CMA Certification Explained: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Official CMA Material Partner of UWorld.
Official CMA Material Partner of UWorld International.
Why Become a US CMA?
The US Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification is one of the most prestigious qualifications in finance and accounting.
Get hired in Big 4s, MNCs, F&A Consulting Firms, worldwide
Globally recognised, across 150+ Countries and especially valued by MNCs
Increase your earning potential by 47% or more
The US CMA syllabus & exam can be finished in just 6 - 9 months; only 2 exam parts
It’s not just a certification, it’s your ticket to study here & work abroad.
How Is CMA US Different From CMA India?
Criteria |
Indian CMA (ICMAI) |
US CMA (IMA) |
|---|---|---|
Full Form
|
Cost and Management Accountant (ICMAI). |
Certified Management Accountant (CMA - IMA). |
Governing Body
|
Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI). |
Institute of Management Accountants (IMA, USA). |
Applicability
|
Only in India.
|
Globally, across 150+ Countries and especially valued by MNCs. |
Exams
|
20 Exams (in total). 3 Levels. Foundation Level (4 Exams); Intermediate Level (8 Exams); Final Level (8 Exams) |
Only 2 Exams. 1 Level. US CMA Part-1 Exam US CMA Part-2 Exam |
Duration
|
3 - 4 years
|
6 - 9 months
|
Exam Structure
|
20 Exams x 3 Hrs/Exam Major weightage to subjective questions (with few objective-type questions as well) |
2 Exams x 4 Hrs/Exam 75% Objective Questions (100xMCQs) + 25% Subjective (2xEssay Type Qs) |
Job Opportunities
|
PSUs, Government, Private firms, Banks, in India Only. |
Big 4s, MNCs, F&A Consulting Firms, worldwide. |
Salary
|
₹6-12 LPA (based on experience)
|
₹10-25 LPA (in India, depending on MNCs)
|
Recognition
|
Recognised majorly in India only. (Very limited recognition & opportunities abroad). |
Recognised in India & across 150+ countries, providing you with global mobility options. |
What Problems Do Students Face During US CMA Preparation?
Too much information, zero clarity
EduMont gives you a focused 5-step roadmap video to guide your preparation
Outdated or non-approved materials
Generic notes = generic results. We provide IMA-approved UWorld study material with access till you pass.
No expert guidance, no hand-holding
Our mentors, who are industry experts, support you every step of the way to help you pass in just one attempt.
Â
Fear of failing & wasting money
That ends here. At EduMont we guarantee pass in 1 attempt. No retakes, just results.
How We Teach ?
US CMA Classes at EduMont
What are EduMont’s US CMA Course Features ?
 Pass in 1 attempt guarantee.
We provide IMA approved UWorld CMA study material with access till you pass
EduMont exclusive study material (Ebook + Printed), which are pre-annotated and pre-highlighted with Access till you pass.
Access to EduMont’s Comprehensive LMS(Learning Management System)
Online instructor-led live training given by experienced and seasoned faculty like Mr Rohan Chopra, CPA, CMA & TEDx speaker.
We provide complete guidance & hand-holding through the US CMAÂ Exam process with our dedicated Operations Team
What are EduMont’s US CMA Course Features ?
 Pass in 1 attempt guarantee.
We provide IMA approved CMA study material with access till you pass
EduMont exclusive study material (Ebook + Printed), which are pre-annotated and pre-highlighted with Access till you pass.
Access to EduMont’s Comprehensive LMS(Learning Management System)
Online instructor-led live training given by experienced and seasoned faculty like Mr Rohan Chopra, CPA, CMA & TEDx speaker.
We provide complete guidance & hand-holding through the US CMAÂ Exam process with our dedicated Operations Team
Why is EduMont Better?
Compare EduMont Vs. M***s Vs. S**d**r Vs. Others
Zero Cost EMI @ EduMont Starts at ₹ 6,250 / Month
Enquire Now About the CMA Exam Fee Today!
Enquire Now About the CMA Exam Fee Today!
Also Seen On
Frequently Asked Questions ?
What are the steps to become a US CMA from India?
- Join IMA-Become a member of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) as a student or professional.
- Enrol in the CMA program-Pay the one-time entrance fee to register for the certification.
- Register and pay for exams-Pay exam fees separately for Part 1 and Part 2.
- Clear both exam parts-Pass Part 1 and Part 2 within a 3-year window.
- Complete work experience-Fulfil 2 years of relevant experience in management accounting or financial management. Which can be done before or after the exams.
Can I become a US CMA while working full-time in India?
Yes, any working professional in India can become a US CMA. Unlike CA, the US CMA has no mandatory articleship or study leave requirements.Â
Exams are held thrice a year (January-February, May-June, September-October), so you choose windows that fit your schedule. By studying around 10 to 15 hours a week, working professionals usually clear both parts within 9 to 12 months without taking any breaks.
Is work experience mandatory to become a US CMA, and does my current job count?
Do I need to visit the US at any point to become a US CMA?
How is US CMA different from CMA India (ICMAI)?
They are completely different certifications issued by different bodies. US CMA is awarded by IMA (USA), is globally recognised in 170+ countries, takes 6–12 months, and focuses on management accounting and strategic finance.Â
The Indian CMA is awarded by ICMAI, is primarily recognised in India, takes 4–5 years, and focuses on cost accounting. The two serve different career goals. However, Indian CMA holders can directly apply for US CMA membership under a mutual recognition agreement between ICMAI and IMA, without reappearing for exams.
Should I do US CMA or US CPA - which is better for me?
- US CMA - Best for management accounting, FP&A, budgeting, business finance, and internal strategy roles. Only 2 exams. Faster and cheaper.
- US CPA - Best for public accounting, US GAAP audit, taxation, advisory and compliance roles. Stronger global recognition at Big 4s & MNCs.
If your goal is to move into finance leadership, controllership, or FP&A inside a company, CMA is the sharper fit. Many professionals do both: CMA first for the speed and affordability, CPA later for a broader scope.
What jobs can I get after becoming a US CMA in India?
- Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Analyst / Manager
- Management Accountant
- Cost Controller
- Finance Manager / Business Finance Partner
- Internal Auditor / Controls Analyst
- Budgeting & Forecasting Analyst/Manager
- Controller / CFO track roles at MNCs and GCCs
These roles are in high demand at Big 4 firms, Fortune 500 companies, and global capability centres operating in India.