WHAT IS
CMA?

Certified Management Accountant is a certification
for professionals in management accounting. It
shows that you have expertise in areas like
financial planning, analysis, and strategy.

WHO WILL IT HELP?


1) Starting with an entry-level position or internship is a smart move to gain the experience needed for CMA eligibility. For recent graduates, this pathway can accelerate your certification journey.

2) Possessing the CMA certification demonstrates to employers your readiness for the job. Sometimes, it even positions you ahead of other applicants in the competition for a job.

The CMA certification serves as a catalyst for professionals aspiring to advance their careers into roles of business management and strategic leadership.

CMAs are highly sought-after for their adeptness in business operations, which opens up new avenues for those interested in finance or accounting. Consequently, individuals holding the CMA certification are more likely to be offered managerial or executive positions, ranging from financial advisor to CFO.

EXAM PATTERN

HOW TO BECOME A CMA: REQUIREMENTS

STEP 1

First join IMA as a member and then enroll in the CMA program.

STEP 2

Register for the CMA exams (Part 1 and Part 2) in any order.

STEP 3

Verify you meet the education and work experience requirements to earn your certification.

THE CMA: TWO EXAM PARTS COVERING 12 COMPETENCIES

  • 15% External Financial Reporting Decisions.
  • 20% Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting
  • 20% Performance Management
  • 15% Cost Management
  • 15% Internal Controls
  • 15% Technology and Analytics
  • 20% Financial Statement Analysis
  • 20% Corporate Finance
  • 25% Decision Analysis
  • 10% Risk Management
  • 10% Investment Decisions
  • 15% Professional Ethics

CMA Examination

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics (4 hours - 100 multiple-choice questions and two 30-minute essays)

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management (4 hours - 100 multiple-choice questions and two 30-minute essays)

Each exam part will consist of 100 multiple-choice questions and two 30-minute essay questions. You will have three hours to complete the multiple-choice section and one hour to complete the essays. The essays will be presented after you have completed the multiple-choice section of the exam or after three hours, whichever comes first. Once you complete and exit the multiple-choice section of the exam, you cannot go back. You must remain in the essay section to complete the exam. The essay section consists of approximately 10-12 written response or calculation questions based on two scenarios, describing a typical business situation.

Note: You must answer at least 50% of the multiple-choice questions correctly to be eligible to take the essay section.

CMA PROGRAM FEES

CMA Entrance Fee: $300

Exam Fee: $495 per part

IMA Membership Fee: $295*

CMA Entrance Fee: $225

Exam Fee: $370 per part

IMA Membership Fee: $49/$160*

FAQ

Find answers to common questions about the CMA program.