Future CPAs + Students
Your career starts here
Whether you’re already on the path to become a CPA or just exploring your options, this page is for you. Yes, becoming a CPA is challenging, but the rewards are huge. From networking events to scholarships — MTCPA has all the resources you need to get started. And if you can't find what you're looking for, give us a call.
Student Membership
Join MTCPA for free as a college sophomore or above, with membership lasting up to a year post-graduation. Student members enjoy specialized communications, free Annual Conference attendance, CPA Exam review discounts, scholarships at Montana universities, and free AICPA student affiliate membership.
What it takes to be a CPA
Okay, need a little more info on what it exactly takes to be a CPA? Check out details on colleges with accounting programs and earning the CPA designation.
Scholarships
Generously funded through contributions from members and private donors, each year MTCPA awards $1000s in scholarships to accounting majors at Montana universities. But you have to qualify to apply — find out if you do.
Student Resources
MTCPA provides our community of future CPAs with the resources needed to excel and perform at the highest levels.
Campus Ambassador Program
The MTCPA Campus Ambassador Program is a leadership opportunity for Montana college students to promote the accounting profession and MTCPA on their campuses.
CPA Evolution
The CPA Evolution initiative aims to transform the CPA licensure model to recognize the rapidly changing skills and competencies the practice of accounting requires today and will require in the future. It is a joint effort of the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).
Student Board Representative
The MTCPA Student Board Representative serves as the voice of Montana’s accounting students on the Montana Society of CPAs (MTCPA) Board of Directors. This unique leadership opportunity allows one selected student to gain firsthand experience in professional governance, network with CPA leaders, and help shape the future of the accounting profession in Montana.
This position must attend at least one board meeting between June and January, as well as MTCPA's Annual Conference in June (alternating locations; travel & per diem provided)
Current Student Representative
David Ritchey, Online Student (UNC Kenan-Flagler)
Term: 2025/2026
Past Student Representatives
Riley Nielsen, Montana State University
Term: 2020/2021
Berenise Esparza, University of Montana
Term: 2019/2020
Sara Schlepp, Montana State University
Term: 2018/2019
Amy Sexton, MSU-Billings
Term: 2017/2018
Michelle McDowell, Montana State University
Term: 2016/2017
Student News
Your Guide to Passing the CPA Exam
July 10, 2025
Tips, Tools, and Real Talk from MTCPA
Which College Degrees Have the Best ROI?
July 01, 2025
Going beyond a plan for smart student loan decisions, business-minded prospective students want to choose a field of study that will help them build a strong career with a high return on investment (ROI).
5 Best Practices for Becoming a CPA
June 25, 2025
No one looks back and says, “I wish I had delayed my CPA Exam.” Find someone who’s happy they did, and I’ll buy you a coffee. The CPA is your ticket to promotions, higher pay and job security.
It adds up: Montana State accounting student wins national scholarship
June 17, 2025
Miles Sumner, an accounting student at Montana State University, received a prestigious national scholarship this spring that will pay his way through graduate school.
Tracking CPA licensure paths: Removing the 150-hour-rule hurdle
April 14, 2025
State changes to licensing rules are chipping away at a decades-old system that has largely required CPA candidates to complete what effectively amounts to a fifth year of schooling.
State CPA Societies Nationwide Inspire Thousands of Students to Explore a Career in Accounting
March 16, 2025
In November 2024, thousands of CPA volunteers and high school students nationwide participated in presentations, activities and mentorship opportunities aimed at providing students a clear pathway to a rewarding profession.
Montana State accounting students helping people avoid fraud, digital scams
March 13, 2025
Last summer, when Montana State University graduate student Connor Green was spending time with family, he didn’t expect his grandfather to receive a phone call he’d still think about five months later.
Be the Voice of Montana’s Accounting Students - Apply to be the MTCPA Student Board Representative!
March 07, 2025
Want to make an impact on the future of accounting in Montana? Apply to be the MTCPA Student Board Representative!
Real-world insights inspire students to become accountants
February 20, 2025
You know a career in accounting is dynamic and can encompass business strategy, data analytics, sustainability reporting, audit and assurance and so much more. Yet, the number-loving stereotype of the accountant still lingers.
MSU accounting students offer free tax help sessions in February and March
February 10, 2025
Montana State University accounting students are providing free tax preparation assistance later this month.