Adding CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Exam Scores on a Resume

Crafting the perfect resume is like solving a complex puzzle, it’s all about knowing which pieces fit where. For aspiring Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), deciding if CPA exam scores belong on the resume can feel like a make-or-break decision, especially in such a competitive industry.

Last update:
01/01/2024
Adding CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Exam Scores on a Resume

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This article dives into when showcasing those scores works in your favor and when it’s better to leave them off. You’ll also get practical tips for formatting your resume and learn how to make your CPA qualifications shine, ensuring you stand out to hiring managers who are ready to pounce on top talent.

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How to List CPA on Your Resume


Your CPA credentials are a badge of honor, and listing them correctly can set you apart. Here’s how to feature them effectively:

1. Include "CPA" After Your Name

One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to highlight your CPA certification is by placing “CPA” next to your name at the top of your resume. This placement immediately communicates your qualifications to hiring managers before they even dive into the details.

Example:

Jordan Taylor, CPA

2. Create a Certifications Section

Dedicate a section of your resume specifically to certifications or professional licenses. Use this area to highlight your CPA status and provide additional details, such as the state of licensure or license number if applicable.

Example:

Certifications

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Active License
  • State of Licensure: New York

3. Mention CPA Exam Progress (If Not Licensed Yet)

If you’re still in the process of obtaining your CPA license, highlight your exam progress to show employers your commitment to becoming certified. Include the sections you’ve passed and any upcoming exam dates.

Example:

  • “CPA Exam: Passed all four sections, license pending.”
  • “CPA Exam Candidate: Passed Auditing (95) and Regulation (89) sections.”

4. Add CPA Scores Strategically

If you scored exceptionally well on your CPA exams or passed all sections on your first attempt, include this information to enhance your qualifications. This is especially helpful for entry-level candidates who may not yet have extensive work experience.

Example:

“CPA Exam: Passed all sections, average score 92.”

5. Tie CPA Into Work Experience

Your CPA expertise shouldn’t just live in the certifications section. Demonstrate how you’ve applied your CPA knowledge to deliver results in your work experience. This is particularly important for mid-level and senior professionals.

Example:

“Utilized CPA-level expertise to streamline tax processes, saving $100K annually.”

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How to Write a Winning CPA Resume


Your CPA resume serves as your first impression for hiring managers, so it needs to highlight your credentials, skills, and achievements effectively. If you're a licensed CPA or still working toward certification, your resume should present a clear career narrative that emphasizes your qualifications and aligns with the job description. Below, we break down actionable tips for creating a standout CPA resume, complete with tailored examples for different career stages.

1. Summarize Your CPA Qualifications in a Professional Profile

The professional profile section is your elevator pitch, a concise snapshot that tells hiring managers why you’re the perfect candidate. This section should pack a punch by highlighting your CPA status (licensed or in-progress), top achievements, and key skills.

This is often the first section hiring managers read, and it can determine whether they keep reading your resume. A strong profile grabs attention immediately and communicates your most valuable qualifications.

Senior-Level Example:

"Certified Public Accountant with 10+ years of experience in corporate finance and tax compliance. Successfully led teams to reduce compliance errors by 30% and implemented tax strategies saving $150K annually. Skilled in GAAP compliance, risk management, and advanced accounting software such as SAP and QuickBooks."

Entry-Level Example:

"CPA candidate with three exam sections passed and hands-on experience in financial reporting and tax preparation. Proficient in Excel (pivot tables, macros), QuickBooks, and risk analysis, with a proven ability to meet deadlines in high-pressure environments."

Medium shot smiley woman sitting at desk

2. Back Up Your Profile with Results-Driven Work Experience

The work experience section is where you demonstrate the real-world application of your CPA skills. It’s your chance to prove that you can deliver value by showcasing measurable achievements tied to specific CPA-relevant skills.

Employers want to see tangible results, not just a list of responsibilities. This section allows you to highlight the impact you’ve had in previous roles, be it through saving costs, improving processes, or ensuring compliance.

Steps:

  • Begin each bullet with an action verb, such as "Led," "Implemented," or "Streamlined."
  • Quantify achievements when possible (e.g., "Saved $50K annually," or "Improved audit efficiency by 20%").
  • Link your accomplishments to CPA-relevant skills like financial reporting, audit compliance, or tax planning.

Mid-Level Example

Senior Financial Analyst – ABC Corporation (June 2018–Present)

  • Reduced tax liabilities by $200K annually through innovative financial planning.
  • Streamlined audit processes, cutting timelines by 15%.
  • Ensured 100% compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards across departments.

Entry-Level Example

Accounting Intern – XYZ Financial Services (Jan 2022–May 2022)

  • Prepared financial statements and reconciliations for client portfolios, improving accuracy by 15%.
  • Assisted in tax preparation, identifying $30K in annual savings for clients.
  • Supported internal audit procedures, reducing discrepancies by 10%.

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3. Include Certified Public Accountant Credentials

Your CPA credentials are one of the most critical elements of your resume, and they need to stand out. This section ensures that hiring managers can easily spot your certification and understand your progress toward licensure if you’re still working on it.

Employers in accounting and finance value certifications like CPA above almost everything else. A clear and prominent certifications section instantly communicates your professional qualifications.

How to Structure It:

  • Title this section "Certifications" or "Professional Licenses."
  • Include details like your licensure status, state of licensure, and any additional certifications (e.g., CMA, Certified Fraud Examiner).
  • For CPA candidates, include your exam progress and testing dates for any remaining sections.

Example for Licensed CPA

Certifications
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Active License, State of California

Example for CPA Candidate

Certifications
CPA Exam: Passed FAR, AUD, and BEC; Testing for REG on 12/15/2024

4. Highlight Relevant Education and Coursework

For recent graduates or entry-level candidates, the education section is an excellent place to tie your academic background to your CPA progress. Highlighting relevant coursework can also help reinforce your technical knowledge.

Early-career candidates may lack professional experience, so education becomes a focal point. Linking your CPA exam progress to your degree demonstrates initiative and dedication to becoming a CPA.

Example for Entry-Level Candidate

Bachelor of Science in Accounting – State University (May 2023)

  • Relevant Coursework: Financial Reporting, Auditing Principles, Advanced Taxation
  • CPA Exam Progress: Passed all four sections, license pending.

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5. Showcase Key Skills and Proficiencies

A skills section can help your resume stand out, especially if it includes keywords that align with the job description. Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific terms, so this section is essential for getting past automated filters.

Hiring managers and ATS systems look for relevant technical and soft skills that match the role. This section provides a quick overview of your capabilities and shows how you can meet the job’s demands.

Key Skills and Proficiencies:

  • Financial Reporting | Tax Preparation | Risk Management
  • Accounting Software: QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle Financials
  • Advanced Excel (pivot tables, macros) | Internal Auditing | Budget Analysis

Examples for Different Career Stages


Here’s how to tailor your resume based on your career level:

Entry-Level Example

Profile:
"CPA candidate with two exam sections passed and strong academic foundation in financial analysis and tax preparation. Skilled in QuickBooks and compliance tracking, with internship experience preparing financial statements and performing reconciliations."

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Accounting – State University (May 2023)
Relevant Coursework: Auditing Principles, Taxation, Managerial Accounting

Certifications:

CPA Exam Progress: Passed BEC and FAR; Testing for AUD on 2/15/2024


A woman using a laptop to manage financial documents, with cash, a calculator, and reports on the desk.

Mid-Level Example

Profile:
"Certified Public Accountant with 7+ years of experience in corporate finance and tax compliance. Led teams to reduce tax liabilities by $200K annually and improved audit efficiency by 20%. Proficient in SAP, QuickBooks, and GAAP compliance."

Certifications:

Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Active License, State of California

Work Experience:

Senior Tax Analyst – XYZ Corporation (June 2016–Present)

  • Streamlined audit processes, cutting timelines by 15%.
  • Prepared complex corporate tax filings, ensuring 100% regulatory compliance.

Career Changer Example

Profile:
"CPA candidate transitioning from financial analysis to public accounting. Passed three CPA exam sections, leveraging experience in budgeting and forecasting to develop strong analytical and compliance skills."

Certifications:
CPA Exam: Passed BEC, FAR, and AUD; Testing for REG scheduled 3/15/2024

A smiling woman standing in front of a whiteboard, wearing a black top, conveying confidence and professionalism, possibly during a presentation or interview.

Student Applying for an Internship

For students seeking internships, even partial CPA exam progress can make a strong impression.

Example:

Education

Bachelor of Science in Accounting, University of Florida, Expected May 2024
CPA Exam: Passed AUD and FAR; Testing for REG on 3/20/2024

Certifications

  • Beta Alpha Psi Member
  • Candidate for CPA License

Relevant Coursework

Advanced Taxation, Internal Auditing, Financial Statement Analysis


Why CPA Exam Scores Are Important


Including CPA exam scores on your resume can significantly boost your chances, especially for roles that require accounting expertise and a strong foundation in financial principles. Here’s why:

  • Showcase Technical Expertise: CPA scores highlight your mastery of financial reporting, audit procedures, and tax preparation, showcasing your readiness for technical roles.
  • Demonstrate Dedication and Discipline: Passing the CPA exam, especially on the first attempt, reflects your ability to handle tight deadlines and high-pressure situations, skills critical for financial planning and risk management.
  • Bridge Experience Gaps: For entry-level candidates, strong scores can compensate for limited experience, proving you’re equipped to handle audit efficiency and ensure financial accuracy.
  • Stand Out in Competitive Fields: High scores make you a standout candidate for roles like auditing, financial analysis, and internal controls, demonstrating your potential to succeed in complex, detail-driven environments.
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When and Why to Skip CPA Exam Scores


Sometimes, it’s better to leave CPA exam scores off your resume. For licensed CPAs with extensive experience, professional achievements like improving financial processes or leading audits carry more weight than exam results, so it’s best to focus on those accomplishments. Similarly, if your scores are average or just passing, they won’t add much value.

Instead, emphasize certifications, technical skills, or measurable achievements, such as ensuring compliance or uncovering cost savings. Finally, if the role prioritizes leadership or strategic management over technical expertise, highlight skills like collaboration, project management, or team leadership. Skipping scores in these scenarios allows you to keep the focus on what’s most relevant to the job.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your CPA Resume


Steer clear of these common pitfalls to ensure your CPA resume shines:

  • Including Salary Requirements: Save salary discussions for the interview; focus your resume on your qualifications and skills.
  • Grammatical or Spelling Errors: Mistakes reflect poorly on your attention to detail. Proofread carefully or have a colleague review your resume.
  • Wordy Descriptions: Keep statements concise and impactful. Highlight achievements in a one-page resume.
  • Irrelevant Details: Focus on relevant experience, certifications, and skills. Leave off unrelated roles or unnecessary personal information.
 A man and a woman in a professional setting reviewing documents and financial reports together.

Leveraging Your CPA Credentials in Networking


Your CPA credentials can open doors, but networking effectively requires strategy. Here’s how to make them work for you:

1. Maximize Your LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first place recruiters and potential employers look. Add “CPA” to your headline and showcase key achievements in your “About” section to make your profile stand out.

Example Headline:

Taylor Morgan, CPA | Audit & Risk Management Specialist

2. Engage in Professional Communities

Join LinkedIn groups, local CPA societies, or online forums where accounting professionals gather. Actively participating in these communities allows you to build relationships, share knowledge, and stay updated on industry trends.

3. Attend Networking Events

Use your CPA certification as a conversation starter during industry events, conferences, or workshops. Highlight your achievements in a concise pitch to showcase your expertise.

Example Pitch:

“I’m Taylor Morgan, a CPA specializing in audit efficiency. I recently led a project that streamlined processes, saving $75K annually.”

4. Volunteer Your Expertise

Offer to mentor aspiring CPAs, host workshops, or contribute to professional panels. This not only demonstrates leadership but also builds meaningful connections with other professionals.

5. Highlight CPA Accomplishments

When discussing your qualifications, tie your CPA credential to specific achievements to make a stronger impact.

“As a CPA, I’ve implemented risk strategies that saved clients hundreds of thousands annually."

A woman in a blue blouse sitting at a desk, focused on using a tablet, suggesting remote work, online job searching, or resume writing.

Example of a CPA Candidate Resume


Alex Morgan, CPA Candidate
alex.morgan@email.com | (555) 123-4567 | linkedin.com/in/alexmorgan

Objective

CPA candidate with two exam sections passed and a solid foundation in financial reporting, auditing, and corporate strategy. Seeking an opportunity to leverage advanced skills in SAP, financial planning, and compliance in a dynamic accounting or auditing role.

Certifications

  • CPA Exam Candidate: Passed BEC and AUD; Testing for FAR scheduled on 3/15/2024
  • Member, Accounting Society of America

Work Experience

JKL Financial Solutions, Audit Assistant
August 2022–Present
Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

  • Conducted internal audits, identifying inefficiencies and increasing accuracy by 25%.
  • Prepared compliance documentation, maintaining a 100% regulatory approval rate.
  • Advised management on budget improvements and implemented strategies to improve financial accuracy.

Green & Co., Accounting Intern
January 2021–May 2022
Key Qualifications & Responsibilities

  • Developed Excel-based financial models for budgeting, improving forecasting accuracy by 15%.
  • Assisted with tax preparation, saving $20K annually through strategic deductions.
  • Supported financial reconciliations and ensured compliance with reporting standards.

Additional Financial Responsibilities

  • Managed financial records in SAP, ensuring timely updates and accuracy.
  • Advised leadership on investment strategies and financial decision-making.
  • Analyzed and corrected budget errors using advanced Excel tools, including automation.

Education

City University
Bachelor of Science in Accounting, May 2022
Relevant Coursework: Advanced Auditing, Managerial Accounting, Taxation Principles

Key Skills

  • Accounting Software: SAP, QuickBooks, Sage
  • Data Analysis: Advanced Excel (pivot tables, automation, macros)
  • Compliance and Strategy: Risk Mitigation, Internal Auditing, Investment Advisory
  • Financial Reporting: GAAP Compliance, Budget Analysis

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can CPA candidates highlight their progress without a license?

CPA candidates should emphasize progress by listing sections passed and upcoming exam dates under a "Certifications" or "Professional Development" section. This shows employers your commitment to licensure and readiness to meet the role’s requirements.

Do hiring managers care about CPA exam scores?

Yes, hiring managers value CPA exam scores, especially for entry-level roles. Strong scores show mastery of accounting principles and commitment to excellence. However, for more senior positions, work experience and real-world achievements matter more.

Should I include my CPA license number on my resume?

Including your CPA license number is optional but can be helpful for some employers, especially in highly regulated industries. If you include it, list it in the certifications section along with your state of licensure.

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