[Anonymous]

If you passed all CPA exams before graduation (it is allowed in my state, you need only 120 credits to sit for the exam, and 150 to get the license + 1 year of experience.), would you be overqualified for most entry-level Staff Accountant job in public or private?

[Nessie]

Congrats SA!

No, unless you have a number of years experience working in accounting in the field in which you are applying. I know of people who have many years of complementary experience…They have Series 7 stock trader license, for example, and are going to start in investment tax in the fall. They will start at the bottom like everyone else because they don't have previous tax experience. One year is a great start, but I would not say it makes you overqualified.

REG Aug 20/15: 88
AUD: Feb 29/16: 80
FAR: Jun 10/16: 80
BEC?

Becker self-study, Becker Final Review & NINJA MCQS

[jessica8926]

No, in public it is actually almost expected you have it done before you start working or at least done within a year of employment. I would assume in private it is the same or rather they would not think you are overqualified. Just because you have your CPA does not mean you have any work experience thus why I think most firms would not think you are overqualified.

AUD - 69, 77
REG - 74, 81
FAR - 75!
BEC - 71, 82

IL candidate!

Finally done (5/24/16)!! Yahooooooo!

[TheHoundThatRides]

BEC - 78 (August 2015)
FAR - 80 (November 2015)
AUD - 73, 67. (Ok I gotta confess I was even more lazy this time around)
REG - August 27th, 2016

[Anonymous]

Thanks all!

[Anonymous]

I don't think you would be overqualified for entry-level staff accountant job in public or private. The flip side of the coin is you may get the same salary offer as any other entry level staff accountants at that company.

Passing the exams is an accomplishment but you're not a CPA until you also have the education hours, the experience hours, and whatever else is required in your state.

[Missy]

Not overqualified but in industry there may be hesitation to hire you because of the perception that as soon as you get a better offer you'll bolt. Make sure if you interview to give the impression you want to work for the company long term, it doesn't commit you to anything. And remember you don't HAVE to put that you passed the exam on your resume unless you think it works in your favor.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[Author]

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