CPA vs. CA — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 16, 2024
A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is a professional designation in the United States focusing on accounting and auditing standards, while a CA (Chartered Accountant) is an international designation with a broader focus on finance and business.
Difference Between CPA and CA
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A CPA, or Certified Public Accountant, is a designation specific to the United States. It requires passing the Uniform CPA Examination and meeting additional state-specific education and experience requirements. A CA, or Chartered Accountant, is an international designation recognized in many countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and India. The CA designation is granted by various professional bodies and requires completing rigorous education, exams, and practical experience.
CPAs primarily follow the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and are often involved in ensuring compliance with financial reporting standards in the United States. On the other hand, CAs typically follow International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or country-specific standards, which allows them to work in a more global context.
The scope of work for a CPA often centers around public accounting firms, corporations, and government entities, focusing on detailed financial record-keeping and reporting. Conversely, CAs frequently engage in strategic roles, offering advice on business operations, mergers and acquisitions, and financial planning.
While both CPAs and CAs must adhere to high ethical standards and continue their professional education, the regulatory environment for CPAs is more state-specific, whereas CAs adhere to guidelines set by their respective international bodies.
Both designations are highly respected and offer various career opportunities, but CPAs are more recognized in the United States, whereas CAs have a broader recognition in the Commonwealth countries and beyond.
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Comparison Chart
Region
Primarily United States
International (e.g., UK, Canada, Australia)
Regulatory Body
State Boards of Accountancy
Various national bodies (e.g., ICAEW, ICAI)
Exam
Uniform CPA Examination
Varies by country (e.g., ACA, CA exams)
Accounting Standards
GAAP
IFRS or country-specific standards
Typical Focus
Accounting, auditing, and taxation
Financial management, audit, and business advisory
Compare with Definitions
Cpa
A professional qualified to attest to the accuracy of financial statements.
The CPA signed off on our company's financial audit.
Ca
A designation requiring rigorous education, exams, and practical experience.
Becoming a CA involved years of study and hands-on training.
Cpa
A professional accountant licensed in the U.S. to provide accounting and auditing services.
John became a CPA to offer auditing services to local businesses.
Ca
A globally recognized accounting professional qualified to offer financial advice.
The CA provided strategic financial advice for the merger.
Cpa
An expert in U.S. tax laws and regulations.
A CPA helped me understand the new tax code changes.
Ca
An expert in international accounting standards like IFRS.
Our CA helped us transition to IFRS reporting.
Cpa
A professional designation that requires passing the Uniform CPA Exam.
After months of study, Sarah passed her CPA exam.
Ca
An accountant authorized by national bodies such as ICAEW or ICAI.
As a member of ICAEW, the CA follows strict ethical guidelines.
Cpa
An individual who meets state-specific education and experience requirements.
To maintain her license, the CPA completes 40 hours of continuing education annually.
Ca
A professional skilled in financial management and auditing.
The CA conducted a thorough audit of our financial statements.
Cpa
A certified public accountant; an accountant certified by the state.
Ca
The chemical symbol for calcium, the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust.
Cpa
An accountant who has passed certain examinations and met all other statutory and licensing requirements of a United States state to be certified by that state;
In addition to accounting and auditing, CPAs also prepare tax returns for individuals and corporations
Ca
A white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light; the fifth most abundant element in the earth's crust; an important component of most plants and animals
Ca
A state in the western United States on the Pacific; the 3rd largest state; known for earthquakes
Common Curiosities
What is a CA?
A CA is a Chartered Accountant, an international designation for accounting, financial management, and business advisory services.
What is a CPA?
A CPA is a Certified Public Accountant, a professional designation in the U.S. for accounting, auditing, and tax services.
Where is the CPA designation recognized?
The CPA designation is primarily recognized in the United States.
Which accounting standards do CPAs follow?
CPAs follow the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Where is the CA designation recognized?
The CA designation is recognized internationally, especially in Commonwealth countries.
Can a CA work in the U.S.?
CAs can work in the U.S., but they may need additional qualifications for certain roles.
What exams are required for CPA certification?
CPAs must pass the Uniform CPA Examination.
What is the primary focus of a CPA's work?
CPAs focus on accounting, auditing, and taxation.
What exams are required for CA certification?
CA certification exams vary by country but generally include rigorous financial and accounting exams.
Which accounting standards do CAs follow?
CAs typically follow International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) or country-specific standards.
What is the primary focus of a CA's work?
CAs focus on financial management, audit, and business advisory services.
Do CPAs need continuing education?
Yes, CPAs must complete continuing education to maintain their license.
Can a CPA work internationally?
While CPAs can work internationally, their designation is most recognized in the U.S.
Do CAs need continuing education?
Yes, CAs must complete continuing education to maintain their designation.
What kind of jobs can a CPA hold?
CPAs can work in public accounting firms, corporations, government entities, and more.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
