Certified Management Accountants (CMAs) in the Americas earn a median total compensation of $163K (INR 1.4K), which is 24% higher than their non-CMA counterparts. Additionally, CMAs globally earn 21% more in median total compensation compared to non-CMAs.
CMA in USA is a globally recognized certification that opens doors to high-paying roles in financial management and accounting. Certified Management Accountants (CMAs) in the USA earn a median total compensation of $163K (INR 1.4CR). To pursue CMA in USA in 2025, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria, including holding a bachelor’s degree, completing two years of relevant professional experience, and adhering to IMA’s ethical standards.
The syllabus is divided into two parts: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics (Part 1) and Strategic Financial Management (Part 2). This guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, syllabus, fees, exam dates, and registration process to help you prepare effectively for CMA USA in 2025.
The CMA in USA remains a popular choice for aspiring management accountants due to its high earning potential and flexible course duration. With an impressive pass rate of 45%, the course ensures that successful candidates are well-prepared for demanding roles.
Top career options like Financial Analyst and Chief Financial Officer offer annual salaries of $79K (INR 64.98L) and $200K (INR 1.64CR), respectively. Knowing these details will help you make a well-informed decision about pursuing CMA in USA in 2025.
Below, you'll find a table detailing key aspects of the CMA in USA for 2025.
Particulars
Details
Regulatory Body
Institute of Management Accountants, USA
Course Duration
Varies, 6 months to 3 years
CMA Testing Window Exam
May/June
Sep/Oct
Jan/Feb
Registration Deadlines
May/June: June 15
Sep/Oct: Oct 15
Jan/Fed: Feb 15
Exam Structure
Part 1:
100 MCQs – 4 hours
Two 30-minute Essays – 1 hour
Part 2:
100 MCQs – 4 hours
Two 30-minute Essays – 1 hour
Pass Rate
45%
Career Options after CMA
Financial Analyst: $79K (INR 64.98L)
Management Accountant: $100K (INR 82.28L)
Finance Manager: $100K (INR 82.28L)
Chief Financial Officer: $200K (INR 1.64CR)
Having understood these crucial aspects, it’s time to look at what it takes to be eligible for the CMA in USA in 2025.
Looking to explore more finance-related career options? Check out this detailed blog: MBA Finance Abroad- A Brief Guide for valuable insights.
Up next, you'll explore the eligibility requirements that will help you determine your readiness for this prestigious certification.
What's the Eligibility for CMA in USA 2025?
To earn the CMA USA certification in 2025, you must meet specific criteria related to education, experience, and ethical standards. Completing two continuous years of professional experience in management or financial management is essential for certification.
Understanding these requirements is crucial since many candidates struggle with fulfilling work experience criteria and adhering to IMA’s ethical standards. Missing any requirement can delay or hinder your certification process.
Below, you will find a detailed table outlining all eligibility requirements for CMA in USA 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
Description
IMA Membership
Maintain active membership with the IMA.
Education
Possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, or hold a related certification.
Professional Experience
Complete two continuous years of professional experience in management or financial management.
Examination
Successfully pass both Part 1 and Part 2 of the CMA exam.
Ethical Standards
Comply with the IMA Statement of Ethical Professional Practice.
Knowing the eligibility criteria is the first step. Up next, you will explore the course fees associated with CMA in USA in 2025, which is essential for proper financial planning.
CMA in USA: Course Fees in 2025
The fees for CMA in USA in 2025 vary significantly depending on your membership status. Professional members need to pay an entrance fee of $300 (INR 24,684) while students or academic members are charged $225 (INR 18,513).
Below, you will find a comprehensive table detailing the fees associated with CMA in USA in 2025 for both professional and student members.
Particular
Professional Members
Student/Academic Members
Entrance Fees
$300 (INR 24,684)
$225 (INR 18,513)
Exam Fee (per part)
$495 (INR 40,752)
$370 (INR 30,467)
IMA Membership Fee
$295 (INR 24,283)
$49 (INR 4,032)/$160 (INR 13,166)
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
Next, you will explore the scholarships available for CMA in USA, which can significantly reduce your financial burden.
Scholarships for CMA in USA
Securing a scholarship can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing the CMA in USA. The IMA Student Scholarship, for instance, covers the entrance fee and exam fees for both parts of the CMA exam, allowing you to complete the program at no cost.
Additionally, recipients receive two years of IMA Student membership, providing access to valuable resources and networking opportunities. Understanding these scholarships will help you take full advantage of the financial support available.
Below, you'll find a table detailing the key scholarships offered for CMA in USA candidates:
Scholarship Name
Eligibility Criteria
Benefits
Application Deadline
IMA Student Scholarship
Nominated by professor from IMA-endorsed or partner school
Covers CMA entrance fee, exam fees for both parts, and two years of IMA Student membership
September 1 – June 30
IMA Century Scholarship Award
Undergraduate senior or graduate student from IMA-endorsed school or active IMA chapter
$7,500 (INR 6.4L) award plus CMA Scholarship
March 29, 2025
Stuart Cameron & Margaret McLeod Memorial Scholarship (SCMS)
Graduate or undergraduate student meeting specific criteria
Financial award (amount varies)
March 15, 2025
CMA Doctoral Scholarship Program
Candidates in accredited doctoral accounting program focusing on management accounting
Next, you'll learn about the detailed syllabus for CMA in USA, helping you understand the topics and weightages for each exam part.
With the fee structure & scholarships in place, your next step is to stay informed about key CMA USA exam dates and registration deadlines in 2025.
CMA in USA 2025: Exam Dates
Knowing the exam dates is essential for planning your CMA preparation effectively. With three testing windows each year, you have the flexibility to choose the most suitable period for attempting the exams.
Below is a detailed table outlining the testing windows and registration deadlines for CMA in USA 2025.
Testing Window
First Exam Date
Last Exam Date
Registration Deadline
May/June
May 1
June 30
June 15
Sep/Oct
Sept 1
Oct 31
Oct 15
Jan/Feb
Jan 1
Feb 28
Feb 15
Now that you know the important dates, it's time to explore the syllabus for CMA in USA. This will help you identify key areas to focus on for effective preparation.
What is the Syllabus for CMA in USA?
The CMA in USA syllabus is divided into two parts, covering essential topics in financial planning and strategic management. Part 1 emphasizes Performance Management and Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting, each contributing 20% to the exam.
Part 2, on the other hand, prioritizes Decision Analysis and Financial Statement Analysis with 25% and 20% weightage respectively. Knowing these areas of focus will help you allocate study time effectively and enhance your preparation.
Below, you'll find detailed tables outlining the syllabus for CMA in USA for both Part 1 and Part 2. Reviewing these weightages will help you prioritize your preparation accordingly.
Part 1 (Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics):
Preparing for Part 1 requires a strategic approach. Focus on high-weightage topics like Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting (20%) and Performance Management (20%). Break your study schedule into manageable sections and revise regularly for better retention.
Below is a detailed table outlining the topics and their weightages for Part 1 of the CMA exam.
Topic
Weightage
External Financial Reporting Decisions
15%
Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting
20%
Performance Management
20%
Cost Management
15%
Internal Controls
15%
Technology and Analytics
15%
Once you are familiar with the topics covered in Part 1, it’s time to understand the areas of focus for Part 2.
Part 2 (Strategic Financial Management):
For Part 2, prioritize Decision Analysis (25%) and Financial Statement Analysis (20%). Practicing case studies and real-world scenarios will enhance your decision-making skills and improve your chances of scoring well.
Below is a detailed table outlining the topics and their weightages for Part 2 of the CMA exam.
Now that you understand the syllabus breakdown, it's time to learn how to register for the CMA in USA. The following section will walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
How to Register for CMA in USA: Step-by-Step Process
Registering for the CMA USA certification involves a defined set of steps to confirm your eligibility and secure your exam schedule. The flexibility to take the two exam parts in any order helps you plan based on your strengths and availability.
Below are the steps to register for the CMA in USA:
Step 1: Join IMA and Enroll in the CMA Program: First, become a member of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). Once your membership is active, enroll in the CMA program by purchasing the CMA entrance fee.
Step 2: Register for the CMA Exams: Once enrolled, register for either Part 1, Part 2, or both CMA exams. You can take them in any order. The exams are available during three testing windows each year:
January–February
May–June
September–October
Step 3: Schedule Your Exam Appointment: Upon registration, you'll receive an authorization number. Use this to schedule your exam appointment with Prometric, the testing partner, at a convenient location and time within your chosen testing window.
Step 4: Prepare for the Exams: Use study resources from IMA or other providers like Wiley or Becker. These may include practice exams, flashcards, and video lectures. It’s recommended to devote 150–170 hours per exam part.
After scheduling your exams, it’s time to focus on completing the remaining requirements to earn your CMA USA designation. The following section will guide you through the steps to achieve your CMA designation.
How to Get CMA Certification?
Earning the CMA certification requires completing specific steps to validate your expertise in management accounting. Notably, you must pass both parts of the CMA exam within three years of entering the program.
To achieve CMA certification, follow these steps:
Step 1: Join IMA and Enroll in the CMA Program: Become an IMA member and pay the entrance fee to enroll in the CMA program.
Step 2: Register for CMA Exams: Pass both Part 1 and Part 2 of the CMA exam within a maximum of three years from enrollment. You can take them in any order.
Step 3: Complete Certification Requirements: Fulfill the following criteria to complete your certification:
Education: Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (can be completed before or within 7 years of passing the exam).
Work Experience: Gain two continuous years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management (can be before or within 7 years after passing the exam).
Step 4: Comply with Ethical Standards: All CMA candidates must adhere to the IMA Statement of Ethical Professional Practice. This includes integrity, objectivity, and professional competence.
The following section will provide strategies and resources to help you succeed in your CMA preparation.
How to Prepare for CMA in USA?
Preparing for the CMA in USA requires strategic planning and disciplined study. Focusing on the right areas can significantly improve your chances of passing both exam parts.
Below are some effective ways to prepare for the CMA in USA:
Create a Study Plan: Develop a realistic study schedule that covers all exam topics thoroughly. Break down the syllabus into manageable sections and allocate time for each.
Use Official Study Materials: Rely on official resources like practice questions, sample papers, and mock exams to familiarize yourself with the exam format.
Focus on High-Weightage Areas: Prioritize topics with higher weightage, such as Decision Analysis (25%) and Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting (20%) for better scoring potential.
Practice Time Management: While studying, practice solving questions within a limited time to improve speed and accuracy during the actual exams.
Revise Regularly: Regular revision is essential for retaining important concepts and formulas. Set aside dedicated time for review sessions.
Join Study Groups: Engaging with peers can help you clear doubts, exchange study tips, and stay motivated throughout your preparation.
Attempt Mock Exams: Practice with full-length mock exams to gauge your preparation level and identify areas needing improvement.
Once you are well-prepared, it’s time to explore the promising career opportunities that await you after completing the CMA in USA.
Career Opportunities after CMA in USA
CMA in USA opens doors to high-paying roles in financial management and accounting. Notably, positions like Finance Manager and Management Accountant offer annual average salaries of $100K (INR 82.28L).
Moreover, top-level roles such as Chief Financial Officer can earn up to $200K (INR 1.64CR) annually. Knowing these opportunities helps you set clear career goals.
Below, you'll find a detailed table highlighting various career options after CMA in USA, along with their average salaries.
Role
Annual Average Salary ($)
Annual Average Salary (INR)
Financial Analyst
$79K
INR 64.98L
Cost Accountant
$96K
INR 78.99L
Accounting Manager
$97K
INR 79.81L
Management Accountant
$100K
INR 82.28L
Finance Manager
$100K
INR 82.28L
Chief Financial Officer
$200K
INR 1.64CR
Source: Glassdoor
Note: The currency conversion is based on the current exchange rate.
After learning about these impressive opportunities, it’s important to identify the top recruiters hiring CMA professionals in the USA. The next section will guide you through the prominent employers seeking certified candidates.
Top Recruiters for CMA in USA
Leading companies across industries actively hire CMA USA-certified professionals for roles in strategic finance, accounting, and business analysis.
Global names like Amazon, J.P. Morgan, and Deloitte offer positions that value the CMA credential. Exploring these employers can help you align your job search with high-impact opportunities.
Below is a table highlighting prominent companies known to hire CMA-certified professionals.
Company
Industry
Amazon
E-commerce & Technology
J.P. Morgan
Financial Services
Deloitte
Accounting & Consulting
Accenture
Professional Services
Johnson & Johnson
Healthcare
Wipro
IT & Consulting
Grant Thornton
Accounting & Advisory
Invesco
Investment Management
Genpact
Professional Services
American Express
Financial Services
These companies offer attractive roles to CMA-certified professionals, ensuring excellent career growth and exposure.
Now, it's essential to compare CMA in USA with CMA in India to understand the key differences and make an informed decision.
CMA in USA vs India: What's the difference?
If you're trying to choose between CMA USA and CMA India, it's essential to understand how they differ in global reach, exam structure, and career outcomes.
CMA USA is globally recognised and tailored for professionals aiming for international roles in finance and management accounting.
On the other hand, CMA India is primarily suited for those who wish to build their career within India's regulatory framework.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide:
Particular
CMA in USA
CMA in India
Regulatory Body
Institute of Management Accountants
Institute of Cost Accountants of India
Scope
Global
Within India only
Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree required (can appear during UG)
Starts after 12th (Foundation Level)
Duration
Varies, 6 months to 3 years
Varies, 3 to 5 years
Course Structure
Part 1, Part 2
Foundation, Intermediate, Articleship, Finals
Minimum Marks Required to Qualify
360 out of 500 (per part)
50% or above overall, 40% or above in individual subjects
Once you understand these differences, you’ll be in a better position to choose a certification that matches your career goals. The next step is to understand how upGrad can support you in preparing effectively for the CMA role.
How Can upGrad Help You in Preparing for the CMA Role?
If you're planning to pursue the CMA USA certification, upGrad offers end-to-end support tailored to your goals.
From expert mentorship to structured learning plans, every step of your preparation is guided to help you stay on track and clear the exams confidently.
Here’s how upGrad helps you prepare effectively for the CMA USA exam:
1:1 Mentorship and Guidance: Connect with industry experts who offer insights into CMA preparation, exam strategies, and career opportunities in the USA.
Structured Learning Modules: Access well-organized study materials, mock tests, and practical exercises designed to enhance your understanding of CMA topics.
Exam Preparation Support: Receive targeted advice on tackling high-weightage areas and improving your performance through regular assessments.
Dedicated Documentation Assistance: Get advisory support for completing enrollment, registration, and meeting eligibility requirements seamlessly.
Can I pursue CMA USA through distance learning in India?
Yes, CMA USA is designed for flexible, self-paced learning. You can pursue CMA USA from India through distance learning. You can prepare online using study materials and take your exams at authorized Prometric Test Centers located in cities like Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Gurgaon, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Trivandrum. Exams are conducted during the official testing windows.
Is CMA in USA better than India in terms of salaries?
Yes, on average, CMAs in the USA tend to earn more than those in India, but the gap depends on role, industry, and experience. In the USA, CMAs earn an average annual salary of approximately $163K (INR 1.4CR). In contrast, CMAs in India have an average annual salary of around INR 8.1 LPA. However, salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, job role, and location.
Can I get a job in the USA after completing CMA India?
The CMA India certification is primarily recognized within India, so it may not be sufficient for most roles in the USA. To improve your chances of landing a job in the USA, earning the CMA USA certification is recommended, as it is globally recognized and aligned with international standards
What kind of skills are tested for in a candidate in the US CMA exam?
The US CMA exam tests critical skills required for management accounting and financial management. Key skills assessed include the following:
Financial planning
Analysis & control
Decision support
Professional ethics like credibility, confidentiality, and competence.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in areas such as budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, risk management, and investment decision-making.
Do I need to take CMA Part 1 and Part 2 exams in any specific order?
No, there’s no specific order, you can take the CMA Part 1 and Part 2 exams in any order. The flexibility allows you to prepare for and attempt the exam part you feel most confident about first. However, both parts must be completed within three years of enrollment to achieve certification.
Who earns more, CMA or MBA in the USA?
According to PayScale, professionals with a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification have an average base salary of approximately $102,000 (INR 87L). In comparison, individuals holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree earn an average base salary of about $99,000 (INR 85L). These figures indicate that CMA-certified professionals may earn slightly more on average than MBA graduates in the USA
Is CMA harder than CA?
The Chartered Accountant (CA) qualification is generally considered more challenging than the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification. The CA program typically spans around five years and has a pass percentage of around 8%. In contrast, the CMA program can often be completed within a year and has higher pass rates, ranging from 45%.
What is the role of CMA in an organization?
A CMA plays a crucial role in strategic financial management within an organization. Responsibilities include budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis, risk management, and performance evaluation. CMAs help in making data-driven decisions to enhance profitability and efficiency. They also ensure compliance with ethical standards and provide valuable insights for optimizing financial strategies and improving operational efficiency.
Do I need an accounting background to enroll for the CMA program?
No, an accounting background is not mandatory to enroll in the CMA program. However, having a foundational knowledge of financial principles can be helpful. The main requirement is a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in any discipline. Additionally, completing two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management is required for certification.
What if I don't pass both parts within 3 years in CMA USA?
If you do not pass both CMA exam parts within the three-year period, you must re-enroll in the CMA program. This involves paying the entrance fee again. Any previously passed exam part will become invalid, requiring you to retake both Part 1 and Part 2 to complete the certification process.
Can I switch my CMA exam testing window after scheduling it?
Yes, you can transfer your CMA exam to the next testing window. You must request this change through IMA Member Services at ima@imanet.org at least five days before your scheduled exam. A $75 (INR 6.4K) fee applies. Additionally, Prometric charges a $50 (INR 4K) fee if you reschedule within 3 to 30 days of your appointment.
Urvi has 3 years of experience as a content writer and marketer. Over years, she has established herself as a study-abroad expert and is adept at crafting compelling and engaging content for students. Self-driven and passionate professional, she likes writing poetry and has authored a poetry book ‘Thoughts of a Wallflower’.
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