1. Overview of the US CMA Certification

• Purpose: Validates expertise in financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics.
• Global Recognition: Recognized in over 100 countries, valuable for international career opportunities.
• Focus Areas: Strategic management, financial reporting, budgeting, and decision-making.

2. Eligibility Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
• Experience: Two continuous years in management accounting or financial management.
• Membership: Join the IMA to register for the CMA program.

3. Exam Structure

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

• Topics: Financial reporting, planning, budgeting, performance management, cost management, internal controls, and technology.
• Format: 100 multiple-choice questions, 2 essay questions.
• Duration: 4 hours.

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

• Topics: Financial statement analysis, corporate finance, decision analysis, risk management, investment decisions, and ethics.
• Format: 100 multiple-choice questions, 2 essay questions.
• Duration: 4 hours.

4. Exam Fees

• IMA Membership Fee: Professional: $295/year | Student/Academic: $49/year.
• CMA Entrance Fee: $300 (one-time fee).
• Exam Fee (per part): Professional: $495 | Student/Academic: $370.

5. Exam Scheduling

The CMA exam is offered in three testing windows annually:

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

Exams are administered at Prometric testing centers worldwide.

6. Passing Score

The CMA exam is scored on a scale of 0-500, with a passing score of 360.

7. Continuing Education (CPE) Requirements

CMAs must complete 30 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) annually, including 2 hours in ethics.

8. Benefits of the CMA Certification

• Career Advancement: Opens doors to roles like Financial Analyst, Controller, CFO, and Management Accountant.
• Higher Earning Potential: CMAs earn higher salaries than non-certified professionals.
• Global Opportunities: Highly valued in multinational corporations and global markets.

9. Study Resources

The IMA provides study materials, including textbooks, practice questions, and online courses. Third-party providers like Gleim, Wiley, and Becker also offer preparation resources.

10. Key Differences Between CMA and CPA

• CMA: Focuses on management accounting, financial strategy, and decision-making.
• CPA: Focuses on auditing, tax, and regulatory compliance.

11. How to Get Started

1. Join the IMA.
2. Register for the CMA program.
3. Prepare for the exam using study materials.
4. Schedule and pass both parts of the exam.
5. Gain the required work experience.
6. Maintain the certification through CPE.