We examined whether an accounting internship influences CPA exam performance. Using 2005–2013 candidate data, we found that an internship is significantly related to CPA exam performance in the Auditing (AUD) section. We speculate that the internship’s observed positive effect for the AUD section and the lack of effect for the other three sections is because the audit section more closely reflects knowledge/skills acquired by interns than the other three exam sections. These results have implications for academics and candidates seeking to improve CPA exam performance. Our study also provides information for those considering incorporating an accounting internship into the curriculum
