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How to Become a CMA: The CMA Certification Process

how to become a cma

Earning the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification is attractive to lots of accounting professionals due to the many benefits of the CMA. If you’re interested in the CMA for all the ways it can enhance your career, you need to learn exactly how to become a CMA so you can start the process. So, use this 13-step guide to learn about CMA eligibility and begin your CMA journey.

Table of Contents

How to Become a CMA

If you want to earn the CMA, you can’t skip any of these steps. Instead, you must fully commit to each of them and give them your all in order to reach CMA success as soon as possible.

The first 5 steps involve important decisions you must make before beginning the CMA application process. Then, steps 6-13 reveal exactly what you must do to meet all of the CMA certification requirements and prove your CMA qualification.

1. Identify the Benefits of the CMA Certification

The first few steps in the CMA journey are the ones you must take to confirm that you’re ready to go down this road. Securing the CMA certification is not impossible, but it is a bit demanding, so you must know what you’re getting into and why before you proceed.

Start with a basic introduction to the CMA. The Certified Management Accountant certification designates management accounting professionals who have met a series of requirements. As the organization that awards the certification, the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) establishes these requirements in order to objectively measure an accountant’s knowledge and competence in management accounting.

Other than the CMA title, what advantages can you enjoy for satisfying the IMA’s CMA requirements and receiving the certification?

The benefits of the CMA certification include:

  1. Higher income
  2. More job opportunities
  3. Greater job security
  4. Increased skills and abilities
  5. Heightened respect and admiration

Furthermore, the CMA certification is the gold standard in management accounting and probably the most global management accounting certification in the world. What’s more, the skills you gain from earning the CMA are super practical, and the IMA has not made securing the certification an insurmountable challenge. So, if a higher income, better job, greater respect, and more all sound good to you, then you should move on to the next step in the CMA process.

2. Compare the CMA to Other Accounting Certifications

Now, I know you just learned that the CMA is a very rewarding certification, but it is actually not the only worthy accounting certification available. In fact, you have a lot of options as to which accounting certification you can pursue. These options include the:

  1. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license
  2. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation
  3. Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) qualification
  4. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter

You also have a few other management accounting certifications to choose from depending on the country you live in.

You should know which accounting certifications you can earn so that you are absolutely certain the CMA is the one you want to go for at this time. Depending on your career goals, you may want to get the CMA certification and nothing else, or you may decide to combine a few different accounting certifications over time so that you can specialize in a particular field. Knowing your CMA career possibilities and CMA salary potential should help you conclude if this certification is the best choice for you given your background and aspirations.

3. Analyze Your CMA Accounting Ability

The CMA certification is absolutely worth it, but getting this certification does require a substantial investment of time and effort.

As you recall, you have to meet the CMA requirements in order to come away with the certification. The most imposing of these requirements are the exam, education, and experience requirements.

The basics of these requirements include:

  • Exam: pass both parts of the CMA exam within 3 years of entering the CMA program.
  • Education: earn a bachelor’s degree or a professional certification within 7 years of finishing the CMA exam.
  • Experience: acquire 2 continuous years of professional experience in management accounting and/or financial management within 7 years of passing the CMA exam.

Assuming you already planned to earn or did earn a bachelor’s degree of some sort, then meeting the CMA education requirement shouldn’t be an issue. So, the real challenges of the CMA certification will be passing the exam and getting the experience. But honestly, the IMA makes meeting the CMA experience requirement fairly easy, so many candidates believing that passing the CMA exam is the main obstacle.

How hard is the CMA exam? The CMA exam consists of 2 parts. CMA exam Part 1 and Part 2 both present 100 multiple-choice questions and 2 essay questions for you to answer in 4 hours. To get a good indication of CMA exam difficulty, we just need to look at the CMA exam pass rates. Though the pass rates have risen recently, the average CMA pass rate is still just 45%. Therefore, the CMA exam isn’t something you can take lightly. But at the same time, if you’re willing to invest in a CMA review course and study consistently, the CMA exam is something you can pass.

4. Perform Your CMA Certification Cost-Benefit Analysis

If you’re interested in earning the CMA to make more money, then the amount of money you spend on the CMA matters.

When you add up all the CMA fees, you can see that securing the certification will cost you around $2,000.

So, the simple question is: Can you afford the CMA?

Well, when you consider once again that the CMA helps you increase your income by as much as 47%, then you can see that the certification pays for itself and then pays dividends on top of that.

Also, when you check out all the CMA review discounts you can use to save on your CMA exam prep, then you can see just how affordable the CMA certification can be.

5. Fulfill the CMA Education Requirements

So, if you’re officially ready to begin the CMA process, then you must address the CMA requirements in the best order, starting with the education requirement.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, then you’re most likely all set. You just need to verify that you got your degree from an accredited college or university, request that your institution send an official transcript to the Institute of Certified Management Accountants (ICMA), and check to make sure your transcript is on file in your IMA online account a week or so after you make the request.

What if your school isn’t on the accredited list? This situation isn’t usually a big deal. You just need to have a foreign credential evaluation agency assess your transcript and send their report to the ICMA.

Still in school? Don’t worry: if you’re currently enrolled in such an institution and have not yet graduated, you can still qualify to take the CMA exam and make that your first step toward the CMA. To prove to the IMA that you’re a student, you just need to be registered for at least 6 credits per semester during the academic year. Then, you need to send confirmation of your degree to the ICMA within 7 years of passing the CMA exam.

Your other option for fulfilling the education requirement is to already hold a professional certification. The IMA reveals which certifications fulfill the CMA education requirement, so just check the list and have your organization send a letter confirming your status to the ICMA.

6. Pay the IMA Membership Fee

Once you confirm your interest and eligibility for the exam, you can join the IMA. Your options for IMA membership and the costs of these membership types include:

  • Professional: $245
  • Academic: $135
  • Student: $39
  • Two-Year Student: $78

You must take the following steps to become an IMA member:

  1. Visit the IMA membership page.
  2. Select the appropriate membership category and click “Join”.
  3. Fill out the online application.
  4. Look for an e-mail confirming your successful enrollment as an IMA member.

In the online application form, you will be asked to fill out your personal and professional information, such as other professional credentials, education, job title, and responsibilities, and pay the annual fee by credit card. The whole process shouldn’t take more than 15 minutes.

7. Join the CMA Certificate Program

You need to enter the CMA program in order to take the CMA exam, and becoming a member of the IMA does NOT automatically put you in the CMA program. You can become a member of the IMA and join the CMA program at the same time if you want, but this step is not mandatory.

Therefore, you should join the CMA program only when you are ready to take the exam. You should wait until this point because once you enroll in the program and pay the CMA entrance fee, you must:

  • Start taking the CMA exam within 12 months, and
  • Complete the CMA program within 3 years.

To join the CMA program, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your IMA account.
  2. Select the CMA candidate package you want by clicking “Join”.
  3. Find a professional chapter by selecting a country and chapter.
  4. If you would like to do so, you can also register for CMA exam Part 1 and Part 2 at this time. If you’re not ready to schedule your exam appointment yet, you can just skip these steps by clicking “Skip” on the left side of the page.
  5. Pay the CMA entrance fee ($250 for professional members).
  6. Look out for an e-mail confirming your successful enrollment in the CMA program.
  7. Read the instructions in the email on how to access the CMA Exam Support Package.

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8. Register for the CMA Exam Parts

After enrolling in the CMA program, you may register for the exam. The CMA exam consists of 2 parts:

  • Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance and Analytics
  • Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

You can take the exam parts in any order, though I suggest you start with the part you feel most comfortable with. You can also take the exam parts on the same day or at different times, depending on how much time you have to study.

The CMA exam parts are available to take during the following annual testing windows:

  • January/February
  • May/June
  • September/October

You may choose to register online, by phone with credit card information, or by mailing/faxing the registration form.

To register for the CMA exam, you must follow these steps:

  1. Determine which exam part(s) to take and in which testing window.
  2. Pay for the exam registration fees ($415 per part for professional membership).
  3. Look out for an e-mail confirming your successful registration for the exam part(s).

9. Schedule Your CMA Exam Appointment

Upon successful registration, you can schedule the date and time of the exam part(s) you want to take at Prometric centers in the U.S. and around the world. The centers are open every weekday during the testing windows.

To make a testing appointment, you must visit the Prometric website and click the “Schedule My Test” button. Then, you must select your country and state if applicable. You must consent to the privacy policy and then provide your authorization number from the IMA. After that, you will select the exam part you want to sit for, your preferred testing center location, and your preferred date and time. You’ll then verify your appointment and be all set!

You can typically cancel an appointment within 72 hours, and your refund (minus a $25 administrative fee) will be available within 30 days of registration. However, Prometric charges a $50 fee to candidates who reschedule/cancel appointments within 3 to 30 days of the original test date.

10. Prepare for and Pass the CMA Exam

The CMA exam parts test candidates on their knowledge of the following areas of management accounting and financial management:

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

  1. External Financial Reporting and Decisions
  2. Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting
  3. Performance Management
  4. Cost Management
  5. Internal Controls
  6. Technology and Analytics

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

  1. Financial Statement Analysis
  2. Corporate Finance
  3. Decision Analysis
  4. Risk Management
  5. Investment Decisions
  6. Professional Ethics

Furthermore, each CMA exam part contains 100 multiple-choice questions and 2 essay scenarios for you to answer. So, the CMA exam is definitely an exam you’ll want to study for.

Thankfully, as soon as you enter the CMA program, you’ll receive 6 months of free access to the IMA’s Exam Support Package. You’ll find the package at the IMA Learning Center website as soon as you pay the entrance fee. This package includes a glossary of terms and downloadable and printable multiple-choice and essay practice questions.

But, while the Exam Support Package is helpful, it isn’t sufficient to prepare you for the CMA exam on its own. Instead, to give yourself the best chance of exam success, you need the additional learning tools you’ll find in a CMA review course.

How to Pass the CMA Exam

A CMA review course contains self-study resources that prepare you for the CMA exam by focusing on the exam content. Usually, you can access all the resources in your course online. These resources can include:

  • Digital or physical books
  • A test bank of practice questions
  • A study planner
  • Performance tracking software
  • Video lectures
  • Audio lectures
  • Limited time access
  • Customer service access

You can purchase a complete CMA review course that covers the content of both exam parts, or you can purchase just a CMA review course for just one exam part.

A CMA review course is beneficial because it covers and presents the exam content in a convenient and efficient way, ensures you reach the levels of knowledge and skill that you need in order to pass, and supplies a support system for additional information, advice, and encouragement. To find the best CMA exam prep for you, check out my comparison of the pros and cons of the most popular CMA review course options available. Then, use my CMA review discounts to save big on your preferred course.

11. Meet the Annual CPE CMA Course Requirements

The IMA doesn’t want you to forget what you just learned to pass the CMA exam. Therefore, they start imposing their continuing professional education (CPE) requirement on CMA candidates as soon as candidates finish the CMA exam. So, once you’ve completed the additional requirements and applied for the CMA certificate, your CPE and IMA membership must be current at the time. Otherwise, the IMA won’t award you CMA status.

If you complete the CMA exam in the middle of the year, then you don’t need to meet the CPE requirement until the following year. But you may carry up to 10 CPE hours over to the next reporting year, so you can start working on next year’s CPE as soon as you want.

The IMA’s CPE requirement holds CMAs to taking 30 hours of CPE every year. And, 2 of these 30 hours must cover the area of ethics. Moreover, the subjects of your CPE must be relevant to a management accountant’s or financial manager’s career development and related to employer needs.

You can earn your CPE from the following sources:

  • programs sponsored by employers
  • business organizations
  • educational institutions
  • professional and trade associations.

You’ll also find that qualifying CPE programs come in the following forms:

  • seminars
  • workshops
  • technical meetings
  • self-study packages
  • college courses
  • online courses

12. Complete the CMA Working Experience Requirements

As a CMA candidate, you must have 2 continuous years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.

As with the education requirement, you have the option of completing the experience requirement before or within 7 years of passing the CMA exam.

Furthermore, you can use your full-time teaching experience to fulfill the experience requirement as long as at least 60% of your course load involves teaching accounting or finance above the principles level for a minimum of 2 years.

What’s more, while the IMA does expect full-time employment, they accept continuous part-time positions of 20 hours per week that satisfy their standards for qualified experience. The IMA awards 1 year of experience for every 2 years of part-time employment. Therefore, you’d need to work part-time for 4 years to meet the 2-year experience requirement.

But, whether full-time or part-time, your experience must involve regularly using the principles of management accounting and financial management to make judgments. The IMA believes accountants employ these principles most often in tasks such as:

  • Auditing (external or internal)
  • Budget preparation and reporting
  • Company investment decision making
  • Completing monthly, quarterly, and year end close
  • Costing analysis
  • Financial planning and analysis
  • Forecasting
  • Managing general ledger and balance sheets
  • Preparation of financial statements
  • Risk evaluation

So long as your experience meets these specifications, you can expect the IMA to give you credit for this requirement.

13. Comply with the Ethical Statement

You can officially apply for the CMA certificate once you’ve passed both parts of the CMA exam and fulfilled the experience requirement.

Once you’ve received the certification, you must continuously comply with the IMA’s Statement of Ethical Professional Practice. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. Furthermore, you must also pay the annual IMA membership fee in order to maintain your certification.

Video Summary of How to Become a CMA

This video summarizes how to become a CMA.

More Help for the CMA Exam

I know the CMA process sounds a bit complicated. But, once you take the first step toward becoming a CMA, it’s completely doable. And I am more than happy to help you along the way!

In fact, you can learn even more about the CMA process and discover how to pass the CMA exam on your first attempt in my free CMA e-course. Learn more now or sign up below!

​Get Free CMA Information!

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:

512 comments
namu says May 12, 2012

hi,
I’m from Nepal. my university is listed among the eligible ones. but does it include bachelors in all programs. the next question is does the exam and experience both need to be fulfilled within US territory. does IMA aid in finding training provider? I would be grateful to hear from yu soon.

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 17, 2012

    Hi Namu, I think you don’t need to major in anything particular to get qualified, but if you are not an accounting/finance/related major then please expect to go through all the courses in their CMA program.

    On the exam and experience, no you can take the exam and fulfill the experience outside the US. The experience needs to be properly verified though.

    In terms of the review course provider, I don’t think they endorse any particular one, but I have a list of providers for your reference with the pros and cons: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/

    Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
namuna says May 12, 2012

hello,
Can I complete my preparation for exam and appear in exam online from outside US (I mean Nepal or any other area nearby)?

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 17, 2012

    Yes, if I remember correctly, the CMA exam is offered in 170 countries. I don’t know if it is available in Nepal/a specific part in Nepal but you can contact IMA (IMAnet.org) directly. They are very helpful. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
      Ren Dizon says July 27, 2012

      Update in July 2012: I added a new post on CMA exam location to give you and other readers a better idea:
      https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-location/

      Hope it helps! Stephanie

      Reply
Daniel says June 21, 2012

Good information, very helpful. Thanks for links to website and Handbooks most site just want you to pay to review and get information its good to find one that is benefical in the insight department.

Reply
MUYIDEEN ABIMBOLA OGUNYEMI says June 26, 2012

I WANT TO KNOW IF I CAN BECOME A MEMBER CMA WITH FINISH MY DEGREE AND HOW MUCH FOR THE FEES ALSO WHERE IS THE EXAM CENTRE MAYBE ARE LOCATED IN MY AREA,THANKS

Reply
MUYIDEEN ABIMBOLA OGUNYEMI says June 26, 2012

HERE IN BRASIL

Reply
Rizwan says July 19, 2012

Hello Stephanie,
This site has been extremely helpful to me in making up my mind about going for the CMA Certification. I have completed my B. Com (3 yr degree) from an accredited university in India. I plan to write my exam in India, work here for a couple of years and then move to US Canada or Australia. I would like to know if my certification would be acceptable in those countries or will I have to write any other exam again????

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Rizwan, I have to say Canada has its own version of CMA (CMA canada) so if you are sure you want to go to Canada, it is better to get the other one.

    But if you aren’t sure which country you may work some day, the US CMA is more recognized around the world and it would be a useful investment when you have the time to get it done. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
Jamie says July 26, 2012

I qualify to take the exam based on my education but do not meet the work experience for the CMA certification. I know I can complete the certification within 7 years but once I complete both exams can I indicate that I have taken and passed the CMA exams but lack work experience on my resume? If so how will that look to potential employers and will it help me get a job? I am looking for a financial analyst position or something similar. My fear is that I will pay for everything, pass everything, and still will not be able to find a job. Your thoughts are appreciated. If you can please email me your response that would be great.

Reply
    Ren Dizon says July 27, 2012

    Hi Jamie, yes you are right there is no guarantee that you will get a job after passing the CMA exam. But in a way the working experience by CMA is very broad so I think a motivated person in who actively looks for a job will likely get qualified. Note that they aren’t asking you to work for big companies or anything like that. If you are willing to start small, in a smaller local firm and a supporting boss, I believe it is doable.

    Cheers, and best of luck! Stephanie

    Reply
Lish says July 26, 2012

Hi Rizwan,

Basically as long as the person has a bachelor degree he is fine. They recognize most universities in the world but even if the school isn’t on the list, they can get their transcript evaluated by those evaluation agencies.

You may also check these links for more information:
https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-requirements/
https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cpa-vs-cma/

Reply
JA says August 15, 2012

Hi, I recently signed up to take the CMA part 2 prep course offered through my employer, however I have not taken part 1 (timing was bad & didn’t want to wait until next yr). It’s been +10yrs since I did any hardcore accounting work, and my fear came true tonight after our 1st prep session on Cash flow statements & financial ratios – I felt completely lost! My instructor had to leave early today so I didn’t get to hear his advise how to handle this, so wondering if you have tips? I know this class is going to be intense so I’m searching for the fastest way to brush up on my accting fundamentals just so I can keep up with this course. I saw your recommended courses but since I’m taking one already via a local university, Im not sure if signing up for another one would help much. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! thx!

Reply
Stephanie says August 21, 2012

hi JA, yes I hear you… I would say, take each topic one at a time, and work on the practice questions to get the concepts sink in. Obviously everyone has a different study style but for me I won’t pass by listening to lecturers talking alone. I need to either rewrite my notes or work on actual practice problems to nail the concepts down. I would do both if I have the time and dedication.

Yes those courses are expensive so it’s good idea to stick with your local course, unless they don’t provide enough practice questions then you can get the Gleim test prep software (only the question and not the whole package). Cheers, Stephanie

Reply
RMUHAMMED says September 26, 2012

hai Stephane,
Your site is really helpful, i am a graduate holder in commerce with 70% marks.would like to do CMA.i dont know how to start my preparations. which all books i have to depend. do i need to go for a review could you please help me dear….

Thanks

Reply
Ren Dizon says September 26, 2012

Hi RMumanned, thanks for your note! You should first register and enter into the CMA program first, then you can pick a review course / book based on the comparison on this page. I try to be as objective as I can listing the pros and cons for each.
https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/

Hope it helps, and drop me a note on facebook if you have any questions!
https://www.facebook.com/ipassthecmaexam
Stephanie

Reply
dinesh says October 4, 2012

Hi,

I am preparing for CMA ,please,Is possible to pool study material by any one…my mail id is dinesh.thakran@gmail.com

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Dinesh, I don’t really have a forum for CMA candidates yet but you can try to post it on my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ipassthecmaexam

    Reply
Monica says October 26, 2012

Hi, I was wondering about the 2 years work experience – can your boss sign a letter proofing that you completed the work or it has to be under a CPA? Thanks.

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Monica, there should be a standard form that you can fill in and then ask for your boss’ signature.

    For CMA, no need to work under a CPA. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
Vinda says December 8, 2012

Hi Stephanie,

I’m tad bit on tenterhooks right now as far as my pursuing CMA designation is concerned. I’m in Canada, am a stay at home mom who is ready to get into the job market. But I have my Bcom obtained in India, two years of work experience in a bank in India. I have been in Canada for last eight years. Since then, I don’t have any work experience or any other certification obtained in Canada.

Right now I’m thinking of sending my transcripts to CMA for evaluation and then accordingly get into the AP. My question is: How do I obtain the kind of work experience that you need to get the CMA designation? Since I don’t have any work experience in Canada, I’m guessing I will need to get into a entry level accounting jobs in small firms. But my only fear is, what if that experience is not good enough given that to get a CMA you need to have a more of an advanced, in-depth CMA related work experience? PLEASE ADVISE. Thanks.

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Vinda,
    Thanks for your note. Yes understand the situation… I just look at the CMA handbook again, and my interpretation is that as long as the experience is technical it is fine, doesn’t need to be managerial level (in fact, management experience cannot be counted).
    The “intermediate level and above” applies to the teaching experience where the candidate need to teach a course above elementary level.

    With that, I think you can go ahead! By the way, this is a site for US CMA exam. It is recognized in the US but there is an equivalent CMA qualification in Canada that you may also want to take a look.

    Cheers
    Stephanie

    Reply
Stephanie says December 9, 2012

Hi Vinda,
Thanks for your note. Yes understand the situation… I just look at the CMA handbook again, and my interpretation is that as long as the experience is technical it is fine, doesn’t need to be managerial level (in fact, management experience cannot be counted).
The “intermediate level and above” applies to the teaching experience where the candidate need to teach a course above elementary level.

With that, I think you can go ahead! By the way, this is a site for US CMA exam. It is recognized in the US but there is an equivalent CMA qualification in Canada that you may also want to take a look.

Cheers
Stephanie

Reply
Prajakta says December 11, 2012

Hello Stephanie
Thanks a lot for the wonderful information that you have provided here about the CMA exam. Could you please provide more details regarding compliance of ethical standards?
Regards
Prajakta

Reply
Aniketh says December 19, 2012

Hi,
I am currently pursuing my undergraduate engineering degree in india,i still have a year left.I would like to take up the cma,but like you know i dont fulfill the educational requirements.i can join the ima as a student member and after that what?..should i wait till i complete my degree or study for the exam and take it up any time next year?..if you were in my shoes,how would you go about it?…i would like to do a self study,which material should i use as a beginner without any knowledge?..and whats a cpe,how do i do it?….i personally want to self study but there are intermediaries who offer coaching at a fee,is it okay to go about it alone?
i am sorry for burdening you with so many questions

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Aniketh, the CMA eligibility is much simpler — you only need a bachelor degree to get qualified. I would say you have to make sure you get qualified before thinking about the review materials. We’ve all the pros and cons analysis and recommendation that you can refer to when you are ready for the exam. Good luck!

    Reply
Prajakta says December 22, 2012

Thanks Stephanie. I had one more question. I am working here in India and am nearing the two year mark. So is a letter signed by my boss here in India enough to submit to IMA as proof of work experience?

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Prajakta, I believe there is a standard form from the IMA that you can fill in with the signature of your boss. If you can’t find it please let me know. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
      Preeti Shanbhag says February 9, 2014

      Hi Stephanie,

      I find your website very resourceful. Thanks for providing lots of information for all CMA aspirants.

      Could you please share the form we need to have our employer sign for experience eligibility.

      Preeti

      Reply
Mubi says January 21, 2013

I’m a little confused. In the pro and cons, it says I can write the CMA exam before graduating, but over her in says i need to have a bachelor’s degree.

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Mubi, yes I guess I should be clearer… you can write the exam before graduation but before becoming a charter member (i.e. putting CMA on your business card) you need to have completed the bachelor degree.

    Reply
      sharmeen says April 24, 2016

      hello !

      my question is according to you what will be the right time to give the exam , means before graduating or it should be given after the graduation. and i also i want to ask if exam is given before graduation during how many months results are announced and will it be affect on the certificate which you were talking about above.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says April 25, 2016

        Hi Sharmeen, it doesn’t matter in my opinion. You can take the exam whenever you have the time and are quite certain that it is beneficial for you longer-term. Regards, Stephanie

        Reply
Arshad says January 25, 2013

Hi stephanie,
So you are helping CMA too , in addition to CPA. You are very nice. I noticed that CMA requirements are less strict comparing to CPA.But, Is it worth it to do CMA instead of CPA,provided that my qualification ( 4 years undergrad from New Zealand) is acceptable for CPA US , by one of the state in US. Can CMA US claim any exemptions from CPA US.how are the job prospects of CMA US in US?.
Thanks

Reply
    Ren Dizon says January 27, 2013

    Hi Arshad, you are most welcome! I would say CPA is still the preferred qualification (in my opinion) if you can get qualified. It has the longest history and is recognized for all types of jobs in accounting. CMA is more for management accounting but then if it’s hard to get qualified for CPA it is a great alternative. Hope it helps! Stephanie

    In terms of job perspect, I will say it helps, but none of those qualification including CPA can guarantee a job. You need a great resume and a good interview to get through and land a job that you like. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
      Nadia Mirza says February 1, 2013

      Is it not required to have accounting background to pass CMA exam?

      Reply
        Ren Dizon says February 4, 2013

        Hi Nadia, yes and no — you need management accounting knowledge but the CMA review courses are sufficient to cover the topics. It’s here again for your reference: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/

        Stephanie

        Reply
          Nadia Mirza says February 6, 2013

          Thanks for your feedback Stephanie. I have been working as accounting manager with various nonprofits since 1995 and prepare a lot of finanical reports for management. However I have not studied managerial accounting and I was thinking to take addmision in College of Dupage to complete a 3 month undergraduate level course on managerial accounting before studying CMA review courses but from your response it seems like CMA review courses would be sufficient to get a deep knwoledge of managerial accounting. Is that right

          Reply
          Ren Dizon says May 21, 2013

          Hi Nadia,
          If it is strictly for the CMA exam, no I don’t think you need to go through a college course. I have gone through the CMA review materials extensively (for my own CMA exam preparation) and as a Economics major who have never taken a cost accounting class, I find it sufficient to prepare for the exam. I had the same experience when I took the CPA exam and the CPA review courses are sufficient to help us pass. Cheers, stephanie

          Reply
Mohamed Paravengal says February 4, 2013

Hey,

I have passed 12 papers of ACCA, and intend to complete the course by June 2013. And then i look forward to do CMA. I would like to know whether i am eligible to take CMA exams by may be January 2014 or something.

Cheers,
Mohamed Paravengal

Reply
    Ren Dizon says February 4, 2013

    Hi Mohamed, as long as you fulfill the eligibility requirement you can take the CMA exam anytime. Here is more info: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-requirements

    Stephanie

    Reply
Mohamad says February 20, 2013

Hi Stephanie,

I only have IT experience and some IT project management experience.
Can I still apply for the exam?
Your recommendations please.

Best Regards,

Reply
    Ren Dizon says February 26, 2013

    Hi Mohamad,
    You can certainly apply and take the exam, but in order to get the CMA you’ll need the relevant working experience. If you can get into more of an analysis role within project management it may work. Pure IT experience may not be counted. You may want to check with IMA (email ima[@]imanet.org) for details. Good luck!

    Reply
Sebastian says March 17, 2013

Stephanie,

does working in AR cash applications department in a law firm satisfy the working experience requirement? What would happen if the 2 year working experience were not satisfied after passing the exam? Would the CMA certification be revoked after seven years?

Reply
    Ren Dizon says April 4, 2013

    Hi Sebastian, I believe the work can’t be “routine” i.e. can’t be, say, bookkeeping and secretarial, you know what I mean. There should be some sort of financial analysis or accounting involved. It is not clear from your description whether the work is accepted. If you worry about not able to meet the requirement, you can contact IMA. I believe by 7 years it means the 7 years prior to getting the CMA exam and not after?

    Stephanie

    Reply
Irfan says March 17, 2013

Hello ,

I’m ACCA Affiliate … can i sit for CMA exams ? i’m eligible ?

Reply
    Ren Dizon says April 4, 2013

    Hi Irfan,
    Just want to make sure, ACCA affiliate = ACCA members right? If so, it’s good news because you are automatically qualified to take the CMA exam thanks to the recent agreement between ACCA and CMA in Jan 2013. More info here: https://www.imanet.org/PDFs/Public/Press_Releases/2013/Educational%20Waiver%20Announcement_FINAL_24Jan2013.pdf

    Reply
      irfan says April 5, 2013

      No, ACCA affiliate just means you have passed all the papers and not fulfills the 3 years practical experience requirement.

      Reply
        Ren Dizon says April 7, 2013

        I see. I haven’t double checked but it does sound like you need to be a full ACCA member to get the exemptions for CMA exam. Stephanie

        Reply
dharamveer says April 14, 2013

I want to know that, test centre available in India or not?

Reply
Shanvi says April 22, 2013

Hi Stephanie

Thanks a lot for your valuable time for clarifying our doubts on CMA

I have been working with a accounts firm for over 4 years I am also in the final year of my BCOM – can I apply for CMA beacause by this year end I will be completing my graduation in commerce

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 2, 2013

    Hello, I think so because they allow you to take the exam before graduation. And your work experience should be more than enough to fulfill the experience requirements. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
amy says April 23, 2013

Hi,

I am working on to pass cma exam part 1 . yet i ahve not regitered my self for the exam but willing to schedule Sep/oct.
So my question is can i give my exam on oct2013 for patr 1 or oct is only for part 2 exam

Reply
    Ren Dizon says April 24, 2013

    Hi Amy, you can certainly take Part 1 (or Part 2, or both) in Oct 2013. Here is the exam test window for your information:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-schedule/

    Stephanie

    Reply
jitendra says May 13, 2013

hi,
this jitendra….
my que is i have complited my icwa -india associat degree , i would like to go for cma. membership.after getting the cma membership. can i get job in usa….. i m from india.

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 13, 2013

    If you have ICWAI you can simply apply for CMA membership since the two associations signed reciprocal agreement. Here are more details:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/us-cma-for-indian-candidates/

    Great news isn’t it?
    Stephanie

    Reply
Amit says May 13, 2013

Hi Stephanie,

I am currently in US and in am seriously considering taking up CMA certification during my time here. The problem is that i am from Engineering background and have not been exposed to any accounting topics. I am pretty confident on taking up the exams but am not sure which materials to refer to. Professional study material such as Gliem or Hocks or even IMA dont seem to serve my purpose as they dont start from Basics of accounting (correct me if i am wrong).
I am a bit confused as to which books to refer to or purchase a test prep from either Gliem or Hocks.
Any additional help on this part is appreciated.
Thanks,
Amit

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 13, 2013

    Hi Amit,
    Thanks for your note and your detailed description of your situation. I see what you mean… Hocks has this supplementary material that you can get to cover the basics that you should know (but not cover in the standard Hock material) to sit for the exam. This primarily includes basic accounting and economics.

    I actually find the Wiley/CMALS very well written and organized, although for test prep software Gleim is pretty good in a way that it gets you fully prepared. For Hock, it’s somewhere in between for both in my opinion.

    So in an ideal world I would love to get Wiley book, Gleim test prep software and Hock supplementary notes 🙂 Anyway, let me know what you think so I can make a more solid suggestion.

    If you haven’t already, you can also take a look at this page here:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/

    Stephanie

    Reply
      Amit says May 21, 2013

      Hi Stephanie,

      Appreciate your help in your previous post. I have, infact gone ahead and purchased Hock part Study material along with a additional ebook which covers the “Assumed Knowledge” required.
      Quick review of the material and i will take a call to purchase Wiley too. Also i will be purchasing the Gliem test software (along with the book). Note that i am taking one bite at a time. I need your advice on, at which point of preparation should i register for exams?
      Thanks,
      Amit

      Reply
        Stephanie says June 27, 2013

        Hi Amit,
        you can register for the exam anytime but should be within the 12 months of purchasing your study materials, because it may get slightly outdated if you wait for too long. It’s exceedingly boring to study for more than 6 months anyway 🙂

        Stephanie

        Reply
Sabrina says May 20, 2013

How do I know if my work experience would qualify if my work experience title does not state any of the ones listed above, but have included financial work relating to research? Also, does the position has to be a paying position?

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 20, 2013

    Hi Sabrina, the list is not exhaustive, and also the last bullet point does mention research in related field, so sounds like it can be counted. But it is always a good idea to double check with IMA by emailing them a quick note. They are pretty good at responding my questions. On whether the position must be a paying job or not, I assume so, but again you can double check with IMA. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
Nikko says May 21, 2013

I’m a bit confused on the time bound requirements. If you need to complete the CMA “program” within 3 years of the entrance fee how do you also have 7 years after passing the exam to satisfy the experience requirements? Will you need to pay the entrance fee again after 3 years even if you are in the process of satisfying the experience requirements?

Also, I’m a commercial credit analyst for national bank. It involves analyzing financial statements and making decisions based on that. Based on your knowledge, would that qualify for work experience?

Thank you

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 21, 2013

    Hi Amit,
    You are right — the wording is confusing. Let me think about how to change it. But basically it means that you do need to complete the program within 3 years, and then the experience prior to joining the CMA program can be counted and you can count backwards up to 7 years from the day you apply for the certification.

    Hope this is clearer?
    Stephanie

    Reply
LakshayBanga says May 23, 2013

Hi Stephanie,

I would like to know that as per the reciprocal agreement between ima and icwa(india), a person from india would be eligible for icwa(india) membership if he/she writes and clears the exam outside india?..so,since I live in new delhi(india) and would like to pursue cma(usa)..however,in order to get the icwa(india) membership,would I have to write and clear the exam outside india or I should have the valid visa for the country from where I will appear the exam from since I would register myself from there itself or i can register myself from india and would just have to write an clear the exam outside india?Also,please clearify that i can give the exam anywhere in the middle east?

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 24, 2013

    Hi Lakshaya,
    I am afraid I don’t know about the eligibility of ICWAI membership. You’ll need to contact ICWAI for that. But once you become a member then the reciprocity with US CMA applies. Stephanie

    Reply
    puneet says October 22, 2013

    CMA USA outside india will help u get ICWAI degree. You have to register outside india and take exams outside india. Singapore, hongkong and Srilanka can be considered.

    Reply
      Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

      Puneet, Thanks for the info! Stephanie

      Reply
james says May 24, 2013

Hi Stephanie, I have worked as a Financial Representative/Stock broker for the last 5 years, would this experience be enough to satisfy the CMA work requirements. Thanks for maintaining this site btw.

Reply
    Ren Dizon says May 25, 2013

    Hi James, thanks for your note, you are most welcome!
    I believe if you can demonstrate finance analysis in your work (not just a broker) you have a good chance, but since it is not a mainstream management accounting/financial analysis role it is best if you can check with IMA. Stock broker’s role varies greatly around the world and some do have a lot of work in financial analysis, while some outsource to the investment team. Try to package yourself as the former as much as possible. Hope it helps! Stephanie

    Reply
james says May 25, 2013

Hi Stephanie, thank you for your quick response. Do you know how I can check on the experience requirement with the IMA. Do i have to register and pay the fees etc before they will look at my employment history.

Reply
    Stephanie says June 27, 2013

    No James, I don’t think so. You can simply email them and see. Doesn’t hurt to give it a try! Stephanie

    Reply
Subho says May 29, 2013

Hey Steffi,

Thanks for all the wonderful info. I come from India and my graduation marksheet is done in the national language, post which I have done my mba ,which thankfully is in english.
Would it be ok if i showed my Masters degree certificate or would I have to show both of them ?

Reply
    Stephanie says June 27, 2013

    Hi Subho, you are most welcome! I would just send in all the transcripts. But if it is a hassle which I understand might be the use for India, you can submit the master’s degree certificate and check the status online to see if it is sufficient.

    Alternatively, you can ask IMA and see if they can give you a firm answer. You might want to emphasize the difficulty of getting the transcript (if it’s the case) in your email so they understand the circumstances. Stephanie

    Reply
Subho says May 29, 2013

to secure a world ranking (looking at bright sides) is it mandatory to give both parts together or giving part1 in jan and part2 in may be also eligible the rankings??

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 27, 2013

    Hi Subho, what do you mean by world ranking? To achieve the highest score on a worldwide basis? I think you can take it separately, but it’s better if you could confirm with IMA. Stephanie

    Reply
      Subho says July 6, 2013

      should i just pen them an email with regards to both my queries and they would be obliged to reply, I intend to take the part2 exam in the sep-oct this year meaning 2013.
      I hope that I am upto it and would really appreciate any and every insight that you would have to offer.
      Thanks in advance.
      regards,
      Subho

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says July 8, 2013

        Sure! Best of luck to your Part 2, and I’d be happy to keep in touch either through here or by email. Stephanie

        Reply
Adam says May 31, 2013

Stephanie – just a quick question on the order in which I do the steps. Do I have to register with IMA before I enroll in a study course? It looks like once I register, I need to stick to an exam date, whereas if I just start studying, I can do the exam when I feel I am ready. Thanks Adam

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 27, 2013

    Hi Adam,
    Yes, I would generally recommend you register with the IMA first, but you don’t need to pay the exam fee until you are ready to do so. You are fine as long as you take the first exam (either part 1 or 2) within a year.

    If you choose to study first, it is fine too, just make sure you do take the exam within ~ a year so that your study materials remain the most updated. Hope it helps! Stephanie

    Reply
li says June 9, 2013

Hi-I am currently an engineering undergraduate student in U of T, I am wondering is there anything i can do to start my CMA (since i major in engineering not commerce or math), I don’t want to wait after graduation to start the test, is there any specific textbook or courses prepare me for the test?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 27, 2013

    Hi li, yes you can take the exam before graduation, and since you don’t need to be an accounting/finance major you can start now. I have recommended these study materials here:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/

    Stephanie

    Reply
waqar khan says June 9, 2013

hi Stephanie! how are you? im from Pakistan..im recently registered for b.com from Punjab University.(it is in list)..,
1.) my question is that,,,how can i get student discount from IMA For CMA??
2.)am i eligible for student discount and to start CMA IMA??
i am fully prepared for it since 7months…but my BBig problem is that (i have NO knowldge for IMA Student REG. proccesss For CMA.. please help me…. my time is wasting by WAIT….please Ma’m help me

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 27, 2013

    Hi Waqar, I think as long as you submit proof that you are a current student then it is fine. There is a button for student members to pay and attach the proof. What’s the issue? Stephanie

    Reply
waqar khan says June 9, 2013

i Stephanie! how are you? im from Pakistan..im recently registered for b.com from Punjab University.(it is in list)..,
1.) my question is that,,,how can i get student discount from IMA For CMA??
2.)am i eligible for student discount and to start CMA IMA??
i am fully prepared for it since 7months…but my BBig problem is that (i have NO knowldge for IMA Student REG. proccesss For CMA.. please help me…. my time is wasting by WAIT….please Ma’m help me

Reply
    Stephanie says June 27, 2013

    Hi Waqar,
    I think so, if you are a current student. Just send in the proof when you apply for the student membership.

    If you have already studied for 7 months you should definitely get registered and take the exam — studying more will bore you to tears!

    Best of luck to your exam, Stephanie

    Reply
Kwesi says June 15, 2013

Is the student membership only available to American and Canadian students??? Or are European students included as well?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 27, 2013

    Hmm… I think it’s good for all? Not 100% sure. Let me find out. Stephanie

    Reply
Jing says June 30, 2013

hi Stephane,
Thanks a lot for all the notes which were extremely helpful! I have one question regarding the educational background. I was graduated in with bachelor’s degree majored in finance management, however my GPA is quite low especially for some courses ( macro economics, information system etc). Will it be a problem for me to enter the exam? Will I be rejected to attend the exam?

Thanks a lot!

Jing

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 4, 2013

    Hi Jing, no worries on your grades. As long as you graduate from university and have proof of that, it is fine 🙂

    In your case the CMA certification would be a great way to make up for that lower grades at school. Stephanie

    Reply
Sanjiv says July 6, 2013

Is CMA course examination center is available in Pune/Mumbai (India) ? also give us list of coatching classess available in Pune along with contract numbers.

Reply
Subho says July 6, 2013

hey steffi thanks for the great info and by world rankings yes i mean scoring maximum or being in the top ten in terms of the marks scored in the exam.
Thanks a lot for the info. really appreciate it.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 8, 2013

    Sure! All the best to your exam! Do let us know if you or any of your friends get the max score! Stephanie

    Reply
Ady says July 11, 2013

Hi Steff,

its good to see such a guide on the internet, with so many responses/queries. Cheerz! & thanks a Ton!

my query – proff work experience – i work for a multinational corp – 3 years – inventory accounting ( month end close – journal vouchers, account reconciliations & analysis – reporting)
so, will this be considered relevant?

will they send out a mailer requesting my job description to my employer?

also, i believe i must submit a form stating my experience.
and this is Only after enrolling as a member ( i.e paying fee)
what if, the above experience is not accepted? do i need to find a new job?

i wish they had a help desk to verify my job details before i enroll, would spare me the fees .

Thanks for the helpful article!

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 11, 2013

    Hi Ady, thanks for your note! I am glad this site has been helpful to aspiring CMAs. On your question, no I think you (and not IMA) are the one to ask your employer to fill/sign the experience verification form.

    I do think your job is very relevant, but to double check (which is always a good idea) you can simply email IMA at ima@imanet.org. In my opinion it is very close to a help desk as they are usually very helpful. Good luck, let us know how it goes! Stephanie

    Reply
naresh says July 22, 2013

Hi
iam naresh from Bangalore, india. I had finished my b.com.
I had 3 years work experience in an audit firm.
now iam interested to do cma & cpa
my problem is iam unable to find a consultancy for starting a process to US.
Can we get a student visa to do cma & cpa in USA,if yes please tell me how to start the process and procedure.
please give me some guidance & valuable information
thank you

Reply
Babar says July 26, 2013

Hi
i am Babar from Islamabad, Pakistan. I am persuing my Carrier in Chartered Accountancy and had done CA (Inter) and now in Final Stage of CA (ICAP).
I have almost 3.5 years work experience with Deloitte Pakistan in audit and Assurance department .
now i am interested to do CMA
my problem is i have no Bachelor degree in any discipline .
Can i still eligible to apply for CMA
please give me some guidance & valuable information
I would be really greatful.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 27, 2013

    Hi Babar, I see… maybe you can contact IMA to see if there is any waiver in your case? Without special waiver, a bachelor degree is necessary. Stephanie

    IMA can be contacted at ima@imanet.org.

    Reply
Babar says July 28, 2013

Thanks stephanie…

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 28, 2013

    Sure!

    Reply
Vivek Patel says August 1, 2013

Dear madam,

There is any way that I can verify first my work experience and after that I start process for CMA. Currently I am pursuing CPA, as I qualified for CPA so it means I am also qualified for CMA but I want to check first my experience. So I appreciate if you help me in to this matter.

Vivek

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 3, 2013

    Hi Vivek,
    Nice to see you here at the CMA site! The qualified experience can be counted backwards up to 7 years, so your experience before getting the CMA exam should be able to count. But technically I don’t know whether you can get the form though… you may need to ask IMA to mail you one directly. Stephanie

    Reply
desma says August 3, 2013

Dear maam,
i wanted to know if working in the assurance department for 2 years will fulfill the 2 year wok experience criteria for attaining the CMA qualification .

Thanks for you help .

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 3, 2013

    Hi Desma, it’s not strictly financial/management accounting or financial analysis / management. I would suggest you get a “ruling” from IMA, because I am not in a position to comment on their behalf. When you email them it is best to give them a detailed description, highlight any analytical work involved to get a better chance of approval. Hope it works. Good luck!

    Reply
surya says August 5, 2013

dear maam,
I am a CA-IPCC student belonging to tamilnadu, I wish to pursue CMA.
I need to know about the eligibility to enter into this course and what is the criteria for taking CMA exams. I have completed my schooling and have passed CA-CPT , I dont have any undergraduate degree from any college..

kindly help me to resolve my problem.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 5, 2013

    Dear Surya,
    The standard qualification is a bachelor degree. I don’t know if there is any exemption in your case, but you will need to contact the IMA directly: ima@imanet.org. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
Chebait says August 6, 2013

Is there a way i can still sit for the CMA exams while still a student undertaking a Bachelor’s of Commerce

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 6, 2013

    Hi Chebait,
    Yes you can — you can start taking the exam but you will only get the CMA certification after getting the two years of required experience. Stephanie

    Reply
Nelson says August 18, 2013

I have a three year accounting degree from the university of Buea-Cameroon. Is it possible to take CMA Exams

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 22, 2013

    I am quite sure you can Nelson. See if you can find your school when you apply for the exam, or you can double check with the IMA at ima@imanet.org before applying.

    Reply
Uma Raj says August 22, 2013

Hello Stephanie!!!

Thanks for the help through your website. I am a B.Com., graduate from India (Mom of 2 kids). Had 2 years of experience from a bank in India 7 yrs. before. Now residing in Texas. Planning to study and work later. But confused what course to do (CPA or CMA), am I eligible to do CMA now. How effective is CMA for getting a job than CPA. Will be really grateful if you could help me in this. Thank you.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 22, 2013

    Hi Uma, as a BCOM, it is much easier to get qualified for the CMA vs the CPA exam. In terms of effectiveness, it really depends on which type of companies you want to work for. If you are open to any accounting jobs, including companies with more costing/inventory focus e.g. manufacturing firms, then CMA can potentially help a lot. It’s a qualification that either people don’t really care (e.g. if you work in a bank or a CPA firm), or highly value. So it’s something nice to have, in case you do get an opportunity that values CMA.

    CPA is certainly more versatile — it helps in all types of accounting, and is required as you move up if you join a CPA firm, but as BCOM you need two more years of education, which as a mom of two kids (like me) it’s extremely hard to do. In any case, all the best, and let me know if I can be helpful! Stephanie

    Reply
Renee says August 23, 2013

Hi Stephanie,

I just paid for my membership to IMA and the next step is paying the entrance fee. Does paying this fee mean that they will supply me with the materials I need to study for the exam? I’m unclear on exactly what this entails.

Thanks!

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 23, 2013

    Hi Renee,
    Well, not really, and you need to get your own study guides.
    IMA does have “study guides” published through Wiley, but note that the examiners are completely separately from the authors who write the study guides. They are still good, but don’t feel disadvantaged if you like the other ones more. Here is the major review course provider and my picks: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-courses/

    Hope it helps! Stephanie

    Reply
      Mirismayil says August 28, 2013

      CMA Exam Support Package
      The CMA Exam Support Package includes downloadable and printable multiple-choice and essay practice questions and an online assessment tool with multiple-choice exams for Parts 1 and 2. New candidates joining the program receive six months access to the Exam Support package beginning on the day they pay the entrance fee.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says August 28, 2013

        Oh yes, thank you for reminding me on this. I never seemed to have received a link on how to download this though

        They are basically retired questions from the CMA exam with answer key and some explanations.

        Pros: it’s free (for 6 months)
        Cons:
        1. only 52 questions, not enough to get yourself well prepared
        2. Not in online format so can’t practice time management

        Reply
j b raviteja says August 28, 2013

hi, Stephanie Ng
iam from india completed bcom 2010 i had work experience . i want to do cma us course whether there is good job demand after completion of these course? actually in my country there is coaching center for this cma can i prepare on my own? or else go to coaching? please give me exactly what about job market in usa after this course whether it is demanded or not?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 28, 2013

    Hi JB, I would say, from the statistics, CMA does earn quite a bit more but it really depends on many factors, e.g. quality of resume, interview skills, prior experience, and some luck.

    But in terms of courses I generally do recommend the self-study courses via the internet, because they are generally (1) more affordable (2) used by most US domestic candidates (3) allow you to study at the comfort of your home. I can’t say much about coaching center in your country because I have never been to one, but the one I had in mine (for US CPA) gave me a bad experience, so for me at least I won’t try that again.

    Hope it helps! Stephanie

    Reply
      j b raviteja says August 29, 2013

      thank u very much stephaine for which iam grateful to you. for giving valuable views. then iam rethinking to do cpa instead of cma.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says September 2, 2013

        Sure JB. Let me know if you have any follow up questions later! stephanie

        Reply
Mridul Rajeev says September 4, 2013

hi sir,
iam from india,i’ve completed my degree with bcom and now iam iam doing mcom, will i be eligible to do cma from india and how long it will take for me after my graduation to become a cma and what is its duration in india?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 10, 2013

    Hi Mridul, yes, you are eligible with the bachelor degree. Even better with the master’s! You don’t need to wait until graduation; can start any time.

    the process is the same everywhere. It can take as quick as a few months if you take the 2 parts of the exam at the same time, but in any case you have to complete the CMA program within 3 years.

    Reply
      Mridul Rajeev says September 11, 2013

      ok thanks a lot sir,in india i think ,i saw somewere in the internet that it takes only 9 months to complete is that true sir?

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says September 12, 2013

        Hi Mridul,
        Can do for sure. Technically you can complete the exam in, say 3 months, if you study really hard on the materials and take the two parts of the exam together. Stephanie

        Reply
himanshu says September 5, 2013

Hello Stephanie ,
I have completed my MBA (Information System) in 2001 .But I started working as a Chief accountant in central Africa in 2009 so will be consider for CMA . Should it be prior or within 7 years after completion of Degree .

Himanshu

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 10, 2013

    Hi Himanshu, I believe the rule is that you can count your experience up to 7 years before you apply for your CMA certification. So it isn’t linked to when you take your MBA, if this is what you mean. Hope it helps? If not let me know. Stephanie

    Reply
jazzy says September 7, 2013

first of all i would like to say , you are running very useful page & i really appreciate your response to our queries

well dear stephanie , here an other little question i would like to ask .
actually am graduated & holding Bachelor degree from accredited university & is present in the list of universities that IMA provided at https://univ.cc/world.php . but my degree program was of two years duration rather then 4 years . so can you tell me is that bachelor degree program of 2 years duration enough for satisfying the educational requirement of CMA ?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 10, 2013

    Hi Jazzy, thanks for your note!

    I think so, since they don’t specify the number of years as long as it is a degree from recognized university. But if you aren’t sure you can always send an email to confirm. If I were you I would definitely do that. Email is ima@imanet.org. They are very good in responding to emails. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
Ade says September 11, 2013

Hello Stephanie,

In regards to the academic background, I know I am solid. In terms of the professional requirement, I currently work as an Operations Manager for an Investment Bank. Do you know if that would be considered as under the Financial Management requirement? I do handle some basic financial analysis functions

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 12, 2013

    Hi Ade, looks ok to me if you can demonstrate (and emphasize) the financial analysis role. You can always email IMA for their opinion so you can take away one uncertainty. Many of my readers do that. Most of the “borderline” cases seem to have received green light. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
anwar says September 15, 2013

Hi Stephanie
Thanks for setting up this information. I need to know if i have a two-year bachelors degree(equivalent to associate degree) instead of four years, am i eligible to do CMA

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 15, 2013

    Hi Anwar, I am sure 3-year bachelor degree (which is also seen as an associate degree) works. For 2-year degrees it depends on whether your school is included in IMA’s list. They don’t seem to have a minimum years of study as long as it is a bachlor degree from recognized university.

    The best way to get confirmation is to ask IMA directly at ima@imanet.org. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
mahmoud qatawneh says October 30, 2013

Hello
First i would like to thank you for this very helpful website
I have to questions
1- I have 10 years experience in accounting , 7 of them as a senior
do they considered for the professional experience requirement .
2- candidates will be required to take 30 hours of CPE (continuing professional education).
they mean every year or just once ?

Thank you

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Mahmoud, thanks for your note! Yes accounting jobs are good for the experience requirements. On the CPE, I am afraid you need that on an annual basis. That’s why it is called “continuing” education 🙂 Stephanie

    Reply
JD says October 31, 2013

I qualify to do cma exam based on my education, i am CA(Inter) from ICAI. i am working in construction company since last 16 years will this be treated as work experience for the CMA certification. or i have to work leaving my job to get 2 year experience for cma certification. ince I am in Oman will it helpful to find better job back in india when i return to india. suggest me the best institute in oman to do the cma course or any indian institute through i can do like ipfc.

Reply
john m says November 3, 2013

hi Stephanie.
im working as a bookkeeper in the accounting center of our company, will that fulfill the work experience? do i need another work to get qualified?
thank you!

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi John, this might be a bit tough because they need accountant vs bookkeeper experience… or do you do any analytical work at all? Try to package it this way and it will help your case. It’s better if you check if IMA as well before applying for the exam. Stephanie

    Reply
MRIDUL RAJEEV says November 4, 2013

hi sir I am a B.com graduate with 40% ,am i eligible to join the course with this percentage of marks?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Mridul, I am not famliar with the grading in BCOM, but as long as you obtain your BCOM degree, then yes you can sit for the CMA exam. Stephanie

    Reply
JD says November 16, 2013

hi Stephanie.
I qualify to do cma exam based on my education, i am CA(Inter) from ICAI. i am working in construction company since last 16 years will this be treated as work experience for the CMA certification. or i have to work leaving my job to get 2 year experience for cma certification. ince I am in Oman will it helpful to find better job back in india when i return to india. suggest me the best institute in oman to do the cma course or any indian institute through i can do like ipfc.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi JD, it depends on the nature of your job — is it related to accounting or financial management?
    On your second question, I generally recommend online courses because I reviewed them before and have confidence of the quality. Also, most US candidates use online courses anyway. You can get more info here: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/
    Stephanie

    Reply
      JD says June 19, 2014

      Thanks for your reply, my nature of job is related to accounting , MIS, AR.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says June 20, 2014

        Sounds like it will work, JD 🙂 Let me know if you have further questions.

        Reply
Sumit LAley says November 22, 2013

I have done MBA finance and I have completed 3 years experience in toll operations as a auditor, can i join this course. I have experiace of validation audit in toll operation. Plz suggest me, Because i want join cma certification.

Reply
Krishna says November 22, 2013

Dear Stephanie,

Let me thank you for spending your valuable time and efforts to answer the questions of students in this forum.

Sometime ago, until June 2013 I was there in your mailing list while I was doing my CPA. I got my CPA ( not licensed) from AICPA and now interested to study something more. . Actually, I wanted to go for MBA.. When I calculated the cost and time involved in that program, I thought of considering CMA.

I just wanted to know, whether MBA is better than CMA or vice versa or can be considered ‘equivalent’ ? How does market respond to a person with CMA ? I know, nobody can give a definite answer for these questions. Since you are in the field of education and advising, I thought of seeking your suggestion/opinion.

Kindly let me have your suggestions.

Regards,

Krishna.

Reply
Sunny says November 24, 2013

Hi Stephanie,

Are you aware of a MBA program from India/US/Canada/Europe that covers the CMA syllabus?

Thanks,Sunny

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Sunny, not really, but I believe they do. I suggest that you pick a course that you like, then ask the provider directly. The biggest 3 players (Gleim, Wiley, Hock) should have them. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
sharad says December 3, 2013

I am preparing myself for CMA exam in India….I have completed my bachelor degree…after passing CMA exam,is it sure that I do grab a job….?…plz do reply

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Sharad, I have to be honest with you that the CMA title cannot guarantee jobs… it may help, but there are a lot more factors such as your previous experience, resume and interview skills, and luck. Stephanie

    Reply
Hanan AK says December 17, 2013

Hi!
how are you? actually i need suggestion from you…i have already registered with IMA and prepared for Part one exams but due to some serious issues i wont be able to sit for the exams in jan/feb window. what would be your suggestion, if i sit for both parts exams in may/june window or give the exams one by one???

will you recommend this approach…?

kindly reply me and let me know…thanks…

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Hanan, if things tend to come up (totally understand, we all have lots of family and work commitments), it is a good idea to take them one by one… Stephanie

    Reply
kavitha says January 18, 2014

Hi,

I completed my MBA finance, but i don’t have accounting experience.
i have 6 years experience in personal secretary, will i take the cma course.

Kindly suggest me.

Reply
Jai Singh says January 20, 2014

WHAT PROCEDURE IN INDIA

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 21, 2014

    Hi Jai, same procedure for candidates worldwide.

    Reply
Deba says January 22, 2014

Hello,
i m working in a SAP FICO consulting job about 2 yrs. Before i wroked in Accounting (ERP Related) field about 2 yrs in power Transmission co..i m B.com Graduate. now i m littlebit confuse that what should i do MBA (Fin) or CMA? if i do CMA then is it elegible with my 2yrs work Experience(in SAP Fico) for getting CMA certification.

Plz Suggest me

Regards

Reply
kv says January 27, 2014

I am in India having 20 + years of experience with commerce degree, how do i get CMA with exemption? pl. explain.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says January 30, 2014

    Hi kv, if you are ICWAI member, then you can get CMA via their reciprocal mutual agreement. Alternatively, if you are ACCA member then you can automatically get qualified for the CMA exam, but there is no exemption in the exam itself. Stephanie

    Reply
Sharma says February 2, 2014

Hi,

I’m master in Technology in IT and currently pursuing executive general management program in IT from IIM Bangalore. I have 7 years of experience in software development. Is im eligible to write CMA exam?

Thanks

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says February 9, 2014

    Hi Sharma, I am sure your educational qualification can get your qualify for the exam. On the experience though it doesn’t sound if it is related to accounting/finance management so you might need to plan ahead and work on those before you get into the CMA program. You do need two years of relevant experience to get the CMA title. Stephanie

    Reply
Rajesh Verma says February 5, 2014

Credential Evaluation
This is very complicated point. i have done my graduation from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University. Well-known university in india. but not comes in IMA university list. so major question arises. send your degree for evaluation original with photocopies and also pay high charges.
should anyone prepare for CMA study or get tension to send his/her degree for evaluation. because of this point i am changing my interest of CMA study.
but if anyone help me on this point. i am glad to that

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says February 9, 2014

    Hi Rajesh, if the school is well known, it is likely on the list. Maybe you can double check by sending an email to IMA? Otherwise, if you really need to go through the evaluation process, I am not 100% sure because so far I haven’t got a reader who need that, but I imagine it will be similar to what is required in the CPA exam. More information here: https://ipassthecpaexam.com/foreign-credential-evaluation/

    Stephanie

    Reply
Noel says March 5, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

A eager and looking forward to taking the course, but i dont want to rush.

firstly can you tell me, what kind of basics do i need to know, to some day handel the pressure of the course, basically am a B.Com graduate. and its been 8 yrs now since i graduated.

have been an accountant for 3 years but my profile is low, i do AR as well as some of AP.

can you tell me what should i study prior to taking this course, my basics should focus on what?
or what should my base strength be, before taking up this course

appreciate your help and time with this querry

Regards
Noel

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says March 5, 2014

    Hi Noel, it’s good that you don’t want to rush. You can find out the exam content here:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-entrance-exam/

    The content may look daunting, but as long as you follow the chapters in the review courses, and work on most if not all the practice questions, you will get very well prepared. Many candidates take it 5-10 years after university, so don’t worry about that.

    Let me know if you have more questions! Stephanie

    Reply
Jinga says March 7, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I took and passed the first part of the CMA exam. The results were given to me 5 weeks via email. I failed the second one, but the result wasn’t emailed to me and it was after 6 weeks. I re-took the exam but it has been such a long wait for the results! Is there any way I can get my results earlier? Does the IMA only email results if passed? I am nearing the sixth week mark and I don’t feel confident now. I will have to take the exam again, and at that point, the potential results will only be around June 15th. Seems like a very long process – I could be re-studying at this point.

Anxiously waiting,

Jinga.

PS – Do you work for PWC? Name is familiar.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says March 25, 2014

    Hi Jinga, maybe you can email IMA and see? They are generally very helpful.
    PS – never worked in PwC 🙂

    Reply
sukhesh says March 10, 2014

hi! Im currently pursuing B.Com in a college which is affiliated to a university given in the list. So will it be valid as if i did my graduation from that university??
Thank you

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says March 25, 2014

    Hi Sukhesh, sounds like you can. Students may sit for the exam before they complete their degree, provided they’re registered for at least six credits per semester during the academic year. The ICMA requires candidates to have fulfilled the education requirements within seven years after completing the CMA exam but not before sitting for the exam.

    Reply
sukhesh says March 10, 2014

i am a second year student of B.com from india. Should i wait till i graduate or can i apply to cma right now, so that i can complete both of them simultaneously.

Reply
sukhesh says March 10, 2014

and one last thing.. Im also a student of chartered accountant course in india. According to this course i have to work as an intern under a qualified CA for 3 years before i can give my final exam. Can i take those 3 years as enough work experience for CMA.
Thanx in advance once again.

Reply
Nitin says March 18, 2014

hi Stephanie

I have engineering degree.Currently i am working in bank as a manager.
Is the work experience relevant for cma.
please help me…

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says March 25, 2014

    Hi Nitin, it depends whether your manager role involves financial analysis and/or management. It is hard to tell from the title, but if you can articulate your job with a detailed description and submit together to IMA, it will have a good chance. You can check with IMA in advance by emailing them before the application. Email: ima[@]imanet.org.

    Reply
Anoop John says March 26, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I have an important question to ask, is it possible to take the Part 2 of the CMA exam first and then the Part 1 later? I mean can I take and clear ‘Financial decision making’ first and then later take the ‘Financial planning, performance and control’ exam? Please clarify. Moreover I have heard that Part 2 is easier than Part1, is that true?

Regards
Anoop John

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says March 26, 2014

    Hi Anoop, yes you can do part 2 first. In terms of which part is easier/harder, I think it largely depends on the candidate’s background. Part 1 is similar to CPA’s BEC section while Part 2 is similar to CFA level 1. It is however true that CMA part 2 has a higher pass rate. Stephanie

    Reply
      Anoop John says March 26, 2014

      Thanks and are the two parts inter-related? I mean will I have difficulty in clearing part 2 without reading part 1? And I am reading Hock material 5th edition. Is that sufficient? Or do I have to get the latest edition to pass the exam?

      Regards
      Anoop John

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says April 3, 2014

        Hi Anoop, the two parts are not in sequence so you can take part 2 without revising for part 1 first. As for whether out-of-date materials are good enough, I would say most of the things are there for sure, and you are fine your score is comfortably above the passing score. Otherwise, losing a few points due to out-dated materials may fail the test. Passing rate is quite low so it isn’t in our favor…
        More info on passing rate here: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-pass-rate/

        Reply
      Anoop John says March 27, 2014

      Also please tell me do I need to enroll with any institute apart from taking a good review course like Gleim or Hock? There is an institute by the name IPFC which provides online coaching for clearing CMA, is it required?
      Please suggest..

      Regards
      Anoop John

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says April 3, 2014

        Hi Anoop, it is not required to take any of the coaching courses. I don’t know much about IPFC to comment. I would say most candidates take some sort of a course, but I think most people in America take self-study courses. Regards, Stephanie

        Reply
          Anoop says April 7, 2014

          Thanks and please also tell me that suppose I clear both the levels of CMA exam, will I get any certificate/letter that proves that I have cleared the exam(without completing the experience requirement)? I mean to say that merely passing the cma exam without actually meeting the experience requirement will also increase my employability or not?

          Regards
          Anoop john

          Reply
          Stephanie Ng says April 8, 2014

          Hi Anoop, well, yes and no… you cannot hold yourself as CMA without the experience, but if you are interviewing with a company, you can mention that you pass the CMA exam and all you need is the experience to become a CMA. If the company values CMA, it helps.
          Stephanie

          Reply
Ahsan Anjum says April 9, 2014

Dear Sir,
I am new in CMA and not regisered yet…
I want to appear in May-June attempt. I am getting coaching by my brother.
please help me, I want to appear in CMA part-2 firstly. it is possible??
and how much money required???
I am not a bachelor????? Is it necessary to become a bachelor first.??
My planning is here:
1. Pass CMA exams.
2. Complete B.Com degree (it is already continue and half have been completed)
3. Get 2 years experience…

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says April 16, 2014

    Hi Ahsan, you are right that typically a bachelor’s degree is required for CMA exam qualification, but you can take the exam before graduation (allowed as long as you are registered for at least six credits per semester during the academic year).

    Here are more info for you:
    Money required: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-fees/
    Frequently asked questions: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-faq/

    Lastly, you can take part 2 or part 1 first. Doesn’t matter. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Khalid says April 11, 2014

Greetings Stephanie,
I became an IMA member in March 2013 and decided to start with part 2. Since then I took part 2 twice in October 2013 and February 2014. For the exam I took in October I got 300, for February exam I got 350. I was really disappointed and furstrated to see my score extremely close to the passing score. If I got one or two of the multible choice questions I missed right I would have passed!. I am really hesitant whether I should pursue trying or not. I really wonder if I will pass on my next attempt or not. If so how will I do on part 1 given that it has a lower passing rate. Would I be able to pass both parts within the three years window (prior to March 2016).
Please I need your advice.

You advice and reply are highly appreciated.

Regards,
Khalid

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says April 16, 2014

    Hi Khalid,
    It is indeed very frustrating! Have you been working on your practice questions? Make sure you do that, and redo the ones you did wrong previously. Here is also an article dedicated to retakers. I hope it will be helpful for you to analyze your situation: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/fail-to-pass-the-cma-exam/

    Stephanie

    Reply
Avishek Chatterjee says April 22, 2014

I am from Canada, Toronto but I have done my B.Com (Honours) from India. I have registered with CMA but after sending them all my transcripts etc they have told me to complete 2 prequalifying courses i.e. Statistucs and Economics. Can you please explain why? Why can’t I sit for the main exam directly? What do i do?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says April 24, 2014

    Hi Avishek, I honestly have no idea, and haven’t heard of this… Did you apply for CMA (US) or CMA (Canada)? My site is only about CMA administrated by IMA in the US. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Ajit says April 25, 2014

Hello Stephanie!

Currently i am pursuing ICWA in India & completed mba in India & also i am working in a CA Firm as part time. I want to do CMA US in India and want to work in US but I’m a below avarge student, so can i apply for Cma US ?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says April 30, 2014

    Hi Ajit, did you know that once you complete your ICWA you can get the CMA certification?
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-in-india/

    But then, if you want to do it at the same time, with the MBA you are definitely qualified for the exam. The grades don’t matter so no need to worry about it. Stephanie

    Reply
jinesh says April 27, 2014

Hello,

i am an m.com student.i am from India.what is the job prospects of this course in India.can we get a job in India after completing this course?

i am not meeting the work experience part so just merely passing the exams will get me a job or not.will any company consider this in this way?can i get a good job on the basis of just passing the exams and complete the requirement later?personally i prefer to commence my career in big companies rather than small companies just to complete this formality

will it be waste of time and money.do they issue any certificate on the basis of just passing the exams?

so after reading all this.should i do this course?

regards.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says April 30, 2014

    Hi Jinesh, I am not familiar with the job situation in India, but in all honestly, I don’t think any certification can guarantee jobs in India or anywhere. Also, without fulfilling the experience requirement you cannot get the CMA title, but you can mention it in your CV that you pass the CMA exam.

    Tens of thousands of candidates sit for the pass the exam, so at least for these people it is not a waste of time and money. Whether it is the case for you largely depends on your own background and career aspiration. It’s a question only you can answer I am afraid. Best wishes to you and your career! Stephanie

    Reply
      jinesh says June 5, 2014

      thanks for your reply.

      if i apply for cma us and at the same time i took a job as an accountant will it be considered as relevant experience by them if i work for 2 years.

      likewise what will be the fees approximately for the entire course?i got a message from an institute named ‘miles’ in India providing coaching for this course.have you heard about this institute?whether coaching is needed or can we pass by self study?
      is this course rigorous?

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says June 5, 2014

        Hi Jinesh,
        Yes the working experience can be counted.
        On Miles, I don’t know enough to comment on the program, but I understand it has a sizable presence in India. From what I know they use IMA materials (Wiley CMA Learning System) in the class, so the value add is on the instructor and classroom setting.

        I would ask your peers to get some feedback on the course, specially on the instructor you are getting because it will have a big impact on your learning experience.

        I generally recommend self-study courses, not only because it is generally more affordable, but also I don’t need to worry about the quality of individual instructors. The ones on my list are all renowned and experienced instructors on a US national level. Hope it helps! Stephanie

        Reply
        Stephanie Ng says June 5, 2014

        Hi Jinesh,
        Yes the working experience can be counted.
        On Miles, I don’t know enough to comment on the program, but I understand it has a sizable presence in India. From what I know they use IMA materials (Wiley CMA Learning System) in the class, so the value add is on the instructor and classroom setting.

        I would ask your peers to get some feedback on the course, specially on the instructor you are getting because it will have a big impact on your learning experience.

        I generally recommend self-study courses, not only because it is generally more affordable, but also I don’t need to worry about the quality of individual instructors. The ones on my list are all renowned and experienced instructors on a US national level.

        More info here: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/
        On fees: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-fees/

        Hope it helps! Stephanie

        Reply
          jinesh says June 6, 2014

          ok,Thanks again.

          i have some more doubts also.please clarify

          1.There is said an annual membership fee has to be paid in order to maintain the membership.so it means that we have to pay an stipulated amount each year for life time even after we qualify?then only we can use the cma title and our membership remains valid,or otherwise will our title be removed?do the companies check whether we are a member or they rely on our certificate.will it be a problem if we don,t pay that fees later?

          2.when i asked a instructor he said the us companies in India will consider only the cma(us) and in that way we will get job in india itself.what is madam,s take on that?

          3.do they provide a certificate after passing two papers or they will give only after providing sufficient experience.do we need to pass the objective and theory separately?likewise what is the minimum pass mark ?

          4.likewise there is continuous education after we pass. is this a classroom training or we just read it by ourselves.can madam please explain this ?

          regards

          Reply
          Stephanie Ng says June 8, 2014

          Hi Jinesh,
          1. You are right you should expect to pay the membership fee every year thereafter. As to whether companies will find out whether your certification is valid, I don’t think most companies will check, having said that, CMAs should uphold their integrity (IMA is very serious about that). Also, it is very easy for companies to check if they choose to.

          Reply
Saad says May 5, 2014

Hello

Does the fees concession is available to the Indian students as well?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 10, 2014

    Yes! As long as you are taking 6 or more credit hours per semester in the year you are applying. You also need to fill out the graduation year in your application. I just include an application form at the bottom of this page:
    https://ipasthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-fees/

    FYI only, the young professional membership discount applies to those in US, Canada and Mexico only.

    Reply
amit says May 8, 2014

Hi Stephanie,
First of all i would like to thank you for providing all the information here, I was clueless and ur replies helped me a lot 🙂 I am a Student in India who has just completed graduation and now i would like to pursue ICWA. I would like to know if it is equivalent to CMA US or should i prefer CMA US to ICWA?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 10, 2014

    Hi Amit, these two qualifications have reciprocal arrangement. So you can decide which one is easier to get for you and go ahead. Most of my readers pursued ICWA before hand so they just applied for the CMA certification afterwards, but I do have a few who did the other way round, i.e. take the CMA US first, then get the ICWA. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
Anthony says May 18, 2014

Hi Stephanie!
Thank you very much for the information here. It is very helpful.
I am economics and finance major. I understand that exams can be taken anywhere. My question is: “If I work in a local hotel (Korea) in cost controlling position, can this experience be counted to satisfy certification requirements?” I don’t quit grasp how work experience is verified if you are not in US.
Thank you,
Anthony

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 19, 2014

    Hi Anthony, thanks for your note and your kind words! Cost controlling should be a relevant experience, but it is best to double check with IMA. I believe they can even pre-approve the experience for you if preferred. It does not matter whether you work in the US or not. As long as you can get the experience form signed (i.e. verified) by your supervisor, you are all set.

    If you have other questions, drop a note any time! Stephanie

    Reply
      Anthony says May 25, 2014

      Thank you!

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says May 31, 2014

        Sure Anthony!

        Reply
MIHIR BHATT says May 25, 2014

Hello Stephanie!

My name is Mihir Bhatt. I am a Chartered Accountant from ICAI ( Institute of Chartered Accountant of India ). I am planning to go for CMA (USA). I want to know what is value addition of CMA USA in India or USA ? Should i get a job from US MNC in india ?. Suppose i will migrate from India to USA , Should i get job in USA ?

Like CPA , CMA USA is recognized by US Govt ?

Your help will be highly appreciated.

Thanks & Regards,

Mihir Bhatt

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 26, 2014

    Hi Mihir,
    Thanks for your note. The most value-add is in companies with a sizable team in cost and inventory accounting, as well as for big, fortune 500 type of companies.These companies’ US headquarters and regional offices will likely value your CMA certification.

    The US government doesn’t really “recognize” CPA, but CPAs are required to sign off audit reports, so companies MUST have at least some CPAs around. For CMA there is no such statutory requirement. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
      MIHIR BHATT says May 26, 2014

      Thanks a lot.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says May 31, 2014

        🙂

        Reply
Priya says May 27, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I am a Company Secretary in India. I like to take up CMA. I do not have the requisite work experience. Can i sit for the exam?
My questions are:
My college is not in the list. How should i go about it.
How much credits/score should i need to pass the exam?
How do i find if Prometric has a testing center in India?
Where would i find study material or reading material for the preparation?

I would appreciate your guidance.
Thanks in advance

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 31, 2014

    Hi Priya,
    Yes you can sit for the exam without the experience, but in order to get the certification later on, you have to fulfill the experience requirement.

    On your college not being on the list, I would first double check with IMA first, just in case the list is not updated. If it is truly not on the list, you can get an evaluation from the credential evaluators to get a report to be submitted to IMA. Please check with IMA for more information.

    For passing the exam, you need to score 360 out of 500. Here is more info: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-scoring/

    You can actually locate the center before registration. There is a link on this post that directs you to the relevant prometric page for that (first link on the page): https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-location/

    Since most candidates are busy with full time work, many choose to take the self-study courses. The quality is guaranteed i.e. not affected by the quality of the instructors. You can check the pros and cons of major CMA review providers here: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/

    Feel free to let me know if you have further questions! Stephanie

    Reply
Abdul says May 30, 2014

hi… i have just given my cma part 1 exams and my essay type section was also opened… my question is that… opening of essay type section means that i have obtain 50% of total score i.e 250 or i have just attempted minimum 50% mcqs correct

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says May 31, 2014

    Hi Abdul, nice to hear from you right after the exam! Basically you achieved at least 50% pass rate in the MC questions. It may not mean that you get 250 correct. But it doesn’t really matter in my opinion. It’s always a good sign that you can proceed to the essay questions.

    Here is more info on the scoring and grading: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-scoring/
    Stephanie

    Reply
MIHIR BHATT says June 4, 2014

Hiiii

I have inquired about CMA USA from Edupristine Coaching classes.

They provide Becker’s notes for study.

Becker’s notes are valid or good for study.

Kindly advice.

Regards,

Mihir Bhatt

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 4, 2014

    Hi Mihir, from what I know, Becker has stopped providing CMA review courses since 2006. If you are talking about CMA review materials from Becker, it is at least 8 years old. I would definitely not use it.
    Here is a bit more info: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/becker-cma-review/

    Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
MIHIR BHATT says June 5, 2014

Ok.

Thanks.

Reply
ankit agarwal says June 5, 2014

Hi Stephanie,
Thanx for the great information you are providing to us.I am a ca final year student and done my B.com 3 years earlier from India .I want to join CMA US course but the fee for professional members is just double.Is i am eligible to get student discount?If i don’t, can you recommend me to join a master degree course to get the discount,or if you have any alternative way to get the discount please let me know.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 5, 2014

    Hi Ankit, thanks for your note. Unfortunately you can’t take the student discount if you graduated 3 years ago, it’s really for existing student. Taking on a master’s degree will get you qualified, but wouldn’t the cost of the master’s program a lot higher than the membership and exam fees?

    Also note that the membership fee is an ongoing payment. If it is too hard on your budget, you may want to consider whether to go ahead. For most accounting professionals, at least in the US, the intangible benefits of joining the IMA network exceed the costs. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
ankit agarwal says June 6, 2014

Thanx for yours valuable advice.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 6, 2014

    Most welcome!

    Reply
ankit agarwal says June 6, 2014

hi stephanie,
Plz let me know, if i want to self study the cma course which books i should refer?

Reply
ankit says June 6, 2014

Hi stephanie,
I have done my B.Com & currently pursuing MCA(Master of Computer Applications) from university which is in the list.Can i eligible for the student discount.If yes ,then ,Is there any problems in future in case i dont able to continue with my MCA course.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 8, 2014

    Hi Ankit, yes you should be able to qualify for student discount as long as you are taking at least 6 credit hours in each semester. You can use this discount for up to 6 years. Stephanie

    Reply
ankit says June 6, 2014

hi,
Is there any exemption in CMA or CPA exam papers for the India CA holding ACCA degree.

Reply
jinesh says June 9, 2014

ok,thanks for your valuable suggestions.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 10, 2014

    Sure you are welcome Jinesh. In fact I haven’t finished answering your questions (was about to take a plane):
    2. Well it is generally true that American companies look for the American version of CMA, but I probably won’t put it as strongly. It also depends on the type of company you are working in. For financial services for example, I don’t think they value CMA as much as, say, manufacturing companies like P&G and all that.

    3. No, there is no “certificate” or any proof after passing the CMA exam, because the CMA program is not completed. You will only get the certificate after fulfilling all the requirements including the experience. But it isn’t tough to get done.

    4. Yes either classroom training or online class is fine. More info here: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-cpe-requirements/

    Reply
jinesh says June 10, 2014

ohh,that is very great of you.actually what i thought is that only my first question is relevant or other questions can be get answered by myself(if i try) or something like that.in fact the first question was the one which i definitely needed a clear answer and i got it. whatever it is i admire your commitment

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 11, 2014

    Well, I am glad to be helpful. Let me know if you have further questions along the way 🙂 Stephanie

    Reply
jinesh says June 12, 2014

sure.

Reply
Manikanta R says June 17, 2014

I Have completed B.com Degree in Bangalore University with the aggregate of 60%, now i am planning to do CMA, just let me know the Eligibility criteria for applying CMA… and the fee structure also

Reply
Priyamvada Trivedi says June 19, 2014

Hi,

I have been all over the internet for help on the CMA course and finally got to this site. I am a Chartered Accountant from India with a BCom degree too. I have recently moved to Seattle and have planned to take the CMA exam. I am actually stuck on finding some good online classes (extensive training, not just revision classes) which are affordable too (since I couldn’t find any classroom classes in Seattle) as I don’t feel very confident going with self studies. It would be a great help if you could suggest some from your experience. Thanks in advance. 🙂

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 20, 2014

    Hi Priyamvada, I’ve got a post that’s perfect for you 🙂 https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/
    Sounds like Gleim is the one that works for you, better than Wiley and Hock in your case because the focus is on training/working on practice questions. Typically people get the CMA review system, but depending on how tight your budget is, you can consider only the test prep software.

    Hope it helps! Let me know if you have further questions. You are always welcome here. Stephanie

    Reply
      Priyamvada Trivedi says June 20, 2014

      Thanks Stephanie. I went through Gleim’s review course details and I am going for it. 🙂

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says June 21, 2014

        Great! Let me know if I can be helpful along the way! Stephanie

        Reply
safdar khan says June 21, 2014

hi,
I am a CA final student doing my articleship thinking to join this course but, will my articleship be considered as work experience.
please reply ASAP.

Regards,
Safdar Khan

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 24, 2014

    Hi safdar, typically internships and trainee programs don’t count, but not sure if this is the same as articleship. You can check directly with IMA to make sure. It would be great if you can let us know IMA’s views. Thanks, Stephanie

    Reply
Amit says June 22, 2014

Hi, I am a CMA India, how many papers do I supposed to give for CMA…. any exemption available or I need to give all the papers?????

Reply
Binoy Chacko says June 25, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I have an MBA in Finance and planning to do the CMA course and I heard that there is a little changes in the Syllabus going to effect from 1 Jan 2015.Is it advisable to get trained and take the two exam before the changes effect. Also heard that if we take exam in sep/oct window there is great chance of passing the exam ,I mean the passing percentage will be more.Can you reply your suggestion

Thanks

Binoy

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 26, 2014

    Hi Binoy,
    Yes there are some changes coming up, not minor though. I have a write up here:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/new-cma-exam-changes/

    There might be some seasonal fluctuation but I wouldn’t say a “great chance of passing” in a specific testing window. In any case IMA doesn’t publish pass rates for each window so it’s hard to verify the source. In short, I wouldn’t worry about timing the exam based on this information. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
kanchetianeel says June 28, 2014

HI Sir,

1.What is the age maximum limit.
2.Maximum how many attempts are there .
3.TOtal how many subjects are there.
4.I am pure IT(Software) employee,is this experince sufficient or do i need extra experince for econamics .
5.Total how much cost it will take.
6.To comlete entire CMA,how long does it take.
7.I am average at spoken english, that’s why i am asking.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 29, 2014

    Hi Kanchetianeel, here are the answers to your questions:
    1. There is no age limit.
    2. Unlimited attempts, but technically you need to complete the CMA program within 3 years or else you need to pay again (but once you pay you are allowed to do it again).
    3. It’s hard to say the number of “subjects” as each exam section covers a lot of subjects… there are two exam sections for the exam.
    4. No you need to get relevant experience to get the CMA certification, but you can do it after taking the exam. For details please take a look at this page: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-requirements/
    5. You can get an estimate here: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-fees/
    6. Typically people can complete within a year, but you can technically get it done within weeks if you can pass the two exams in one go.
    7. You won’t be tested in your communication skills in English, but there are two essays so good business writing in English is essential.

    Hope it helps! Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Dhakshay says June 29, 2014

Hii i am dhakshay

I am done with Indian CA inter !st group and i am pursuing my articleship under a chartered accountant in dubai. Am i eligible to join CMA? i dont have a degree.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says June 29, 2014

    Hi Dhakshay, generally you need a bachelor degree to get qualified. In your case, I encourage you email the IMA directly to see if there is any way around it. They can be reached at ima@imanet.org. Good luck!

    Alternatively, you can become a member of ICAI which has reciprocal agreement with the IMA.
    Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
tanya mishra says July 9, 2014

if i am from science side in class 12th as well as did my graduation from science field, then also i can attend this CMA exam ? reply soon…..!!

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 10, 2014

    Hi Tanya, yes you can, but you may need to do some extra studying in basic accounting, because candidates are assumed to have basic accounting knowledge. Also, you need to work in relevant field for two years before getting the certification. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Trevor says July 9, 2014

Once you pass all exams and meet all other requirements how long until you receive your certification number?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 10, 2014

    Hmm… I don’t think there is an official answer but it’s supposed to be quick… Stephanie

    Reply
Asha says July 10, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I have just passed my CMA Part 1 exam, I wanted to know, how much time do I have to prepare and give my Part 2 exam. Do the credits i received expire after a certain time ?

Thanks a lot,
Asha

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 12, 2014

    Hi Asha,
    Congratulations! It depends on your background and knowledge on financial management, but roughly speaking, the time required is similar to what it took you for Part 1. We need to complete the CMA program within 3 years. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
nayef says July 14, 2014

hi , how are you , i’m nayef from jordan , can you tell me what is the bset way to study cma and i’m using the hock material .and should i write notes or just reading, i want to aske you also if i studied gliem questions is this enough .

thanks

Reply
Koti Reddy Mukku says July 24, 2014

Hi
I am Bachelor of commerce graduate under distance education mode from Indira Gandhi National open university(IGNOU) which is a good accredited/ recognised university in India. I am having 3 years experience in Accounts and Finance related jobs. I want to do your CMA USA course. Am I eligible to appear for CMA exams and can get certified.
Gradate means any graduate whether regular full time or through correspondence/ under distance education mode from good recognised university in India. In other words Graduate under distance education stream from good recognised university is also eligible to appear for IMA’s CMA examination and can get CMA certificate upon successful pass of his exams conducted by IMA.

Please clarify my doubt at the earliest possible.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says July 24, 2014

    Hi Koti, please check whether your school is on this list:
    https://univ.cc/world.php

    If so, the IMA will most likely recognize your school.

    I am actually not the exam administrator, just someone who went through the CMA exam and want to share the experience. To get an official answer, please double check with the IMA at ima@imanet.org. They are friendly people with prompt replies. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
jialin says July 30, 2014

hi, I’m now in my last semester of master in management, and I registered 6 credit hours in this semester. will I qualify the student discount even if I will graduate and will not get 6 credit hours after this semester?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 2, 2014

    Hi Jialin, the criteria is that you need 6 credit hours in each semester, but I believe it is calculated based on last 12 months instead of calendar year, maybe you can still get student discounts for a year. It is best to check with IMA directly at ima@imanet.org. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
Pallavi Dalal says August 4, 2014

Hi Stephanie

I am thinking of pursuing CMA and want to start preparing for the exam. I intend to take the exam in Jan 2015 (part I) and May 2015 (part II). I have a Bachelors in Financial Accounting and Auditing and MBA from India. Currently I am a housewife and mother of 14 month old son in USA. I have also done CFE. I graduated around 12 years back and I am not in touch with books and studies since then. I have 9 years of work experience in capital market surveillance and compliance and I am looking for job in Columbus Indiana. I had certain doubts, which I wanted to get cleared.

1) I intend to buy the Gleim Study Material (both parts together) for preparation. Is this enough?
2) If I buy the Gleim material in this week, will the syllabus pertain to the year 2015? The gleim website doesn’t specify anything like that.
3) Can I start studying for the exam without registering with the IMA. I feel once I am comfortable with the material, I will register and pay the entrance fee in Nov 2014, and then schedule a exam date for Jan 2015.

Your help is appreciated.

Regards
Pallavi

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 5, 2014

    Hi Pallavi,
    Thank you for your note and I am glad that you are taking the initiative and take the CMA exam. On your first question, if you get the CMA Review System which is completely online, then you don’t need to worry about when you get it because it is regularly and automatically updated online. If you are getting anything that is text based, then it is worth noting that Part 1 will undergo some changes in Jan 2015 so in this you do want to postpone getting anything that is NOT online.

    On your second question, it is very smart for you to do that actually. I ran out of time to study myself before so I am suggesting to readers exactly what you have in mind.

    Your son must be so cute at 14 months old! It’s a great idea to take up some studies besides taking care of the little one. Please let me know if I can be helpful along the way. Cheers, Stephanie

    Reply
      Pallavi Dalal says August 5, 2014

      Thanks a lot Stephanie

      Regards
      Pallavi

      Reply
Malek says August 5, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I’m an industrial engineer and I work in a manufacturing firm, during my 2 years of experience I changed many positions, first i was a production engineer, where i created cost formulas for all products and prepared production budgets from sales forecasts, then i became the acting head for production where i was responsible for purchase orders for my department in addition to the production engineer’s tasks, now I’m the acting head of quality assurance, and I’m responsible for preparing the department’s budget as well as analyzing quality costs, and cost cutting projects.

I already passed part two and waiting for my part 1 result this week, so do you think this experience is OK with the IMA?

Thank you

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 7, 2014

    Hi Malek, thanks for your note. I think your experience later in your period, the part on budgeting and cost analysis, is useful. Depending on how you write the description, they may not count the full 2-year period as applicable. You might want to put more emphasis on the later part in the work verification form. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
      Malek says August 9, 2014

      Thanks very much Stephanie!, that should help i believe.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says August 10, 2014

        You are most welcome Malek! Stephanie

        Reply
Pallavi Dalal says August 5, 2014

Hi Stephanie

I have ordered for the Full Gleim Review course for 2015. I have the online access, however the text books are shipped and will take some time to reach me. Since I am away from studies for a long time, I wanted to know from you, what should be the first step to start studying.

1) I feel I should read from the text book and then visit the review course and answer the multiple choice questions.?? Whats your opinion??

2) Does the text book cover all the topics in detail?? Eg. Definitions, examples, accounting concepts etc.

3) I do not have the syllabus with me. Thus with no text book in hand, the Gleim review directly starts with multiple choice quiz in the study unit. With only the online review course, I feel lost.

Need your help.

Regards
Pallavi

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 7, 2014

    Hi Pallavi,
    That’s good progress! Assuming you get the CMA Review System, they actually have everything online including the text book (in electronic format, known as the Knowledge Transfer). They have a specially designed system for you to follow. I would just do that. I tried it before and it works great for me.

    2. The text book does cover things in a lot of detail, which is good and bad depending on your existing knowledge in the area. The system is supposed to help you filter some part of the book that you don’t need to study, so I encourage you to do that.

    3. Yes I know it’s odd to start with the multiple choice questions, but it is specifically designed for you to get to the studying mode, as well as to check how much you already know the material. For example, if you score 20% in the first MC, it is completely ok because it simply shows you need to study more thoroughly in the topic. If you score 90%, then you might want to skip the book and focus only on the practice questions.

    It’s totally fine if you feel uncomfortable with this new method. Just give it a try for a few days. If you still don’t like it, then email me/drop me a note here again. You can also contact your personal counselor at Gleim.

    Hope it helps? Stpehanie

    Reply
tom says August 11, 2014

Hi.
I passed the CPA exam 2 years ago. i work as a cost accountant currently for the past 10 years. I wanted to take a crack the CMA exam but i am concerned about the experience requirement. I know IMA website says 2 years of Management or Financial accounting experience. Does my cost accounting experience consider management experience? does it mean a controller/manager position experience? i dont have such experience. i report to the controller directly.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 13, 2014

    Hi Tom, it looks to me that your experience fits pretty well. The IMA has a rather broad definition of relevant experience. Here is a list that I extracted from their handbook:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-requirements/

    But I encourage you to email IMA and in most case they can be quite concise and helpful to tell you whether the experience can be counted. Email: ima@imanet.org. Please quote your ID number. Good luck!

    Reply
Shafeek says August 12, 2014

Hi Stpehanie,
I am B.com graduate from India, now i am working in Saudi Arabia the last 4 years as an Accountant. I am interested to get CMA.
1. Is Gleim Review course enough for self study.
2. Is it possible that to join IMA and attend exam after i self study Gleim Review course.

Regards,
Shafeek

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 13, 2014

    Hi Shafeek,
    Thanks for your note.
    1. Sure. Gleim is my #1 recommendation as you can see from this CMA review course comparison:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-review-course/
    2. Yes you can do that. The only draw back is that you need to schedule not too late in case the prometric center in your area is very popular. Good luck!

    Reply
sushant says August 20, 2014

i am currently 22 having no work experience giving ca finals . i m interested inthis course as its of short duration and globally recognised .. but i am confused about the work experience how can i get that … it would be hard to find one . can you guide more about the work exp requirement

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says August 21, 2014

    Hi Sushant,
    Getting the experience is the same way of finding a job. The experience can be done in your country or elsewhere. As long as it is relevant and is verified by your supervisor, it can be considered.

    For the list of relevant experience, please check out this page:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-requirements/

    Regards,
    Stephanie

    Reply
zee shaan says August 28, 2014

Hello sir

Is it necessary to have bachlor’s degree to complete cma

Reply
ronald davis says September 1, 2014

I PRACTICED ALL QUESTIONS OF WILEY, HOCK AND GLEIM,PROVIDERS WITH AN AIM OF PASS IN FIRST ATTEMPT OF CMA PART 2 , IS THAT ENOUGH TO PASS CMA EXAM? REPLY MUST………

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 2, 2014

    Hi Ronald, it also depends on how you score in each of these questions… Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Glenda says September 1, 2014

HI. I’m wondering about the experience requirement. (I have a BA from an accredited university, so no problem there). I have had my own consulting/bookkeeping business for 16 years, so the CMA is perfect for me. In this case, what would be appropriate verification of my experience?

Thanks.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 2, 2014

    Hi Glenda,
    This is a great question that I wanted to know the answer myself. Self-employment is not listed as it really depends on the nature of the job, but I would think it’s worth a try asking IMA about it, and on how exactly to verify it. You may want to send them an email on this before the application process: ima@imanet.org. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
      Glenda says September 2, 2014

      Thanks Stephanie. I’ll report back in case others have a similar query.

      Glenda

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says September 3, 2014

        Thank you!

        Reply
Glenda says September 8, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

I know I have some learning gaps. Should I do some background study before signing up with Gleim? Or, is there enough study materials to help me within the program? I see there is a suggested reading list. Should I do that first?

Thanks,
Glenda

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 9, 2014

    Hi Glenda, that would be great for your accounting knowledge. It’s not necessary though. If you run out of time, going through lots and lots of the practice questions work wonders. Good luck! Stephanie

    Reply
      Glenda says September 9, 2014

      Thanks Stephanie. By the way, I contacted IMA about the job experience requirements. I’ve had my own business for 16 years. They asked me to give them some details about the nature of what I do. Once I gave them the information, they told me I meet the requirements. Thought others who are self-employed might like to know this.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says September 9, 2014

        Oh that’s great to know! I suspect that is the case but now I can really tell readers that it can work. Thanks so much for sharing! Stephanie

        Reply
Harihar says September 27, 2014

Hi ,

Thanks for the informative article ship. I am a sales engineer with 5 years of work exp in manufacturing sector( 1.5 years in Engg maintenance and 3.5 years in sales). After consulting with many financial experts regarding my intention to stay in Engg sector itself but to learn abt finance so that in some years down the line, this knowledge would surely help me climb the ladder soon, they advised me to take up CMA. Now my doubt is since I require 6 months of article ship/training in finance field before taking final exam , how can I manage to accomplish this crieteria as I am a full time employee and working in non finance profile ?. Also can I use grad. Acma after completing final exam if I don’t complete 3 years training ?. Please guide. Thanks in advance for your time and response.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says September 28, 2014

    Hi Harihar, thank you for your note. I agree that you may need to take a closer look at how you can fulfill the experience requirements. First of all, articleship/training or what we call internships in the US is not counted as experience requirements. Also, you need to gain this experience for two consecutive years (not 6 months).

    In your case, you may need to convince your company for an internal transfer so you can accumulate the experience.

    On your last question, I am sorry but I don’t exactly know what you mean by “grad.Acma”. Could you spell this in full? Please note that the terms and education system varies in different countries.

    Reply
Ryan says October 14, 2014

I am curious if I would meet the requirements to become a CMA. I worked six years as a Staff Accountant, performing financial statement analysis, various balance sheet reconciliations, served as the equipment management support in relations to Financial activity to the operations area, LIFO restatements, and other month and year end activity. This was done at a equipment dealership, not a manufacturing company. Currently, I am a Financial Analyst, where i review budget to actual for various nonprofits, as well as provide other analytical support.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says October 14, 2014

    It sounds perfectly fine to get qualified, Ryan. But if you want to make sure (which I encourage you to do), please email IMA to confirm. You should be able to do this before registering for the CMA program. Stephanie

    Reply
Arun says October 28, 2014

Hi , Stephanie I am a bit confused between CMA or MBA . What do you think which should be done first?? and one more thing which is better CMA from India or from US? or do they have equal value??
Pls let me know ASAP..
Thanks!!

Reply
Ravi says October 30, 2014

Hi Stephanie

Would appreciate if you could answer the below queries.

1. Will i be eligible for US CMA membership if i successfully complete the CMA (ICWAI)
2. And currently i am working as an RM for Business loan group in a bank, where we scrutinize the B/S of small companies and then grant loan or reject the file.. so will this experience be counted if i am undertaking US CMA.

Reply
gaurav kawa says October 30, 2014

hi
i have done my graduation …now looking for cma..
can u plzz tell me about how much experience i need n in which field….

Reply
Muhammad Jassim says October 30, 2014

Hello Stephanie,

I wanted to know..

1) What are the possible ways for an Indian to be eligible for both the CMA and ICAI qualifications?

2) On passing the CMA exam do we get any proof that we have passed it???

3) Does just passing the examination ( without the experience criterion) help fetch a job? Do firms employ people just on the basis of their passing the exam?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says November 1, 2014

    Hi Muhammad, if you are an Indian national living outside of India while you go through the CMA program, then you should be able to make use of the MRA.

    No really on the exam itself, but once you fulfill the experience requirements, you get the certificate.

    Well you can tell the employers that you pass the exam and all you need is the experience (which hopefully can be provided by the company you are interviewing for). if the company values the CMA certification, it should be helpful. But it is of course better to have the full certification when applying for the job. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Ashily says November 11, 2014

I am in the last semester of B.com (Hons.) specializing in Finance and Investment. I want to take up a Post Graduate Course before CMA. Which one gives more exemptions for the CMA exams – MBA or M.Com?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says November 13, 2014

    Hi Ashily,
    Your BCOM is perfect for qualifying for the CMA exam. Given there are only two parts in the exam, there won’t be any exemption thereafter. Stephanie

    Reply
Jawdat says November 12, 2014

I believe i have the right experience qualifications, how can i prove it to CMA?

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says November 13, 2014

    Hi Jawdat, you can email IMA with a job description and see if they give you a favorable reply. You can do that before joining the CMA program so to make sure everything works towards your certification. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
      Jawdat says November 15, 2014

      Many thanks for your reply. I emailed them with the job description and they mentioned that my experience is qualified. In case i was chosen for further documentation. What their requirements for proof will be? I may leave my current job and i would like to request any documentation that might be needed before that.

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says November 17, 2014

        Hi Jawdat, I believe that as long as your supervisor (or ex-supervisor after leaving your company) is willing to verify your experience, it’s fine.

        Reply
Bhuvana says November 14, 2014

Hello Stephanie,

I find ICFAI university in the link you have provided, but the same is not found it in the IMA site drop down.

regards,
Bhuvana

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says November 17, 2014

    Oh really? It is supposed to be the same link. Let me double check. If unsure, please email IMA at ima@imanet.org

    Reply
Bhargava says November 23, 2014

Hi Stephine,

I am done with my Bachelor’s in commerce in 2009 and started working in payroll domain for US firms from June 2010 till present in India, I am interested to study CMA can you guide me will this help to shape my carrier well if I go abroad or with in India and wanted to know, whether my prior experience falls under relevant experience or not.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says November 25, 2014

    Hi Bhargava,
    Thanks for your note. Whether the CMA is going to help you in your job depends on your career aspiration. CMA certification is most useful in big, multi-national (and preferably US based) companies with manufacturing arm, because there are lots of costing and management accounting involved in these companies. As you move up and get involved in strategic planning and the role of COO/CFO, the CMA certification is very relevant as well. No certification can guarantee of job or a path of success, but if the above job nature interests you, then the CMA certification is a good choice. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
      Bhargava says November 26, 2014

      Thank you Stephanie,

      I am interested in cost and management accounting and I wanted to get involved on the same you mentioned.

      But will payroll experience come under relevant experience for certification?

      Reply
        Stephanie Ng says November 27, 2014

        Hi Bhargava,
        It depends on whether your role in payroll is a routine work or with some analysis involved. The latter is better. To make sure you can check with IMA in advance at ima@imanet.org.

        Regards
        Stephanie

        Reply
adeela iftikhar says December 1, 2014

if someone’s doing cma in pakistan is that person continue it in canda or attempt any remainig paper and will u plz provide any number to contact you

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 1, 2014

    Hi Adeela,
    You can prepare and take the exam anywhere. I think there is a testing center in Pakistan, but please double check: https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-location/

    Reply
    Sajid Ali says December 15, 2014

    Hi Adeela,

    CMA exams are available worldwide. You can attempt it in Canada. Good luck, I just passed both the parts.

    Reply
      Stephanie Ng says December 15, 2014

      Thanks Sajid,and congrats again! 🙂 Stephanie

      Reply
Him says December 3, 2014

Hi,

I need to join CMA on urgent basis to move ahead in life, I am aged 35 wkg in US MNC at execution level only on education side I am BCom grad, with MBA (Part Time) and CA inter, hope u help and guide me where to enroll and all, expecting a revert asap

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 4, 2014

    Hi Him,
    The process is basically listed out in the above — so what you can do is to go to ima’s website and join the membership. If you are in a rush to get the certification, then you can join the CMA program and register for the exam immediately, mail in your transcript from school, and start studying for the exam. The registration process is straightforward and can be done within half an hour. Please let me know if you have other questions. Regards, Stephanie

    Reply
Vikas Kumar says December 8, 2014

Hi Stephanie,

First of all, let me tank you for all those posts and helping out people with their questions related to CMA professional designation.

I am into Management Consulting with one of the Big 4s in India and my work includes working with Banking clients in USA to analyse their compliance needs. We help solve their complex compliance and legal matters in the sense that they approach us to manage their compliance with various US Financial enactments. Would this sort of experience be counted towards the work-experience requirements towards CMA professional designation.

Your reply post is awaited.

Many thanks again, Stephanie !

Vikas K.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 10, 2014

    Hi Vikas, thanks for your kind words! I believe your work is considered relevant because it involves financial analysis. But it is always best to check with the source — you can actually email IMA with a job description and they can confirm it for you. They can be reached at ima@imanet.org. Good luck in getting a favorable reply!

    Reply
Pankaj Kharakwal says December 11, 2014

Hi,

Can you tell whether the articleship/training for Chartered accountancy counts for the experience requirements of CMA??

Thanks.

Reply
sam says December 14, 2014

Hi! I hav just completed my b.com in India and I wanna be a CMA can u plzz tell the steps to persue my goal and is ter any difference between CWA and CMA if yes wats it…and plzz tell the steps and requirements to be a CMA, thanks

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 15, 2014

    Hi Sam, this article may help you compare the two qualifications:
    https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-ima-vs-icwai/

    As for the steps, the above highlights what you need to do. You can start by going to the IMA website (www.imanet.org) and join the membership, pay the program fee, and when you are ready, the exam fee.

    Reply
Sajid Ali says December 14, 2014

Dear Stephanie Ng,

Thank you very much for your kind help. I just passed both the parts of CMA. I am sending my experience to IMA. I have the following responsibilities as Commercial Project Controller.
Can you please confirm, is it relevant to IMA requirements?

• Cost Controlling & Allocation: Continuously record and monitor planned, committed and incurred cost and highlight budget constrains timely to ensure project cost to stay within budget.
• Analyzed variances, cash flow, costs and expenses
• Established appropriate control and feedback mechanisms on income; cost and performance versus budget and last year to influence the department to take corrective action
• Reviewed the business related provisions and accruals raised by the projects and ensure these comply with Siemens and IFRS guidelines
• Responsible for reporting and accounting as per regulatory and legal requirements including annual closing and accounts.
• Monitoring, controlling and reporting of key figures of the projects e.g. Sales, Cost of Sales, Gross Profit, Net Profit (at OIC/actual/EAC) and PoC.
• Planning & Forecasting: Prepare accurately cost, sales and cash flow plan according the underlying project plans (e.g. procurement, program of works, manpower).
• Reporting & Closing: Prepare all internal reports towards the Project Management, internal and external auditors, correct and accurate for the projects.
• Customer: Prepare payment application to the customer by maximizing billing value and ensure timely submission.
• Subcontractor: Evaluate, prepare and issue payment certificate as per works executed considering all contractual rights and obligations.

Best Regards,

Sajid Ali
Dubai, UAE.

Reply
    Stephanie Ng says December 15, 2014

    Hi Sajid,
    I am so glad you passed both exams! I can’t really confirm the experience on behalf of IMA, but it looks good to me, because it involves analysis, planning, and some financial management (vs routine work). Good luck and let us know how it goes! Stephanie

    If you have a chance, it would be nice to drop a note on this page and tell everyone you passed the exam 🙂 https://ipassthecmaexam.com/cma-exam-success-stories/

    Reply