Im looking to take the CPA EXAMS here in the states but would like to know if i qualify having had my degree from abroad.If i dont qualify what would be the best steps to take?
Not knowing more of the facts, it is unlikely you will be eligible to take the International Qualification Examination (IQEX). In general, the exam enables accountants from (certain) other countries who have comparable accounting education, experience and in some cases possess certification from a recognized body to obtain certification in the US.
There are 54 different offices in the U.S.A. to which you can send an application to become a U.S. CPA. Each of the 50 states issues its own CPA certificate, as do Washington D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
At the time of this writing, there are about 26 states do not require that you be a resident of the state or a U.S. citizen to earn a CPA certificate issued by that state – this link lists them: http://www.ais-cpa.com/outside.html#RESIDENT
In some states you can become a CPA with no employment time if you have a master’s degree. Some states will grant a CPA certificate with no experience, but require evidence of experience before a "permit to practice" is issued. If you just want a U.S. CPA certificate for your resume, you might investigate these states: http://www.ais-cpa.com/outside.html#EXPERIENCE
Most states have adopted a 150-university semester hour educational requirement. A few states require only a four-year university degree. Each state has specific requirements for evaluation of your transcripts, so you must pick a state before you can have your transcripts evaluated.
To get started, one must
(1) Hold a baccalaureate or higher degree from a recognized educational institution and present a valid transcript from that institution that shows degree credit for not fewer than 30 semester hours of accounting courses
The university on the following link is from a random Google search. The courses are similar to those I had to take when I sat for the CPA exam. The list is not comprehensive but it should give you an at least general idea. The accounting educational requirements are similar for most CPA candidates. For now, disregard the part that explains the 150-hour Master’s Degree requirement. Read the courses that are required along with the course descriptions – not the Internship part at the bottom.
http://www.stmarytx.edu/business/accounting/?go=list
There is a possibility you have taken similar courses in another country. If this is the case, it may be possible to receive credit for those courses and you may not have to repeat many of the comparable, basic courses.
***I am uncertain the advise you received from the organization who evaluated your education. The reliable source to evaluate your education is an academic counselor or an otherwise knowledgeable person. As previously mentioned, each state in the U.S. has specific requirements for evaluation of your transcripts, so you must pick a state before you can have your transcripts evaluated.********
A nearby college or university might help or you could contact the Board of Accountancy in the state you are interested. Most state boards have a site on the web that might be able to direct you. If you know the state in which you would like to apply, see the state boards. If you aren’t sure in which state to apply, http://www.ais-cpa.com/boards.html. If you are from another country http://www.ais-cpa.com/outside.html
Good luck 