International Qualification Examination (IQEX)

What is the IQEX?

The International Qualification Examination (IQEX) is for accounting professionals who are members of non-U.S. professional associations that have entered into mutual recognition agreements recommended by the U.S. International Qualifications Appraisal Board (IQAB) on behalf of the U.S. accounting profession. IQAB is a joint body of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA).

The IQEX covers ethics, professional and legal responsibilities, business law and taxation related specifically to U.S. accounting practice. The IQEX exam is not a substitute for the U.S. CPA Examination, and is used only to test areas related specifically to accounting practice in the U.S. The IQEX currently uses an administration of the Uniform CPA Examination’s Regulation (REG) section. The content of the exam is outlined in the REG section of AICPA’s Uniform CPA Examination Blueprints. Task Based Simulations are included in the exam. IQEX candidates are expected to familiarize themselves with the format and navigation for these questions by visiting the CPA Exam Sample Tests & Features and Functionality Video found on the AICPA website for a walkthrough and authentic hands-on experience.

Before applying to take the IQEX, it is strongly recommended you familiarize yourself with the IQEX Candidate Guide and eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Requirements

We have established Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) with the following professional associations that enable you to qualify for the IQEX:
> CPA Australia
> Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ)
> CPA Canada (CPAC)
> Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI)
> CPA Ireland
> Instituto Mexicano de Contadores Publicos (IMCP)
> Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS)
> South African Institute of Chartered Accountants

If your professional credential institute is not listed and you want to be licensed as a CPA in the U.S., you will need to take the Uniform CPA Examination as a candidate of one of the 55 jurisdictions:
> Learn more about the Uniform CPA Exam
> Read about becoming a CPA
> Begin the CPA Exam Application Process

Fees

Eligibility Application

Before you can apply for the exam you must first be deemed eligible for the IQEX Exam. Your Evaluation Application will determine if you meet the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) requirements needed to take the IQEX Exam.

IQEX Application Fee is $255

Exam Section Application

Once you have been found eligible for the CPA Exam you may then apply for a specific exam section. You can only apply for one exam section per application. You are advised to only apply for the exam section if you are ready to take it. Your Notice to Schedule will be valid for a limited amount of time, and you must take the exam section listed on the NTS within this time frame or you will lose those fees paid.

IQEX Exam Section Fee is $630

Refund Policy

There is no provision for withdrawing from the examination and/or requesting an extension of your current Notice to Schedule (NTS). The examination fee is not refundable. If you have an extreme circumstance, you may request an NTS extension or a partial refund of your examination fee under specific circumstances utilizing the Exception to Policy Form.

Applicants with Disabilities

In accordance with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, examination administration accommodations are available, should you qualify. Please download the IQEX Testing Accommodations Request Form for more information.

For additional information, contact the ADA Manager at ada@nasba.org.

Wall Certificate

Showcase your achievement! After you have passed the International Qualification Examination, visit the NASBAstore to order an optional decorative wall certificate.