How Hard Is the CMA USA Exam Compared to ACCA?
CMA USA (Certified Management Accountant USA) is one of the most prestigious global accounting certifications, highly valued by employers worldwide. For Indian students, pursuing the CMA USA course abroad in 2025 offers exceptional career mobility, international work options, and access to high-paying roles in finance and management. With increasing demand for globally certified accounting professionals, the US CMA credential opens doors across industries and countries.
CMA USA Course 2025: Key Details for Indian Students
The CMA USA course is administered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA. The exam focuses on management accounting, financial analysis, and strategic decision-making. This certification is recognized across the USA, Middle East, Europe, and APAC as a mark of professional expertise in management accounting.
CMA USA 2025 – Exam Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Certified Management Accountant (USA) |
| Conducting Body | Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA |
| Exam Parts | Part 1 & Part 2 |
| Testing Windows (2025) | Jan/Feb, May/Jun, Sep/Oct |
| Eligibility | Bachelor's Degree & IMA Membership |
| Duration | 2 years (Flexible, self-paced) |
| Exam Mode | Computer-based, global test centers (including India) |
| Certification Validity | Worldwide |
Top International CMA USA Course Providers (2025)
Leading universities and providers abroad are affiliated with IMA and offer coaching, resources, or integrated degree+CMA pathways for Indian students aiming to move overseas. Here are some noteworthy institutions linked to US CMA success:
| University/Provider | Country | Program Type |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University (WP Carey) | USA | B.Com/MBA + CMA Pathways |
| Rutgers University | USA | CMA Test Prep Programs |
| Jain University (Integrated CMA) | India (International Pathway) | B.Com + US CMA |
| Becker, Wiley, Gleim, Miles, EduPristine | Global/Online | CMA USA Prep Courses (Worldwide) |
Many students also opt for IMA-approved coaching centers in India before pursuing further studies or jobs abroad. Explore more on global standardized exams and their role in international education.
CMA USA 2025 Eligibility Criteria
To register for the CMA USA exam, Indian and international students must fulfill the following requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree (from an accredited university/college; all disciplines accepted)
- IMA membership is mandatory before registering for exams
- English proficiency: While IELTS/TOEFL is not required for the CMA exam, it is required for those planning overseas study (see IELTS exam)
- Work experience: 2 continuous years of management accounting/financial management (can be completed before or within 7 years of passing both CMA exam parts)
Applicants often combine their CMA qualification with a relevant master’s (like an MBA abroad) for maximum international career benefit.
CMA USA Course Fees and Scholarships 2025
The total cost of the CMA USA certification includes IMA membership, entrance, and exam fees. Rates differ for students and professionals. Scholarships are available via IMA and select US universities for Indian students.
CMA USA Course Fees for Indian Students in 2025
| Fee Component | Professionals (USD/INR) | Students/Academics (USD/INR) |
|---|---|---|
| IMA Membership (annual) | $260 / ~₹21,000 | $45 / ~₹3,700 |
| CMA Entrance Fee | $300 / ~₹24,000 | $225 / ~₹18,000 |
| Exam Fee (per part) | $495 / ~₹40,000 | $370 / ~₹30,000 |
| Total (Minimum) | $1,550 / ~₹125,000 | $1,010 / ~₹80,000 |
*Values are approximate (as of May 2024). Excludes coaching/study materials and living costs abroad.
IMA scholarships annually support 10,000+ high achieving students worldwide. Indian students nominated by college professors may receive free exam fees and IMA membership support. Some US, UK, and UAE universities offer additional financial aid for international students combining coursework with CMA prep. For more global scholarship info, see scholarships to study abroad.
CMA USA Syllabus & Exam Structure (2025)
The CMA USA exam is split into two parts, each covering six core competency areas in management accounting. Exams are computer-based, offered thrice a year, and comprise multiple-choice and essay questions.
| Part | Major Topics |
|---|---|
| Part 1 | Financial Planning, Performance, & Analytics (e.g., financial reporting, budgeting, cost management, technology & analytics, internal controls) |
| Part 2 | Strategic Financial Management (e.g., financial statement analysis, corporate finance, decision analysis, risk management, investment decisions, professional ethics) |
A passing scaled score is 360/500 per section, with global average pass rates around 45-50%. Exams can be scheduled at any Prometric center in India or worldwide. For recent trends in international exam toughness, read hardest degrees in the world.
Study Visa & Post-Study Work Options after CMA USA
Indian students who complete CMA USA abroad (especially from the USA, UK, UAE, or Canada) may be eligible for post-study work visas and professional roles. Common steps include:
- Secure I-20 for F-1 US student visa (if pursuing integrated degree+certification)
- Prepare supporting documents: offer letter, proof of funds, exam registration
- After graduation: Apply for OPT/CPT/other post-study work streams (up to 3 years STEM OPT extension in the USA)
CMA USA holders are often favored for H-1B sponsorship in US financial, consulting, and tech firms, expanding professional scope. Countries like UK, Canada, UAE also provide work routes for international qualified accountants.
Career Opportunities and Salary after CMA USA
CMA USA certified professionals find roles in global accounting, corporate finance, audit, and analytics fields. Top recruiters include Big Four consultancy firms (EY, Deloitte, KPMG, PwC), Fortune 500 companies, tech giants, and leading multinational banks.
| Region | Average Fresher Salary | Top Employers |
|---|---|---|
| India | ₹6 – ₹10 LPA | EY, Deloitte, Amazon, Accenture, HSBC |
| USA | $60,000 – $95,000/year | Google, BNY Mellon, KPMG, Johnson & Johnson |
| UAE / Middle East | AED 120,000 – 220,000/year | PwC, Emirates, Al-Futtaim, Unilever |
Mid-career and senior professionals with CMA USA and an international degree can earn higher salaries and gain fast-track promotions. The certification adds significant ROI to your professional journey.
Updated May 2024 for 2025 admissions. For more study abroad degree pathways, see professional courses after graduation and detailed scholarship opportunities for Indian students.
Pursuing the CMA USA course abroad in 2025 can be a transformative step in building an international finance career. The globally relevant syllabus, flexible exam structure, and strong employer demand make CMA USA a top choice for driven Indian students aiming to work or settle overseas.
FAQs on CMA USA Fees, Salary & Exam Guide for 2025-26 Students
1. What is the CMA USA course fee in the USA?
The CMA USA course fee typically includes IMA membership fees, the CMA entrance fee, and exam fees for both parts. In total, the cost generally ranges from USD 1,000 to USD 2,500. Additional costs may apply for study materials or coaching classes.
2. What is the CMA USA course fee in Indian Rupees?
The total CMA USA course fees in Indian Rupees can range between ₹90,000 to ₹2,00,000 depending on exchange rates and chosen coaching providers. Extra charges for books and training may apply.
3. Who is eligible for the CMA USA course?
To pursue the CMA USA course, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and at least two years of relevant work experience in management accounting or financial management. Students can appear for exams before meeting the work experience requirement but must fulfill it within seven years of passing both exam parts.
4. What is the syllabus of the CMA USA course?
The CMA USA syllabus is divided into two parts:
- Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
- Part 2: Strategic Financial Management
Both parts cover topics like external financial reporting, planning, budgeting, cost management, decision analysis, corporate finance, risk management, and professional ethics.
5. Is the US CMA exam difficult to pass?
The US CMA exam is considered moderately challenging due to its focus on analytical and practical skills. The global pass rate averages about 45-50%. Diligent preparation using certified study materials and practice exams can significantly improve your chances of success.
6. What is the salary after completing CMA USA?
A professional with CMA USA certification can expect an average salary of USD 80,000–120,000 per annum in the United States. In India, salaries for freshers typically range from ₹6 to ₹10 lakhs per annum, with higher earnings for experienced professionals or those in managerial positions.
7. Is CMA USA easier than ACCA?
Compared to ACCA, CMA USA is considered less time-consuming as it has only two exam parts as opposed to ACCA’s thirteen exams. However, both exams require a strong understanding of accounting concepts. The difficulty depends on your academic background and career goals.
8. What is the full form of CMA USA?
The full form of CMA USA is Certified Management Accountant (USA). It is a global certification awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA.
9. Which subjects are included in the CMA USA course?
The CMA USA course subjects include financial planning, performance management, cost management, internal controls, corporate finance, decision analysis, risk management, and professional ethics. These subjects are covered over two parts of the exam.
10. Who are the top CMA USA course providers in India?
Some of the leading CMA USA course providers in India include Vedantu, Miles Education, EduPristine, Wiley, and Zell Education. These institutes offer live classes, recorded lectures, mock tests, and study materials.
11. Can I study the CMA USA course online?
Yes, the CMA USA course is available online from many reputable institutes. You can access live interactive classes, video lessons, and practice tests through official providers and authorized learning partners.
12. What is the CMA vs CPA difference?
The CMA USA focuses on management accounting and financial strategy, while the CPA emphasizes auditing, taxation, and public accounting. The CMA is ideal for careers in corporate finance and management, whereas CPA is better suited for public accounting, audit, and advisory roles.
