The new pathways were designed to give candidates more flexibility in how they meet the requirements to become a CPA. Not every person’s journey looks the same, and we know that hands-on experience is one of the most powerful ways to learn and grow. By recognizing different ways to prepare, through coursework and professional experience, Illinois is making the CPA credential more accessible, inclusive, and sustainable. What hasn’t changed is the quality of the CPA license: every pathway still requires education, passing the CPA exam, and relevant work experience.