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CMA Exam Dates, Schedule and Calendar [2021 CMA Testing Window]

If you’re planning for your CMA credential, you should know the CMA exam dates, schedule, and deadlines. Plus, it’s essential to understand how to register and manage your time.

My goal is to help candidates understand the CMA exam, how to prepare for it, and pass it. In this post, I will give you all the information you need about Part 1 and 2 CMA exams dates for 2021. I’ll also cover which part of the exam you should take first and how to effectively plan out your entire CMA journey.

Ready for the CMA exam dates for 2021? Here is the latest info.

Overview of 2021 CMA Exam Dates

You need to understand the CMA exam schedule to register for your exam dates. Maybe you’ve been studying for weeks (or even months), and you finally feel confident enough to book your CPA exam date in 2021. However, it’s not possible to take the exam whenever you wish.

First, you must schedule your CMA exam within one of the testing windows. The good news is that we already know the CMA exam dates for 2021, so you have plenty of time to prepare.

Furthermore, understanding the timeframe for the testing windows is essential to your CMA exam schedule. The IMA currently offers three testing windows each year for the CMA accounting exam dates, as follows:

CMA Testing Window First Exam Date Last Exam Date Last Date to Register
January/February Jan. 1, 2021 Feb. 28, 2021 Feb. 15, 2021
May/June May 1, 2021 June 30, 2021 June 15, 2021
September/October Sept. 1, 2021 Oct. 31, 2021 Oct. 15, 2021

Additionally, the dates are the same for each section of the two-part exam. Therefore, the CMA exam part 2 dates are identical to the part 1 dates.

If you miss your testing window, you’ll have more hassles than just needing to reschedule. After all, it could throw your study plan off by months. Missing a testing window isn’t the end of the world, but it’s always better to avoid it when possible. Since the testing windows are always the same, you can avoid this problem by being proactive about your planning.

Once you’ve picked your testing window you want to go for, how do you book your spot?

Booking to Schedule CMA Exam with Prometric

You will schedule your test with a Prometric center, but you can choose the test center closest to you. Take this crucial first step seriously, since planning potential travel arrangements is also essential when you schedule a test. You can also use this same Prometric dashboard to reschedule or cancel your test and to confirm your test once you have scheduled it.

Next, in order to reserve a space at the Prometric exam site, you will need an authorization number. It is advised that you send in your registration around 6 weeks before the intended date of your exam to ensure everything is processed on time. Keep in mind that many people are trying to register, and spots may be limited, especially at more popular testing centers.

Finally, remember that you must be an IMA member before you register for the exam. You’ll need to meet these requirements to get your CMA certification:

  1. Hold an active IMA membership.
  2. Pass Parts 1 and 2 of the CMA Exam.
  3. Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university or a related equivalent professional certification.

Now that you know the IMA CMA exam dates, let’s look at some tips for scheduling your appointment.

CMA Schedule Tips

If possible, schedule your exam in the first month of a testing window (i.e., Jan, May, Sep). This gives you more “wiggle room” if you need to reschedule. This could save you money in the long run, as you can incur rescheduling fees.

cma exam windows

Candidates are allowed to reschedule their exams for free within the same testing window as long as their test date is still 30 days away. For example, if you run out of studying time, you can still postpone your January exam to February. If you schedule the exam in February, you can’t extend to May, and instead must pay in full for your next exam.

No one likes to think they will need to reschedule their exam, but you never know what will happen. Putting yourself in the position of having the free rescheduling time is a smart move, just in case.

Now, how do you know which part of the exam you should take first? Do people always take the parts in order? I want to address this common question since it affects the CMA planning and scheduling process.

Which CMA Part Should You Take First?

Interestingly, you do not have to take the CMA exam parts 1 and 2 in order. It’s completely up to you. For example, you can choose to take Part 2 first, if you want. So, how do you decide? The first step is to know what content each part contains. If one part seems significantly easier for you, then you can choose to tackle that one first. There really isn’t a right or wrong way, since in the end, you need to complete and pass both parts to get your certification.

The IMA breaks it down like this:

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

  • 15% External Financial Reporting Decisions
  • 20% Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting
  • 20% Performance Management
  • 15% Cost Management
  • 15% Internal Controls
  • 15% Technology and Analytics

Many candidates find Part 1 to be more difficult since it covers more topics and a wider array of subject matter. You can read more about CMA Exam Part 2 difficulty compared to Part 1 if you want to learn more. In general, Part 2 has fewer subjects and units, so many people do consider it easier. Personally, I was more frustrated with Part 2. It seems easier when you look at it, but the questions were not as straightforward as Part 1.

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

  • 20% Financial Statement Analysis
  • 20% Corporate Finance
  • 25% Decision Analysis
  • 10% Risk Management
  • 10% Investment Decisions
  • 15% Professional Ethics

You will have an average of 12-18 months to complete each part, with 3 years to complete both. Many people sit for the exams in order, taking Part 1 first since it seems the most logical. However, some people think Part 2 will be easier for them, so they register to take it first and get it out of the way. The choice is yours. If you want to review the material a bit more and then make a decision, that is one option.

What other CMA dates do you need to be aware of?

Other Important CMA Exam Dates IMA

In addition to knowing the exam windows, you should be aware of a few other restrictions for scheduling your CMA exam.

  • All exam appointments must be made with Prometric at least 72 hours before your exam date.
  • If you need to cancel an exam appointment, you must do so at least 72 hours before your date, according to Prometric’s policies.
  • Exam appointments must be scheduled within the same testing window. For example, if your original appointment was in the January/February window, you can’t reschedule for the May/June window.

Understanding your CMA clock

Furthermore, you also need to understand your “CMA clock.” You have to complete all steps of the certification process within a certain timeline. Please note that the countdown on your CMA exam clock starts the day you pay the CMA entrance fee. On this date, you’re officially “in” and your work to become a CMA begins.

Specifically, you must register for the exam within 12 months of entering the CMA program and pass both parts of the CMA exam within 3 years. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of your window and not to allow these dates to pass you by. If you run down your CMA exam clock, you must start all over again by re-paying the entrance fee.

Keeping a CMA calendar

To manage and track your CMA exam clock, most people keep a CMA calendar. You can also work this CMA exam calendar into your study program to help you stay on track.

It’s quite common for accounting certification exams to require candidates to pass their exams within a set amount of time. For example, CPA candidates have both an 18-month rolling window and CPA credit expirations to consider. Therefore, the 3-year CMA competition deadline is quite normal and even generous, comparatively.

Example of Your CMA Exam Schedule Calendar

Next, let’s take a look at how the CMA exam calendar will work for you.

Let’s say today is January 1, 2021, and you plan to complete the CMA program within 6 months.  Let’s also assume that you have already accumulated 2 years of relevant working experience as an accountant working in a corporation.

  • Apply for IMA membership and pay the entrance fee – Jan 2021
  • Pick a CMA review course and start studying – Jan 2021
  • Pick your CMA test exam dates and register for the CMA exam – around mid-March 2021
  • Sit for the exam (Part 1) – May 2021
  • Sit for the exam (Part 2) – June 2021
  • Pass the 2 parts and get your CMA certification!

I can’t tell you exactly what your CMA exam calendar will look like since it needs to be personalized to you. However, I can guide you on how to create your own. As you see from this example above, you can build your own calendar. Just base your calendar on the days that you register, become an IMA member, and take the exam parts 1 and 2. Look at this roadmap to plan when and how to move through the CMA certification process.

Waiting On Your Test Results

Once you register and take the CMA exam, you’ll receive your results based on an established schedule. Like most people, you will probably be anxious to get them. But, it’s important to know that your results won’t just come straight away. The test results are still calculated manually, by hand. Therefore, there is a processing period from when you take the test until you get the results back.

However, you don’t need to stalk your mail carrier every day! After all, it’s easy to figure out when you will get your results based on when you took that part of the exam. Let’s explore this.

CMA Exam Results Release Date 2021

Your CMA exam result date is based on a formula depending on your test window. They say the waiting is truly the hardest part. And while this may be true, you can do some value-added things while you wait.

So, what are the 2021 CMA exam release dates? It’s easy to figure out with this formula.

Results come 6 weeks from the last day of the month you took the test, plus or minus a day.

Example:

  • If you take the exam on January 30, you will know the date sometime in the middle of March.
  • If you take the exam a few weeks earlier on January 2, your CMA exam result is released the same day as the above. Why? Well, you’ll wait 6 weeks after the end of the month you tested.

So in this example, if you choose any CMA January 2021 exam date, you won’t get your results until March.

The results will be updated online in your IMA profile almost immediately from this date. Furthermore, Prometric will email you a performance report about 14 days after your exam.

CMA Results 2021: Score Release Dates

This chart of score release dates will help you see when you can expect your scores, based on when you took the exam.

Testing months (2021) Jan Feb May Jun Sep Oct
Estimated score release dates Mar 14 Apr 11 Jul 12 Aug 11 Nov 11 Dec 12
Actual score release TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD TBD
# weeks after the end of
testing month		  6  6 6 6 6 6

Some IMA Stats about CMAs

Next, let’s look at some statistics about CMAs. This sounds like a lot of information, planning, and scheduling to get the CMA certification. But is it worth it?

Here is what the IMA has to say about CMAs:

  • The CMA has a 50% pass rate globally
  • 4,000 CMAs granted each year on average
  • 70,000 CMAs awarded to date

Those are some impressive stats that you now get to be a part of.

Join us if you want to get tips on how to plan,
study, and pass your CMA exam… on your first attempt!

For Your Further Reading

 

About the Author Stephanie Ng

I am the author of How to Pass The CPA Exam (published by Wiley) and the publisher of this and several accounting professional exam prep sites.

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Leave a Comment:

109 comments
moiramedkay@gmail.com says October 21, 2020

Within a particular test window, you are the one to schedule your own particular date for the exams?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says November 3, 2020

    Hi, Moira! Yes, you are the one to schedule your exam date!

    Reply
Samer says April 10, 2018

Hi , I pay the IMA and Cma program entrance fees year ago , should I repay the cma program fee
( which it suppose for one time ) since I did not register for the exam within 12 month .

Thanks

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 5, 2018

    Oh, if you didn’t take the exam within 12 months, you might need to… but please double check with the IMA and see if that’s required. I hope not! Stephanie

    Reply
Raj says December 11, 2017

HI Stephanie,

Hope you are doing good.
I have completed B.Com & Master Degree of Finance.
Just would like to check my eligibility.
I have 16 years of experience in finance as a SAP Finance & Costing Consultant. I have certified SAP Consultant.
Is it sufficient as a experience.

Best Regards
RAJ

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 28, 2017

    Hi Raj, yes looks more than sufficient! You may want to double check with the IMA (by emailing them at ima@imanet.org) to make sure. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
      Raj says May 8, 2018

      Hello Stepphanie,

      Thanks for your reply. I am eligible to attend CMA since my qualification as SAP Finance Consultant would sufficient.

      Best Regards
      RAJ.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says May 10, 2018

        Good to know! Please let us know when you decide to sign up for the exam 🙂 stephanie

        Reply
Goldie says October 31, 2017

Hi, I completed my graduation in 2003. I have 11 years of experience. Am I eligible for CMA US examination. Kindly suggest.

Reply
Ali says May 19, 2017

Hello Stephanie,

i have scheduled my appointment for cma part 1 and after getting the confirmation number of the appointment, there was something i wanted to ask.

All i have got is authorization number from IMA and confirmation number from prometric, how will i actually sign-in, isn’t there any prometric ID, username and password that is provided by the prometric or do I need to register/create an account on prometric. Couldn’t find the info anywhere.

And you have been doing a great work.

Thanks,
Ali

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 26, 2017

    Hi Ali,
    It has been a while back I registered for the exam, but yes you should start at the prometric website, then “schedule my test” , pick a country and city, then after agreeing with the policy etc you will be asked to enter the autorization number from the IMA. It should be quite self-explanatory after that. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Dheeraj says May 6, 2017

Hi sir/ma’am, i have a doubt, i had paid $800 which includes IMA membership fee + Part 2 exam fee (Jan/Feb 17) + Part 1 exam fee (May/June 17) and i had missed my Part 2 exam which was scheduled on Feb 23rd 17 due to some unfortunate events, so now do i get to attend my Part 1 exam (May/June 17) as i have paid my exam fee or i have to pay $800 again??

Reply
Abdul Gopang says March 10, 2017

Hi Stephanie,

I am planning to take part 1 CMA exam in May-June window of 2017. Is there any deadline from IMA for exam registration for that window?

Reply
Zubair says February 6, 2017

hi,
I have get IMA membership in student category in January 2017. But I want appear in CMA-Part 1 exam in this widow’s February last days… it is possible..??

I have not deposit entrance fess yet also…

Regards,

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says February 7, 2017

    Hi Zubair, should be open if there is still space at your chosen prometric center.
    Make sure you have enough time to prepare though. It’s already Feb 7. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
Elena says December 18, 2016

Hi! where can I see the schedule of Prometric center for Jun-Feb session for Russia, Moscow? Available dates? Thanks!

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 18, 2016

    Hi Elena, there isn’t a particular schedule. You pick your own dates. Typically the prometric center is open Monday to Friday (or Saturday), but it depends on the specific center in your area. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Sohini Roy says December 17, 2016

How many days the exam will take place after the registration??

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 17, 2016

    Hi Sohini, not too sure what you mean, but the exam day is available in Jan-Feb, May-Jun, Sep-Oct. You can schedule your own day on any weekday within these testing windows.

    Reply
      Sohini Roy says December 17, 2016

      I wanted to say that is there any particular date for exam on Jan Feb section.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says December 18, 2016

        No you pick your own dates. Typically the prometric center is open Monday to Friday (or Saturday), but it depends on the specific center in your area. Regards, Stephanie

        Reply
Kaycee says October 11, 2016

Hello, Miss Stephanie!

I’m a CPA from the Philippines and I’m interested of obtaining a CMA Certificate, but I don’t exactly know how and where to start.

Reply
Mick says September 5, 2016

Hello
Thank you so much for your thorough review of everything about the CMA.

However, I found one incorrect information in your statement I would like you to clarify.\
you said “Specifically, you will need… AND complete the process including the experience requirements within 3 YEARS. I would like to point out that the 2016 CMA handbook states
“Candidates for the CMA Certification must complete two continuous years of
professional experience in management accounting and/or financial management.
This requirement may be completed prior to or within seven years of passing the
examination.”

Please let me know if I understand it incorrectly. Thank you in advance

Mick

Reply
Ron says June 19, 2016

Hi Stephanie,
I signed up for the CMA on July 2015.
I wrote my first exam on January 2016.
Do I have 5 or 6 testing windows left from now until expiry?
I wanted to confirm with you.
Thanks.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 19, 2016

    Hi Ron, you have 3 years to take the two parts of the exam. There are 3 testing windows each year. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Ahmad says May 20, 2016

Hey
Thanks a lot Stephanie,

I passed my cma part 1 exam in 2014 and I need to pass the second Part before 13 January 2017.
my question is if i do the part 2 exam for example on 10 January 2017 but I get the result after the 13th(the membership in cma program is expired) and i pass the exam.Would that count or I have to do the two CMA exams again.

thanks a lot .

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 22, 2016

    Hi Ahmad, I would think that it counts the exam date but for important thing like this, do double check with the IMA. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
DIJOY BALAKRISHNAN says April 12, 2016

i failed in both part of cma. now i want to re-appear for part 1, coming June. my cma membership is still active till june 2016.
can you please advice, whether i need Enroll in the CMA certification program again by paying fee, before booking my exam ?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says April 12, 2016

    Hi Dijoy, sorry to hear that. If it is to be expired in June, I would probably wait to start all over. Our blogger Deepak is in a very similar situation and you can read how other readers have responded and suggested in the comment section: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-result-shortfall/

    Reply
Aslam says March 23, 2016

Hi………..As exam dates now are May/June215 and am appearing in CMA Part 1…so can I enroll for June216 or CMA Part 1 exam’s date is fixed as May 216?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says March 23, 2016

    Hi Aslam, yes you can schedule the exam in June now, not a problem. Stephanie

    Reply
VIshnu says January 12, 2016

Hi stephanie, i have registered with CMA with new year student promotion bundle. As i plan to write part 2 on coming February 2016, I didnt received the authorization code from CMA to schedule my exam at prometric site. How to get this authorization code ?? thank you

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 13, 2016

    Hi Vishnu, did you receive an email? How about the spam folder? If not, it is best to contact IMA directly quoting your membership number. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Mike says November 23, 2015

Hi,
I appreciate your insights to the above questions.
I really learned a lot.
I just wanna ask.

1. What if I take Part 1 and fail, am I still legible to take Part 2 in the next Exam Window?

2. If yes, when is the maximum time where I am allowed to retake the failed exam (Part 1)

3. How many times are we allowed to retake the failed Part until we pass?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says November 23, 2015

    Hi Mike, you are most welcome! On your questions:
    1. Yes you can take Part 2 first if preferred, although, in my opinion, it’s better to retake Part 1 when you are still familiar with the concepts.
    2. You can take each part once in each testing window. Technically, you can take it 9 times (3 testing windows for 3 years). After that, you need to repay the fee for the CMA and count again.
    3. As above… though I really hope we don’t need to do that 😉

    Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
      Michael says January 13, 2016

      Hi,

      Do you know where could I possibly get the list of allowed calculators for CMA Exam?

      Thank you.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says January 13, 2016

        Hi Michael, I have a page with this info. I also include a link to the CMA Candidate Handbook where you can find the same information. https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-calculator/

        Reply
          Michael says January 13, 2016

          Thank you for your reply. Yes, I have read those already but was there a list stating the allowed calculators? I would prefer to use Casio Fx-991ES if it is okay.

          Reply
          Stephanie Ng says January 16, 2016

          There is a list in the handbook, but it’s basically the 4 calculators I mentioned on that page. I don’t think the Casio one you mentioned is allowed, but you can double check with IMA directly. Regards, Stephanie

          Reply
Saif says October 25, 2015

Hi

Within how many years you are allowed to pass the exams I.e from membership date

Thanks
Saif

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says October 27, 2015

    Hi Saif, you need to complete the two parts within 3 years, counting from the day you join the CMA program (pay the fee). Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
ikram says October 13, 2015

Hello
i have appointment for part 2 exam in end of October 2015
please guide me that can i switch this part 2 exam to part 1 exam
thanks.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says October 15, 2015

    Not really Ikram… are you running out of time to study? I would still go for it (take this as a mock exam) since you can’t postpone the exam to the next window. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Rob says October 1, 2015

Hi Stephanie,
I wanted to clarify.
We need to get both parts done and the work experience of 2 years done all in 3 years?
is this correct?
if this is the case, we need to be working and doing these exams together for sure.
thanks.

Reply
    Stephanie says October 7, 2015

    Haha Rob, that would be too tough. You just need to complete the two parts within 3 years. Then you can fulfill the experience requirement afterwards. But if you have prior experience gained either before or during the exam, that counts too. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
      Amu says August 13, 2018

      I guess we have 7 years to complete the education and experience requirements. Isn’t that right?

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says September 15, 2018

        Yes, you have up to seven years to submit documents that support your education and experience qualifications.

        Kind regards,
        Stephanie

        Reply
Ahmad says September 19, 2015

Hello,

I did the CMA part 1 exam in June 2014 and i pass in it.My question is: until when do I have time to pass the second part.(I paid for my entrance Fee in January 2014)

Thank you.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 23, 2015

    Hi Ahmad! The last testing month is January 2017 as you have three years to complete both parts. Still have time, but if you can get it done sooner, the better 🙂 Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
Rob says August 7, 2015

Hi Stephanie,
Correct me if I am wrong but can we take our (part1/2) exams on any day of the month except Sunday? if that is the case, I plan on doing one of them on October 31st 2015 (it is a Saturday).
Thanks.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 7, 2015

    Hi Rob, it depends on the specific prometric center. For big ones they open every monday to friday, but I know the smaller ones may only open a few days during the week. In those cases saturday slots may not be available at all. I suggest that you check it out in advance — you can take a look at the prometric website on availability before you apply for the exam.

    Reply
      Rob says August 7, 2015

      Hi Stephanie,
      Thanks for the information.
      I checked the prometric site but it doesn’t allow us to check availability unless we have an authorization number from IMA. I believe we need to pay for this beforehand. Is that right?
      Thanks.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says August 7, 2015

        Oh yes, you are right Rob, I used to be able to check that but they must have changed something on the site. What you can still do is to locate the test center (I just tried that and it worked), write down the phone number, and call them. Hopefully you only have 1-2 centers in mind. Good luck! Stephanie

        Reply
Raquel says May 25, 2015

Hi again,

first i want to thank you for coming up with this website. it’s really helpful for us aspirants. thank you so much. 🙂

here’s my question, can I choose any date within the testing windows?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 25, 2015

    Hi Raquel,
    Thank you for your kind words, and you are most welcome!
    Yes you can choose any day within the testing window (except sunday). Some centers may not open on Saturdays so it also depends. If you prefer Fridays or Saturdays, please schedule your date ASAP. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Abdul Khadar says May 22, 2015

Hi Stephanie,

Thanks for your help for all CMA aspirants. I am planning to take up both exams in Sep/Oct 2015 window. Part 1 at the beginning of September & part 2 at the end of October. Queries:

1. Shall I pay fee for both modules at the same time?

2. Is passing part1 is mandatory to register for part 2. If so, it takes 6 weeks to get the passing score, do we have enough time to register for second part?

Thanks,
Abdul Khadar

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 25, 2015

    Hi Abdul,
    Thanks for your note! On your questions:
    1. I don’t think you need to pay both together. There used to be a discount if you do that, but not anymore.
    2. No you can take part 2 first, or take part 2 even if you fail part 1. So no worries.

    Regards
    Stephanie

    Reply
      Abdul Khadar says May 26, 2015

      Hi Stephanie,

      Thanks for your reply. I am planning to start my certification journey as below:

      1. Pay IMA membership : 1st week of June
      2. Procure Gliem pack & Start preparation 1st week of June
      3. Pay for entrance Fee: 1st week of Aug
      4. Pay fee for part 1: 3rd week of Aug & take exam on 1st week of Sep
      5. Pay fee for part 2: 2nd week of Oct & take exam on 4th week of Oct.

      Is that ok.

      Thanks,
      Abdul Khadar

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says May 28, 2015

        Hi Abdul,
        Sounds good! The only comment I have is that you are scheduling the part 2 weeks in advance. Space may run out in popular centers… If you want to be 100% sure you can take the exam in early Sep, might want to pay the part 1 fee earlier. Good luck! Stephanie

        Reply
ER says May 5, 2015

Hi Stephanie

I was wondering if you could please give me some feedback on my plan for the taking the CMA exam.

My two options are:
1. Studying for part 1, taking that test, and then studying for part 2 and then taking that test.
2. Taking the test within the same month of early January 2016.

Option 1 Option 2
Course Review ($) May-15 May-15
IMA Membership ($) May-15 May-15
Entrance Fee ($) Jun-15 Jun-15
Exam Registration ($) Aug-15 Dec-15
Part 1 Sep-15 Jan-16
Part 2 Jan-16 Jan-16

$ indicate the month when I will pay the required fees. Thanks!

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 5, 2015

    Hi ER,
    Looks good to me! It is safer if you take the two parts in different testing windows (i.e. option 1 is better). Many of my readers pulled it off with taking two tests at the same time, but they often told me they would do it separate if they have the choice again.

    For exam registration, Aug 15 is fine but if you want to sit for the exam on Fri/Sat, better register (and schedule) your exam at least two months before your planned exam date in Sep. This means you need to register in July. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Mark says April 27, 2015

Hi Stephanie, I saw one of your notes saying you can sit in your local city? I am in Bahamas, is it possible to sit the exams here?

Reply
Yatish says February 9, 2015

Hi Stephanie

Could you suggest any reference books for CMA???

Thank You

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says February 9, 2015

    Hi Yatish, this page lists out the pros and cons of major Cma review course / book provider she. Hope it helps!
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/CMA-review-course/

    Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
      Yatish says February 10, 2015

      Thank you Stephanie. You are doing a wonderful job here. i really appreciate the time you take to guide us.

      Many more questions.

      1. I am from india working in oman. Can i give my exams from Oman??
      2. If yes? What if i go to UAE in one year?
      3. What is the min time in which i can complete my CMA?
      4. What is total fees i have to pay for CMA till completion?

      Will keep posting for any other queries.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says February 10, 2015

        Hi Yatish,
        Most welcome! You can actually get answer to all your questions here: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-faq/
        Please let me know if you can’t find what you are looking for.
        Regards, Stephanie

        Reply
Ronald Davis says January 20, 2015

Respected sir,

I have a plan for attend part 1 exam on with in May 2015 & also with membership fee renews on June 15th 2015 . Is it need for renew annual fee before May for attend exam of May 2015?

Thanks & regards,
Ronald Davis

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2015

    Hi Ronald, please double check with IMA, but if you don’t need to renew until June, your May exam is fine as is, i.e. no need to renew in advance Regards, stephanie

    Reply
Leena says September 26, 2014

Hi,

What is the average time taken to prepare for the CMA exam (both parts taken in the same window)? Or rather what is the shortest time period required to prepare sufficiently for the exam?
I am an ACCA (having taken P4 and P5) and thus have good accounting knowledge. I plan on taking the Gleim CMA Review as well.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 28, 2014

    Hi Leena, candidates are suggested to allocated 100-150 hours to study for each part of the CMA exam. As for the shortest, I don’t think anyone can give you an answer… I suppose there could be a few people who can take the exam and pass without studying. But this is certainly not the vast majority.

    If you have a good knowledge in the exam content, it’s great news. All the best to your exam! Stephanie

    Reply
      Leena says September 29, 2014

      Thanks Stephanie!

      Reply
Naveen says September 21, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I am from India, having bachelor degree b com and CA qualification. I would like to enroll into cma course. Could you please suggest the mode of enrollment that is as a professional or a student, since I am also into industry on audit and compliance role. When does enroll as a student s applicable.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 22, 2014

    Hi Naveen, if you have graduated from your bachelor or other courses, then you can only apply as a standard candidate. The student discount is applicable only to those who take at least 6 credit hours (roughly 2 standard courses) each semester.

    For details on the cost please refer to this post: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-fees/

    Reply
      Naveen says September 22, 2014

      Hi Stephanie,

      Thanks for the details.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says September 22, 2014

        🙂

        Reply
Ali says September 10, 2014

Hi Stephanie

Thanks for responding to other people’s queries as it helps everybody!

I have a specific query though, may be you can help in that.

– I have joined IMA and paid the membership fee ($235). Now I understand I am required to pay certificate entrance fee ($240) and then exam fee ($395) to appear for exam?

– I am aiming for late October exam date as I am taking off from work in September end. My question is whether you have any idea on the probable dates of CMA exam in the month of October 2014. My test centre will be in Qatar. Will I be able to get something late October?

Appreciate your quick response.

Thanks
Ali

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 11, 2014

    Hello Ali!
    On the $$, yes I am afraid there are 3 levels of fees…
    I believe for Qatar center, you can schedule your exam at prometric.com now so you’ll know the date. If you prefer Fridays and Saturdays, please schedule as soon as possible.
    More info on how to schedule your exam on this page: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-location/
    Please let me know if you have further questions. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
      Ali says September 12, 2014

      Thanks Stephanie

      Yes, the three level fee was not clear! Just one more thing – this certificate entrance fee will be valid when I enroll for part 2 in Jan/Feb window or I will have to pay it again?

      Thanks a lot
      Ali

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says September 13, 2014

        Yes, only need to entrance fee once within the 3 year period.

        Reply
          Mohamed safwat says May 31, 2015

          Excuse me, if i couldn’t finish my cma within 3 years, what i should do ?
          Please answer me because I am so confused.

          Thanks

          Reply
          Stephanie Ng says May 31, 2015

          Hi Mohamed,
          Let’s say you don’t pass both exams, then the other impact that is you have to pay the entrance fee again.

          If you pass Part 1 of the exam and not Part 2, then you will lose the exam credit of Part 1 and you have to do it all over again, including paying the entrance fee. Regards, Stephanie

          Reply
Arshad says September 7, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I hope you have a wonderful time while on holidays in China. I have few questions relating to CMA, will appreciate if you can reply to them.

– How much is it of value if a person get CMA and then go to find jobs in US from Canada? Will CMA have significance as CPA has in the job market in US?

– If i pay entrance fee in this month say for instance at 15 September , 6 weeks time will be at the end of October, therefore i can sit in the next window that will open in January ? ? is that correct?

– IF i pass part I , i will have 12 months to pass part II , is it correct? If i couldn’t pass part II in the 12 months, my part I will be treated as cancelled and i have to re appear in part i and part ii , paying entrance fee again ?

Thanks

Arshad
,

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 7, 2014

    Hi Arshad, thanks for your note! On your questions:
    1. As of now, CMA is not as widely regarded as CPA in my opinion. However, if you are interested in certain industries, especially those with strong manufacturing base, they do value the CMA certification. Also, if you are lucky and the future employer is a CMA, I am SURE he/she will be delighted because they aren’t a lot out there (compared to CPAs).

    2. I think you can actually sit for the exam even in the Sep-Oct window, because everything is online and the approval came very quickly, for me at least. But please double check with IMA. If it is for the Jan window I am quite sure it’s fine.

    3. No, you need to take (NOT necessarily pass) either Part 1 or Part 2 within 12 months. Then, need to pass both within 3 years. After that, you need to repay the entrance fee and take whatever you have passed again.

    Hope it helps? Stephanie

    Reply
Alagu Purani says September 1, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I am currently a home maker in San Diego,with a Bachelors Degree in Commerce (B.com) from India. I am looking to obtain CMA certification. When I looked into the type of IMA membership,I didn’t know what kind of membership will suit my needs. I just want to do CMA for my qualification and not for my career. It will be of great help if u can guide me as to what kind of membership would be economical to choose at this point of time.

Also, how do I get started to prepare for this exam and where do I get the materials from.

Reply
ryan justin talavera says August 28, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

thanks for this page i got an idea to manage my registration and exam schedule.

thanks also to freedy.

br,

ryan

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 28, 2014

    🙂

    Reply
Jarod says June 23, 2014

Anyone heard an estimated date for score releases in July for a test taken May 1, 2014? Passed part 1 already and waiting on results for part 2. I’m getting anxious to see how I did. Thanks

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 24, 2014

    Hi Jarod, I thought it’s typically 6 weeks?? How long did it take you to get the result for Part 1? Stephanie

    Reply
Rick says April 18, 2014

How do employers take CMA – IMA in Toronto as Canada as its own CPA system in place now?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says April 19, 2014

    Hi Rick,
    Unfortunately I won’t be able to answer this question because my site is focused on the US CMA exam. But this site may provide further information:
    https://cpacanada.ca/

    Regards
    Stephanie

    Reply
Sarika says February 13, 2014

hi,

I am doing CMA from UAE, I need to known what will be the exam date if i want to give exam in may-2014.

Reply
goutham says January 20, 2014

Hai sir.. i am doing C.A in India. next year I will get my degree certification. I have already 2years working experience in a audit firm. before completing my degree can I appear CMA COURSE now. what are the requirements I have to submit.

thank you….

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Goutham, the CMA requires a bachelor’s degree an accredited college or university. I am not sure if if CA is considered a “degree” in this case. A listing of accredited International and US institutions is available at: https://univ.cc/world.php

    Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Rick says November 23, 2013

Two questions:

How much time is recommended for each part ?

Would you have a sample image of the CMA Certificate?

Thanks

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Rick, around 100-150 hours for each part. If I remember correctly it is a suggestion from IMA. On your second question, you can simply google “CMA certificate” by image. Stephanie

    Reply
Freddy George says July 17, 2013

Hi Stephanie,
I need some clarification about registering for the exam within one year. They says we must register for the exam within one year of registration. But what about the exam date? The date of exam must fall within the one year period?

To be more specific, I have enrolled for the course in October 2012 and its valid till 31 Sep, 2013. I want to register for the exam while renewing my registration. Do i have to take the exam before 31 Sep 2013 or Register before 31 Sep and sit for the exam in October? Pls advice

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 24, 2013

    Hmmm I am not sure actually, that’s a good question. I will try to ask IMA but you might want o send them an email directly to clarify: ima@imanet.org.

    Reply
      Freddy George says July 25, 2013

      Hey
      Thanks a lot Stephanie,

      Last week they responded to my query. Those who have a similar situation, pls find their reply as below. Hope it helps. 🙂

      Good day

      “Freddy,

      Thank you for contacting the IMA. You must register for an exam no later than October 11, 2013. You do not have to take the exam in October you must register for the exam. If you do not register for an exam part you will have to repay the CMA Entrance fee. You can register for an exam in either the January – February 2014 window or the May – June 2014 window. I hope this clears things up for you.

      Regards,

      Representative Member Services

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says July 25, 2013

        Great Freddy! Thanks for taking the time to post this for us.

        Reply
Salisa says January 24, 2013

Hi! Do you recommend studying for two parts and then take the two exams or study for it one by one?

For example, I plan on taking the exam in May/June testing window. Should I study part 1 only, take the part 1 exam in May, and study part 2 in May and June, then take the exam in June?

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Salisa, I believe most people study for the exam one by one. Unlike the CPA exam where you have to fly to the US for the exam, you can likely take it at your local city, in which case it is easier to tackle one at a time. Hope it helps! Stephanie

    Reply
atef says November 28, 2012

dears,
first i’m an egyptian accountant have an experience for 10 years in UAE and i’m dreaming with CMA so after intering to your site i have to thank you first for giving me the right and shorted way to reach for my aim
second please i’m living in UAE so i need to know what is the place i have to go to Apply for IMA membership and pay the entrance fee ?
and if my will to do the exam next sept 2013 please advice me suggested plan

thank you
atef masoud

Reply
    Ren Dizon says December 9, 2012

    Hi Atef, thanks a lot for your kind words. I really appreciate it.
    I believe you can pay for the membership online through credit card. Is that possible for you?
    For Sept 2013 then you can join IMA first, then take the time to pick the review course designed specifically for the CMA exam. It is not necessary to take these course but it will greatly improve your chance of passing success.
    Here are the major review providers and the pros and cons of each:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/

    Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
Raas says October 29, 2012

should i attent both parts in one test window..and also all subject in both parts in one test window..

looking forward to hear from you…

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Raas, sure you can do that if you have the time and commitment to prepare for both sections within a short period of time. From the conversation with my readers, it seems to me that quite a lot of them are taking the two sections closely together. Stephanie

    Reply
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