Congratulations! Your name is on the PRC list of passers, and you are now officially a Certified Public Accountant. The grueling months of review, the sleepless nights, and the nerve-wracking exam days have all paid off. But as the celebration fades, a new question emerges: "What now?"
The first 90 days after passing the CPA board exam are crucial in setting the trajectory of your career. How you use this time can mean the difference between a strong career launch and months of uncertainty. This guide breaks down your first three months into actionable phases to help you hit the ground running.
The 90-Day Framework
Think of your first three months as a new CPA in three distinct phases:
Let us dive into each phase.
Days 1-30: Foundation Phase
Your first month is about completing mandatory requirements and establishing your professional foundation. These tasks are time-sensitive and non-negotiable.
Complete All Registration and Documentation
Your most urgent priority is completing PRC registration within 30 days of results release. Missing this deadline incurs penalties and delays your ability to practice.
Registration Checklist:
- Verify name on official PRC results
- Complete online registration at online.prc.gov.ph
- Pay registration fees (approximately PHP 1,830)
- Schedule and attend biometrics appointment
- Attend oath-taking ceremony (mandatory)
- Obtain Professional Tax Receipt (PTR) from your LGU
Pro Tip: Do not wait until the last week. PRC offices are crowded immediately after results release, and the online system may experience slowdowns.
Join Professional Organizations
Membership in professional organizations is not just about the certificate - it is about building your network from day one.
Philippine Institute of CPAs (PICPA)
PICPA is the PRC-accredited professional organization for CPAs. Membership benefits include:
- Free and discounted CPD seminars
- Job postings and career resources
- Networking events with experienced CPAs
- Access to industry publications
- Advocacy representation
Membership cost: PHP 1,000-2,500 depending on chapter
Other Organizations to Consider:
Set Up Your Professional Online Presence
In today's job market, your online presence is your first impression. Take time to build it properly.
LinkedIn Profile Optimization:
- Add "CPA" to your name field
- Write a compelling headline: "Certified Public Accountant | [Your Specialization Interest]"
- Add your PRC license to Certifications section
- Update your About section with career goals
- Connect with classmates, professors, and industry professionals
Professional Email:
If you are still using a casual email address, create a professional one. Format: [email protected] or similar.
Research Career Paths and Opportunities
Use this time to explore your options before jumping into job applications. The CPA credential opens multiple doors:
Major Career Tracks:
Career Insight: Do not choose based solely on salary. Consider training quality, work-life balance, growth trajectory, and alignment with your long-term goals.
Start Preparing Job Application Materials
Even if you are not applying yet, prepare your documents:
- Update your resume with CPA credential
- Request recommendation letters from professors and internship supervisors
- Gather academic records (TOR, diploma)
- Prepare a list of references
Days 31-60: Career Launch Phase
With your documentation complete and foundation set, month two is about actively launching your career.
Job Search Strategies for New CPAs
The Philippine job market for new CPAs is competitive but robust. Here is how to approach it strategically.
Top Job Search Channels:
Application Strategy:
- Targeted applications - Apply to 5-10 well-researched positions rather than 50 generic applications
- Customize each application - Tailor your cover letter to each company
- Follow up professionally - Send a polite follow-up email one week after applying
- Track your applications - Use a spreadsheet to monitor status
Top Employers for New CPAs in the Philippines
Big 4 Audit Firms:
Other Top Employers:
- Banking: BDO, BPI, Metrobank, BSP
- Conglomerates: Ayala Corporation, SM Investments, San Miguel Corporation, JG Summit
- BPO/Shared Services: Accenture, Cognizant, Shell Business Operations, Procter & Gamble
- Government: COA, BIR, SEC, DBM, BSP
Interview Tips for Accounting Roles
Accounting interviews typically include technical questions, behavioral assessments, and case studies.
Common Technical Questions:
- Explain the accounting cycle
- What are the differences between PFRS and tax accounting?
- Walk me through the audit process
- How do you handle discrepancies in financial statements?
- What are the key provisions of RA 9298?
Behavioral Questions to Prepare:
- Tell me about a time you worked under pressure
- Describe a situation where you found an error and how you handled it
- How do you prioritize multiple deadlines?
- Why did you choose accounting as a career?
Interview Preparation Tips:
- Research the company thoroughly - know their clients, recent news, and culture
- Review basic accounting concepts and standards
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer
- Practice with a friend or mentor
- Dress in professional business attire
Negotiating Your First CPA Salary
Many new CPAs accept the first offer without negotiation. While your leverage is limited as a fresh graduate, you should still advocate for yourself.
Salary Expectations by Role (Metro Manila, 2026):
Negotiation Tips:
- Know your market value - Research salary ranges on JobStreet and PayScale
- Emphasize your CPA - Not all candidates have passed; this differentiates you
- Consider total compensation - Benefits, training, and career path matter
- Be professional - State your expectation confidently but be open to discussion
- Get it in writing - Ensure agreed terms are in your employment contract
Note: Government salaries follow the Salary Standardization Law and are generally non-negotiable, but benefits and allowances vary by agency.
Understanding Different Career Tracks
Before accepting an offer, understand what each track entails:
Public Practice (Audit)
- Pros: Excellent training, diverse exposure, clear progression
- Cons: Long hours during busy season, high pressure
- Best for: Those seeking technical expertise and eventual partnership
Private Industry (Corporate)
- Pros: Better work-life balance, stable hours, good benefits
- Cons: Narrower exposure, may plateau without changes
- Best for: Those prioritizing stability and specialization
Government Service
- Pros: Job security, pension, public service contribution
- Cons: Lower salaries, bureaucratic environment
- Best for: Those valuing stability and public impact
BPO/Shared Services
- Pros: Higher entry salaries, modern work environment, global exposure
- Cons: Repetitive tasks, limited local networking
- Best for: Those interested in multinational experience
Building Your Professional Network
Networking is not about collecting business cards - it is about building genuine relationships.
Networking Strategies:
- Attend PICPA events - Chapter meetings, seminars, and conferences
- Reconnect with classmates - Your batchmates will be future colleagues and referrers
- Join alumni groups - Your university alumni network is valuable
- Find a mentor - Look for senior CPAs willing to guide you
- Be helpful - Offer value before asking for favors
Days 61-90: Growth Phase
By month three, you should be settling into your first role. Now focus on excelling and planning for the future.
Excelling in Your First Role
The first 90 days at a new job set the tone for your career at that organization.
First Month at Work:
- Learn systems, processes, and team dynamics
- Ask questions - no one expects you to know everything
- Take detailed notes during training
- Be punctual and reliable
- Observe workplace culture before suggesting changes
Common First-Job Mistakes to Avoid:
Finding Mentors in the Profession
A good mentor can accelerate your career by years. Here is how to find one:
Where to Find Mentors:
- Senior colleagues at work
- PICPA chapter officers
- University professors
- Alumni network
- LinkedIn connections
How to Approach a Potential Mentor:
- Build rapport first - do not immediately ask "Will you be my mentor?"
- Ask for specific advice on a topic they have expertise in
- Respect their time - be prepared and concise
- Follow through on their advice and report back
- Offer gratitude and reciprocate where possible
Starting CPD Credits Early
Do not wait until your license renewal is due to think about CPD credits.
CPD Requirements:
- 60 units per 3-year cycle (minimum)
- At least 36 units must be professional/technical
Easy Ways to Earn CPD Units Early:
Strategy: Attend 2-3 PICPA seminars in your first year. You will earn CPD units while networking with fellow CPAs.
Setting 1-Year and 5-Year Goals
Successful careers are built on intentional planning.
1-Year Goals (Examples):
- Master core responsibilities in current role
- Complete one professional certification module
- Build relationships with 10+ industry contacts
- Earn 20 CPD units
- Save first three months of emergency fund
5-Year Goals (Examples):
- Achieve supervisory/managerial position
- Complete advanced certification (CMA, CIA, or ACCA)
- Earn BOA accreditation (for public practice)
- Develop specialization area
- Build strong professional network of 100+ contacts
Continuing Education and Specializations
The CPA is your foundation. Additional certifications build specialized expertise.
Certifications to Consider:
Recommendation: Do not pursue multiple certifications at once. Choose based on your career direction and employer support.
Salary Expectations: Realistic Numbers for New CPAs
Based on 2026 market data from JobStreet, LinkedIn, and industry surveys:
Note: Figures represent base salary. Total compensation includes 13th month pay, bonuses, and benefits.
Your 90-Day Action Plan Checklist
Print this checklist and track your progress:
Days 1-30: Foundation
- Complete PRC registration and oath-taking
- Obtain PTR from LGU
- Join PICPA (local chapter)
- Set up professional LinkedIn profile
- Research career paths and target employers
- Update resume and prepare application materials
Days 31-60: Career Launch
- Apply to target positions (5-10 focused applications)
- Prepare for and attend interviews
- Negotiate and accept job offer
- Continue networking through PICPA events
- Connect with at least 20 new professionals on LinkedIn
Days 61-90: Growth
- Excel in first month at new job
- Identify potential mentor
- Attend first CPD seminar
- Set 1-year and 5-year career goals
- Research relevant certifications for your track
Your CPA Journey Has Just Begun
The CPA board exam was a significant milestone, but it was just the beginning. The professionals who thrive in this field are those who continue learning, building relationships, and pursuing excellence throughout their careers.
Your first 90 days set the foundation for decades of professional success. Use this time wisely - complete your requirements promptly, be strategic in your job search, and start building the habits and relationships that will define your career.
For those still preparing for the board exam, remember that this moment of opportunity awaits you. Our platform provides the AI-powered review tools, practice exams, and study plans you need to pass and join the CPA profession.
Start your free trial and take the first step toward your CPA career.
Sources
- PRC - Professional Regulation Commission - Registration requirements and procedures
- PICPA - Philippine Institute of CPAs - Membership and professional development
- RA 9298 - Philippine Accountancy Act of 2004 - CPA practice requirements
- RA 10912 - CPD Act of 2016 - Continuing education requirements
- JobStreet Philippines - Salary data and job market trends
- LinkedIn Salary Insights - Compensation benchmarks
Salary figures are estimates based on 2025-2026 market data and may vary based on company, location, experience, and individual negotiation. Last updated: February 2026.