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 United Kingdom Accounting degree + ACA/ACCA qualification
Timeline
4–12 months
Est. Cost
$2,500–$5,000
Credential Eval
Required
US Exam
CPA Exam
If you earned your Accounting degree + ACA/ACCA qualification in United Kingdom 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.
UK degrees from universities recognized by the relevant professional body are generally well-regarded by US credential evaluators. English proficiency exams are typically waived. The process typically takes 4–12 months and costs between $2,500–$5,000, depending on the state you choose and your individual circumstances.
Your United Kingdom Qualifications
- Degree Type
- Accounting degree + ACA/ACCA qualification
- Regulatory Body
- ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) / ACCA
- Education System
- Undergraduate degrees are typically 3 years (4 in Scotland). Professional degrees vary: medical (MBBS/MBChB) is 5–6 years, architecture is 7 years total (Part I, II, III).
- US Evaluation
- WES or ECE (with NASBA evaluation)
UK accounting degrees are 3 years. ACA/ACCA qualifications are well-regarded but US GAAP coursework may still be required. 150-hour rule applies.
Step-by-Step Pathway to US Licensure
Step 1: Credential Evaluation
Your Accounting degree + ACA/ACCA 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 ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) / ACCA.
World Education Services (WES)
General credential evaluation for international degrees — accepted by most US state boards and institutions
Step 2: Additional Education (If Required)
Depending on your credential evaluation results, you may need to complete additional coursework to address gaps between your United Kingdom education and US requirements. UK accounting degrees are 3 years. ACA/ACCA qualifications are well-regarded but US GAAP coursework may still be required. 150-hour rule applies.
Step 3: 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 4: 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 5: Visa & Work Authorization
Common visa categories for British professionals include: H-1B, E-2, L-1, O-1. 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 British certified public accountant requirements in that state.
Estimated Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Credential Evaluation | Varies |
| CPA Exam Exam | Varies |
| State Licensure Application | Varies by state |
| Visa Application Filing Fees | $190–$460+ |
| Estimated Total | $2,500–$5,000 |
Costs are approximate and subject to change. Additional expenses may include document translation, courier fees, and immigration attorney fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a British 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 4–12 months.
How much does it cost for a British certified public accountant to get licensed in the US?
The estimated total cost ranges from $2,500–$5,000, covering credential evaluation, exam fees, and state application fees. Additional costs may include English proficiency testing and visa fees.
Is a Accounting degree + ACA/ACCA qualification recognized in the United States?
A Accounting degree + ACA/ACCA qualification from United Kingdom is not automatically recognized but can be evaluated for US equivalency by WES or ECE (with NASBA evaluation). UK accounting degrees are 3 years. ACA/ACCA qualifications are well-regarded but US GAAP coursework may still be required. 150-hour rule applies.
Do I need to take the CPA Exam (Uniform CPA Examination) if I am already licensed in United Kingdom?
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 British 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
- Nigeria-Trained Certified Public Accountant Guide
- Mexico-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.