Accredited Business Accountant Certification: A 101 Guide

The Accredited Business Accountant (ABA) certification is a professional designation for accountants who have a proven track record of success in the field. To earn the ABA certification, you must pass an exam and meet certain experience and education requirements.

Why Accredited Business Accountant Certification Matters

The ABA certification is a valuable credential for accountants who want to advance their careers. It demonstrates your knowledge and skills in accounting, and it can help you stand out from other candidates for jobs and promotions.

According to the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), the median salary for accountants with the ABA certification is $75,000, which is 15% higher than the median salary for accountants without the certification.

In addition to higher salaries, accountants with the ABA certification are also more likely to be promoted to management positions. A study by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) found that 60% of ABA-certified accountants are in management positions, compared to only 40% of non-certified accountants.

How to Earn the Accredited Business Accountant Certification

To earn the ABA certification, you must pass the ABA exam and meet the experience and education requirements.

The ABA Exam

The ABA exam is a four-hour exam that covers a wide range of accounting topics. The exam is divided into three sections and cost $360.

• Section 1: Financial accounting and reporting (25%)
• Section 2: Auditing and attestation (30%)
• Section 3: Management accounting (45%)

To pass the ABA exam, you must score at least 75% on each section.

Experience and Education Requirements

To be eligible to take the ABA exam, you must have a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. You must also have three years of full-time accounting experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing for the ABA exam, it is important to avoid the following common mistakes:

• Not studying enough. The ABA exam is a difficult exam, and it is important to put in the time to study. Plan on spending at least 100 hours studying for the exam.
• Not practicing enough. In addition to studying, it is important to practice taking the ABA exam. There are many practice exams available online and in bookstores.
• Not getting enough sleep. Getting a good night's sleep is essential for performing well on the ABA exam. Make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep the night before the exam.
• Not eating a healthy breakfast. Eating a healthy breakfast will help you stay focused and energized during the exam.
• Not bringing a calculator. You will need a calculator for the ABA exam. Make sure to bring one that is approved by the AICPA.

Step-by-Step Approach to Earning the Accredited Business Accountant Certification

1. Earn a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field.
2. Gain three years of full-time accounting experience.
3. Apply to take the ABA exam.
4. Study for the ABA exam.
5. Take the ABA exam and pass all three sections with a score of at least 75%.
6. Maintain your ABA certification.

Conclusion

The ABA certification is a valuable credential for accountants who want to advance their careers. It demonstrates your knowledge and skills in accounting, and it can help you stand out from other candidates for jobs and promotions. If you are an accountant who is looking to take your career to the next level, the ABA certification is a great option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the ABA and CPA certifications?

The ABA and CPA certifications are both professional designations for accountants. However, the CPA certification is more widely recognized and is required for many accounting jobs. The ABA certification is a good option for accountants who are not interested in pursuing the CPA certification or who do not meet the requirements for the CPA certification.

How much does it cost to get the ABA certification?

The cost of getting the ABA certification is $360. This includes the cost of the exam and the application fee.

How long does it take to get the ABA certification?

It takes most people several months to prepare for and take the ABA exam. The amount of time it takes you to get the ABA certification will depend on your individual circumstances.

Is the ABA certification worth it?

The ABA certification is a valuable credential for accountants who want to advance their careers. It demonstrates your knowledge and skills in accounting, and it can help you stand out from other candidates for jobs and promotions.

Useful Tables

Table 1: Salary Comparison of ABA-Certified and Non-Certified Accountants

Table 2: Promotion Rates of ABA-Certified and Non-Certified Accountants

Table 3: ABA Exam Fees

Table 4: ABA Exam Passing Rates