I. The Experience, Learn, and Earn (ELE) Program

The AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) and NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy) are introducing an innovative solution for students seeking a pathway to fulfill the 150 credit hours of education necessary for obtaining a CPA licensure. The newly launched program, called Experience, Learn and Earn (ELE) Pilot, offers students the opportunity to earn up to 30 educational credit hours while simultaneously working at a CPA firm and earning a living.

The ELE Pilot program was developed to address the challenges faced by aspiring CPAs who often struggle to meet the rigorous educational requirements while also juggling work responsibilities to support themselves financially. This integrated education and experience program aims to bridge this gap by combining meaningful online academic coursework with practical work experience.

Participants in the ELE program will have the advantage of not only fulfilling the educational requirements for CPA licensure but also gaining valuable real-world experience in the accounting field. By integrating online academic coursework with work experience, ELE offers a unique learning opportunity that allows students to enhance their knowledge and skills while actively applying them in a professional setting.

Through the ELE program, students will have the chance to earn educational credit hours while they are employed with a CPA firm. By doing so, they can gain practical experience, develop industry-specific skills, and expand their professional network while progressing towards their educational goals. This program provides a flexible learning format that enables students to balance their work and study commitments effectively.

By participating in the ELE program, students can benefit from the meaningful integration of academic coursework and work experience. This integration not only enhances their overall educational experience but also equips them with the necessary skills and competencies to excel in their accounting careers. The practical knowledge gained through hands-on work experience combined with theoretical understanding from online coursework lays a strong foundation for future success in the accounting profession.

Eligibility for the ELE program and the application process may vary, and interested students are encouraged to explore the specific requirements provided by the AICPA and NASBA. With the launch of the ELE Pilot program, the accounting profession is taking a significant step towards providing students with a valuable and comprehensive pathway to achieve their CPA licensure goals.

As the ELE program begins to pave the way for an integrated approach to education and experience, its success and impact on the accounting profession may lead to the expansion and adoption of similar programs in other regions or even in professions beyond accounting. The collaboration between the AICPA and NASBA in developing the ELE program showcases their commitment to support aspiring CPAs in their educational and professional pursuits.

II. Understanding the need for the ELE program

To obtain a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, aspiring accountants must meet specific educational requirements, which often include acquiring 150 credit hours of education. This requirement is put in place to ensure that individuals seeking CPA licensure have a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and related subjects.

The 150 credit hours requirement extends beyond the traditional four-year bachelor’s degree, posing a challenge for many students. Often, a typical bachelor’s degree only covers around 120 credit hours, leaving students with an additional 30 credit hours to complete. This hurdle often presents a significant barrier for those who wish to pursue a career as a CPA.

One of the primary challenges faced by students is the difficulty of meeting the educational requirement while simultaneously working to earn a living. Many accounting students hold part-time jobs or engage in internships to gain practical experience while pursuing their degrees. The need to balance work and education can make it arduous to find and allocate sufficient time for acquiring the remaining credit hours needed. This challenge often results in extended timelines or financial burdens for individuals striving to achieve their CPA licensure.

Additionally, the traditional methods of fulfilling the 150 credit hours requirement, such as enrolling in additional classes or earning a graduate degree, can be costly endeavors for students. The financial aspect further adds to the burden and may deter individuals from pursuing their CPA licensure goals due to limited financial resources.

Recognizing these challenges, the AICPA and NASBA have developed the Experience, Learn and Earn (ELE) program as a tailored solution to address the hurdle of meeting the 150 credit hours requirement. The ELE program offers a pathway for students to simultaneously earn educational credit hours while working at a CPA firm and earning a living.

By integrating online academic coursework with practical work experience, the ELE program provides flexibility and an opportunity for students to earn educational credit hours in a more efficient and manageable manner. This program seeks to address the challenges faced by students in meeting the educational requirement while also working to support themselves financially.

Overall, the need for the ELE program arises from the recognition of the difficulties faced by students in fulfilling the 150 credit hours requirement. By offering a unique approach that combines work experience and academic coursework, the ELE program provides a solution that allows aspiring CPAs to advance their education without compromising their financial stability or extending their timeline to licensure.

III. Overview of the ELE program

The Experience, Learn and Earn (ELE) program is an integrated education and experience initiative introduced by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). This program is designed to provide a solution for students seeking to fulfill the 150 credit hours of education required for CPA licensure while gaining practical work experience.

Through the ELE program, students have the opportunity to earn up to 30 educational credit hours while being employed with a CPA firm. The program is structured to enable students to simultaneously learn and work, making it a flexible and efficient pathway to meeting the educational requirements for CPA licensure.

Participants in the ELE program engage in online academic coursework, covering a range of accounting and related subjects. The coursework is carefully designed to align with the educational requirements for CPA licensure while integrating practical application and real-world scenarios.

To ensure the quality and standards of the program, the AICPA and NASBA work closely with participating CPA firms to establish guidelines and maintain the integrity of the educational experience. This collaboration helps to ensure that the ELE program provides students with a rigorous and valuable learning experience that aligns with the standards and expectations of the accounting profession.

For more information about the Experience, Learn and Earn (ELE) program, including eligibility requirements and application procedures, interested students can visit the official AICPA and NASBA websites:

These websites provide comprehensive details on the ELE program, enabling students to understand the program structure, benefits, and how to apply for this unique opportunity to earn educational credit hours while gaining practical experience in the accounting field.

The integration of online academic coursework within the ELE program provides students with a flexible learning format. Online courses allow students to study at their own pace and according to their own schedule, giving them the freedom to balance their education with work and other personal commitments. This flexibility enables students to customize their learning experience and tailor it to their individual needs, ensuring a more efficient and manageable pathway towards meeting the educational requirements for CPA licensure.

Furthermore, the ELE program encourages the development of professional networks and industry connections. By working at a CPA firm, students have the opportunity to interact with experienced accounting professionals, establishing valuable connections that can benefit their future careers. These interactions not only provide mentorship and guidance but also offer insights into the workings of the accounting profession and potential career pathways.

V. How the program works

The Experience, Learn and Earn (ELE) program follows a structured framework that integrates online academic coursework with work experience to provide students with a comprehensive educational and practical learning experience. This section will explain the key components of the program, including the structure, coursework, and requirements for participation.

  1. Structure and Components:
    The ELE program consists of a combination of online academic coursework and employment at a CPA firm. Students enrolled in the program balance their time between studying online and working in a professional accounting environment.

The program typically spans a specific duration, during which students complete a designated number of educational credit hours while gaining practical work experience. The exact duration may vary depending on individual circumstances and program requirements.

  1. Online Academic Coursework:
    Participants in the ELE program engage in online academic coursework, which is an integral component of the program. This coursework is designed to align with the educational requirements for CPA licensure and covers accounting and related subjects.
  2. Integration of Work Experience:
    The ELE program uniquely combines educational coursework with employment at a CPA firm, enabling students to gain valuable hands-on experience in the accounting profession. While studying online, students work alongside experienced professionals, engaging in real client work and developing their technical skills.
  3. Requirements and Guidelines:
    To participate in the ELE program, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and adhere to program guidelines set by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA).

Specific requirements may vary, but common prerequisites include being enrolled in an accredited educational institution, having completed a certain number of credit hours, and meeting GPA criteria. Additionally, students may need to secure employment at a CPA firm and obtain a signed agreement with the firm and their educational institution.

It is essential for participants to understand and follow the guidelines and regulations established by the AICPA and NASBA to ensure the integrity and quality of the program. These guidelines help maintain the standards and expectations of the accounting profession.

For detailed information about the structure, components, requirements, and guidelines of the ELE program, interested individuals can visit the official websites of the AICPA and NASBA:

In summary, the ELE program is structured to integrate online academic coursework with practical work experience to provide a comprehensive learning experience for students. By combining theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, the program helps individuals gain the necessary skills and experience to meet the educational requirements for CPA licensure while preparing them for successful careers in the accounting profession.

VI. Eligibility and Application Process

The Experience, Learn, and Earn (ELE) program offers aspiring CPAs a unique opportunity to combine their education with practical work experience. To participate in the program, individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria and go through an application process. This section will provide an overview of who is eligible to participate in the ELE program and outline the steps and requirements for applying.

  1. Eligibility:
    The specific eligibility criteria for the ELE program may vary depending on the requirements set by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). However, common eligibility factors include:
  • Enrolled in an accredited educational institution: Participants must be currently enrolled in an educational institution that is recognized and accredited in their jurisdiction. This ensures that students are pursuing a recognized accounting program that aligns with the educational requirements for CPA licensure.
  • Completed a certain number of credit hours: Many ELE programs require participants to have completed a specific number of credit hours before they are eligible to apply. The exact number of credit hours may differ, so it is important to check the program’s specific requirements.
  • Minimum GPA: Some ELE programs may have a minimum GPA requirement to ensure that applicants demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to their studies. The minimum GPA requirement may vary, so it is advisable to review the program guidelines for specific details.
  1. Application Process:
    The application process for the ELE program typically involves several steps and requires applicants to submit specific documents and information. The following is a general overview of the application process:
  • Research and gather information: Start by researching different ELE program providers and their specific requirements. Review the eligibility criteria, program structure, and benefits to determine if the program aligns with your goals and aspirations. Take note of important application deadlines and any additional requirements.
  • Prepare required documents: Gather all the necessary documents required for the application. This may include transcripts from your educational institution, a resume highlighting your academic achievements and any relevant work experience, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement explaining your motivation for participating in the ELE program.
  • Complete the application form: Fill out the application form provided by the ELE program provider. This form will ask for basic personal information, educational background, and other relevant details. Ensure that you provide accurate and up-to-date information.
  • Submit the application: Once all the required documents are prepared, submit your application within the specified deadlines. Some programs may have an online application portal, while others may require submission via email or regular mail.
  • Await notification: After submitting your application, patiently await a response from the ELE program provider. The review process may take some time, so be prepared to wait for a notification regarding your application status. In some cases, there may be additional steps such as interviews or assessments as part of the selection process.

VII. Limitations of the Program

While the Experience, Learn, and Earn (ELE) program offers valuable benefits, it is important to consider its limitations and drawbacks. Despite its effectiveness in combining education and work experience, the program may have certain limitations, such as:

  1. Availability: The ELE program may not be widely available in all regions or educational institutions. Limited program availability can restrict access for individuals interested in participating, particularly those residing in areas with fewer program providers.
  2. Limited Industry Exposure: Although the ELE program provides practical work experience within a CPA firm, this exposure may be limited to a specific sector or firm. Participants may miss out on the opportunity to gain broader industry exposure if their work experience is confined to a single organization or field.
  3. Competitive Application Process: The application process for the ELE program can be highly competitive. Limited program spots and the high number of aspiring CPAs applying for these positions can make it challenging for individuals to secure a place in the program.
  4. Potential Educational Constraints: Balancing a demanding work schedule alongside online coursework can be challenging. Participants may face time constraints and find it challenging to manage their workload, especially if they have other personal or professional commitments.
  5. Financial Considerations: Participating in the ELE program may involve additional costs for individuals. While some programs provide stipends or financial assistance, participants may still need to cover expenses such as tuition fees, textbooks, transportation, and accommodation during the program duration.
  6. Program Length: The duration of the ELE program varies, and some individuals may find it difficult to commit to the program’s time requirements. Balancing work responsibilities and educational coursework over an extended period can be demanding and may not be suitable for everyone’s circumstances.
  7. Upfront Employment Requirement: The ELE program generally requires participants to secure employment at a CPA firm before enrolling. This upfront employment requirement can pose challenges for individuals with limited job opportunities in the accounting field or those seeking work experience while pursuing their education.
  8. Limited Course Offerings: Currently the ELE program is not offering accounting courses and other courses needed by many candidates to fulfill their state board educational requirements.

For students who are looking to fulfill their CPA education requirements and who need other courses than what the ELE offers, cpacredits.com offers another pathway with several advantages:

  1. Self-paced courses that begin the 1st of every month that can be completed flexibly and efficiently
  2. All the courses needed for licensure by all state boards are offered.
  3. Courses are priced at $675 for 3 credit courses
  4. Students only need to take the courses they need – and no others.
  5. All courses are provided through a regionally accredited college partner and are accepted by all state boards.

Understanding the limitations and drawbacks of the ELE program allows individuals to make informed decisions and consider alternative options if necessary. It is advisable to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks based on personal circumstances and career goals before committing to the program.

In summary, for some people who meet the eligibility criteria of the ELE, this pathway is a good option for fulfilling the 150 credit requirement. For everyone else, cpacredits.com offers the best solution to fulfill the CPA education requirements.