FDU Ranks #1 in New Jersey

Fairleigh Dickinson University Leads the State in CPA Exam Pass Rates

a college student wears a blazer and leans on a table. behind her, there is a presentation with a pie chart.

March 2026 – Fairleigh Dickinson University students have achieved a remarkable distinction. According to a December 2025 report by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), FDU earned the #1 ranking in New Jersey for the highest percentage of students passing the Uniform CPA Examination, surpassing 13 other academic institutions across the state.

The CPA credential is one of the most respected and sought-after designations in the business world, opening doors to career advancement, higher compensation and professional flexibility. After completing a university degree in accounting, candidates sit for the rigorous four-part Uniform CPA Examination, which tests mastery of financial accounting and reporting, auditing, taxation, business law, and business analysis.

“This #1 ranking reflects the exceptional dedication of FDU’s accounting students and the outstanding commitment of its faculty,” said Jonathan Schiff, Ph.D., professor of accounting at Fairleigh Dickinson University. “It is a testament to the quality of FDU’s academic programs and the university’s mission to prepare graduates for success in an increasingly competitive professional landscape.”

The NASBA ranking is based on 2024 CPA Exam results for all New Jersey schools with 40 or more candidates, ensuring a statistically meaningful comparison across institutions.

Below is an abstract from a report published by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy in December 2025.

Schools	Pass Rate	# of Candidates
Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU)	55.1%	109
Rutgers – New Brunswick	53.3%	139
The College of New Jersey	50.6%	84
Rutgers – New Brunswick (2)	50.0%	51
William Patterson	48.0%	50
Stockton University	45.7%	41
Rutgers – Newark	39.9%	113
Kean University	39.4%	56
Seton Hall University	38.7%	100
Ramapo College	38.2%	76
Rowan University	36.0%	95
Montclair State University	34.5%	101
Monmouth University	32.7%	62
Rider University	20.9%	71