NASBA and AICPA’s New Model Explained in Plain English

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What Every CFO, Financial Director, and Business Owner Needs to Know About the New CPA Pathway

Let’s face it — finding qualified accounting talent has become a near full-time job for CFOs and financial leaders. The pipeline is shrinking, the 150-hour rule has long been debated, and firms are feeling the squeeze. But now, there’s movement.

The AICPA and NASBA just approved a major update to CPA licensure that could shake up how your next hire earns their credentials — and it’s not just another bureaucratic memo. This change has real-world implications for your hiring strategy, compliance planning, and talent development.

Here’s what you need to know — in plain English.

What Changed?

The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) have officially approved updates to the Uniform Accountancy Act (UAA) — the model legislation used by states to regulate CPA licensure.

The headline change? A third pathway to becoming a CPA. This new option opens the door for candidates who:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree,
• Complete two years of supervised work experience, and
• Pass the CPA Exam.