Accounting Scholars Leadership Workshop

What to Expect

Participants will participate in learning sessions and panel discussions covering a wide array of topics such as developing leadership skills and the CPA exam. Participants will also have the opportunity to interact with CPA professionals who will share priceless knowledge regarding career opportunities in accounting and the value of networking.

"It was such an amazing experience. I met people from all over the United States that are my friends now. Without the program, I wouldn't have met all these wonderful people. I have learned so much on how to achieve my goal of becoming a CPA through this program.”

~ Program Participant

“What I got out of this conference was confidence, friends, possible mentors, advice, direction, guidance, networking opportunities, excitement, and a great deal of fun. Again, this was by far the best conference I’ve attended, and was well thought out and well executed from beginning to end.” ~  Program Participant

“I gained a strong professional network of motivated accounting professionals and students. The program met and far exceeded my expectations. I learned valuable skills on how to manage my finances, maximize my social media presence to build my brand, leverage my network, and more information on the various careers in accounting." ~ Program participant

“All the speakers made a great impact. Helped me to develop my communication and professional skills. Made me a more effective leader in my school and Internship. Listening to the speakers' life & CPA journey encouraged me to keep on pursuing excellence in my CPA journey. Learned about essential networking skills that I thought I had but opened my eyes to see them in a different way.” ~ Program participant

“The impact was amazing. I left a different person than who I was when I arrived because of the knowledge I obtained during all the workshops and the inspiring people I met. The whole experience was unprecedented. It was one of the best things I have been to. Thank you to everyone involved. I am beyond grateful!” ~ Program participant

The AICPA Foundation covers the cost of student attendees’ transportation to/from the workshop location, hotel accommodations, training experience, and meals.

Program Requirements

Eligible applicants must:

• Be a declared accounting major, or have interest in joining the accounting profession
• Be a college freshman, sophomore, junior, senior, 5th year, or graduate student
• Be actively involved in campus and community activities
• Have not attended a past workshop
• Be an ethnic minority (i.e., Black or African American; Hispanic or Latino; Native American; or Asian, etc.)
• Be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident (green card holder)
• Be a Student Affiliate Member of the AICPA
• Be able to provide the name and email address of two references who have agreed to provide a recommendation on your behalf. The reference must be from a faculty member.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to attend this event?
So glad you asked! The application period will open for the 2022 program from April 15, 2022 until June 15, 2022 at 11:59 pm ET.

If I am graduating in spring/summer 2022, may I still attend the workshop?
Yes; this is an ideal program for recent graduates. This workshop benefits attendees by strengthening networking and communication skills to prepare workplace leaders.

If I have attended a past AICPA Accounting Scholars Leadership Workshop, may I come back?
To enable as many students as possible to have this experience, students who have attended a previous workshop may not attend.

What if I have another obligation (class, work) at the same time as the workshop and still want to attend?
Students are required to attend the workshop for the duration of the entire event. If requested, AICPA will provide your employer or teacher with a letter regarding the content and benefit of your participation in this program.

May I attend if I am already a CPA?
No, those persons who are already CPAs are not eligible to attend as participants.

I am ready to apply what type of information or documentation do I need to have prepared to submit an application that is review ready?In addition to the above eligibility requirements you will also need the following; unofficial transcripts, two letters of recommendation (at least one must be either a faculty member  or a licensed CPA), a video where you answer the provided questions (up to two minutes) OR written essay.

How do I learn more about the Leadership Workshop and other AICPA diversity programs?
Contact us at diversity@aicpa.org with any questions.