What's Happening?
The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) have announced the conclusion of the Experience, Learn and Earn (ELE) program, effective at the end of the fall 2025 semester. The ELE program was initiated to assist early-career accountants in meeting the 150-credit-hour requirement for CPA licensure at a reduced cost through Tulane University. The program, which offered courses at $150 per credit hour, will officially close on December 13, 2025. According to Sue Coffee, CEO of public accounting at the AICPA, the decision to sunset the program was influenced by changing market conditions and the emergence of new licensure pathways in several states, including Pennsylvania, New York, and Illinois. Liz Burkhalter, director of the CPA pipeline at the AICPA, noted that the program was initially designed to address regulatory changes and that many firms are now developing their own talent solutions.
Why It's Important?
The closure of the ELE program highlights the evolving landscape of CPA licensure and education. As states introduce more accessible pathways to licensure, the need for programs like ELE diminishes. This shift could impact the accounting profession by potentially lowering barriers to entry for aspiring CPAs, thus increasing the pool of qualified professionals. The decision also underscores the importance of adaptability in educational offerings, as firms increasingly create bespoke training programs to meet their specific needs. This trend may lead to a more diversified approach to CPA education, benefiting both firms and candidates by providing tailored solutions that address individual and organizational requirements.
What's Next?
With the ELE program concluding, stakeholders in the accounting industry may focus on developing alternative educational pathways and partnerships to support CPA candidates. Firms are likely to continue investing in in-house training programs or collaborations with educational institutions to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified professionals. Additionally, the AICPA and NASBA may explore new initiatives to support candidates in meeting licensure requirements, potentially leveraging technology and innovative learning models. The ongoing changes in licensure regulations across various states will also require continuous monitoring and adaptation by educational providers and candidates alike.
