Certifications can be a powerful tool to show employers you know your stuff. However, not all certifications are created equal.

We've compiled a list of the most common certifications for accounting analysts. Not only will obtaining these certifications give you a leg up for job hunting, they will also increase your overall value.

5 Best Accounting Analyst Certifications

1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Certified Public Accountant candidates must pass a national exam certifiying that they are eligible to be licensed in the state(s) of their choosing. Information about state licensing requirements is made available in the Licensed Occupation tool.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? 
Certifying Website
Certified Public Accountant
Certifying Organization
American Institute of Certified...

2. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

The CMA (Certified Management Accountant) is the advanced professional certification specifically designed to measure the accounting and financial management skills that drive business performance.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 1 year(s)

3. Certified Resume Specialist: Accounting and Finance (CRS+AF)

The CDI Certified Industry Resume Specialist allows you to gain certification in your chosen industry.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? No
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? Every 5 year(s)
Certifying Organization
Career Directors International

4. International Accredited Business Accountant (IABA)

ACAT seeks to ensure that all accredited individuals possess both the theoretical knowledge and the practical knowledge necessary to be successful practitioners. For that reason, candidates for accreditation must satisfy an experience requirement before becoming fully credentialed: three years of related work experience, up to two of which may be satisfied through college credit. Related work experience includes verifiable experience in accounting, financial services, or other field requiring a practical and theoretical knowledge of the subject matter covered on the ACAT Comprehensive Examination for the International Accredited Business Accountant. Those who pass the exam but who have not met the experience requirement may market themselves as having passed the ACAT Comprehensive Examination for International Accredited Business Accountant, but are not entitled to use the IABA designation.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? No

5. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

The CFA charter is recognized as the definitive standard by which to measure the competence, integrity, and dedication of serious investment professionals.

Certification Details
  • More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
  • More than two years of work experience required? Yes
  • Oral or Written Exam Required? Yes
  • Renewal Required? 
Certifying Website
Chartered Financial Analyst
Certifying Organization
CFA Institute

What is the best certification for a Accounting Analyst?

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is most common among accounting analysts. This certification is awarded by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. The advanced certification is for more experienced employees as it often requires some work experience to acquire. To become a certified accounting analyst with Certified Public Accountant (CPA), you need to pass the exam. Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience. Renew certification every year.

What are Some of the Most In-Demand Certifications For Accounting Analysts?

We analyzed online job postings to determine the most commonly asked-for certifications. The most popular certification requirement is Certified Public Accountant. By holding this certification, you will gain a more-competitive resume that will look impressive to potential employers.

What Certifications Can Impact a Accounting Analyst Career and Salary?

Accounting analysts are most often promoted to an senior accountant position. A senior accountant average salary is $69,205 whereas accounting analysts make an average salary of $58,399. The Certified Public Accountant certification could help you to get a senior accountant position in your career path.

Best Certifications

Accounting analysts are most likely to hold a combination of the following certifications: Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and Certified Resume Specialist: Accounting and Finance (CRS+AF).

online courses for Accounting Analysts that you may like

If you are not ready to pass the certification program but still want to improve your skills, these online courses may help.

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