPA Examination) to practice in the United States.
Which US states are easiest for Nigerian certified public accountants?
Requirements vary by state. Research individual state boards to compare application processes, fees, and any additional requirements for internationally educated applicants.
Related Resources
- Certified Public Accountant: International Licensing Guide — Overview for all countries
- International Credential Evaluation Guide — Credential evaluation for all professions
- Philippines-Trained Certified Public Accountant Guide
- India-Trained Certified Public Accountant Guide
- Mexico-Trained Certified Public Accountant Guide
- United Kingdom-Trained Certified Public Accountant Guide
Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.