The Certified Management Accountant (CMA US) is a professional certification in financial management and management accounting. The CMA US credential is offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) in the United States. To become a CMA US, candidates must pass a rigorous two-part exam and meet certain eligibility criteria. Here is what you need to know about navigating the eligibility criteria for the CMA US exam:
Educational Requirements:
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. However, the degree can be in any field, not necessarily accounting or finance.
Alternatively, candidates can also pursue the CMA US program without a bachelor’s degree, but they must have completed a certain level of education and work experience. This typically includes a combination of a high school diploma or equivalent and two years of relevant work experience.
Work Experience:
Candidates with a bachelor’s degree must have at least two years of continuous professional experience in management accounting or financial management. This experience can be gained before or after passing the CMA US exam.
Membership in the IMA:
Candidates must become members of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) before they can register for the CMA US exam. Membership provides access to study resources, networking opportunities, and other benefits.
Exam Registration:
Once candidates meet the eligibility requirements, they can register for the CMA US exam through the IMA website or by contacting the IMA directly.
The CMA US exam consists of two parts: Part 1 – Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics, and Part 2 – Strategic Financial Management. Candidates can choose the order in which they take the exam parts.
Each exam part consists of multiple-choice questions and essays that assess candidates’ knowledge and skills in various areas of management accounting and financial management.
Exam Preparation:
Candidates should prepare thoroughly for the exam by studying the exam content outline provided by the IMA.
There are various study materials available, including textbooks, online courses, practice exams, and review courses offered by third-party providers. It is also advisable to enrol with a CMA US coaching Institute like Uplift Professionals Academy to pass the CMA US exam at first attempt.
Exam Administration:
The CMA US exam is administered at Prometric test centres worldwide. Candidates can schedule their exam appointments through the Prometric website.
The exam is offered during three testing windows each year: January-February, May-June, and September-October. Candidates can choose the testing window that best fits their schedule.
Summary:
Overall, navigating the eligibility criteria for the CMA US exam involves ensuring that candidates meet the educational and work experience requirements, becoming members of the IMA, registering for the exam, preparing thoroughly, and scheduling their exam appointments. By fulfilling these requirements and adequately preparing for the exam, candidates can increase their chances of success in earning the CMA US credential.
CMA US is a top-notch professional credential in management accounting across the globe. CMA US aspirants often face dilemmas regarding the registration and administrative processes in relation to the CMA US exam. To help them out, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the CMA US registration process:
Step 1: Understand the CMA US Certification
Familiarise yourself with the CMA certification requirements, exam structure, and benefits. Check if you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA).
Step 2: Meet Eligibility Requirements
You typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. You may also need two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.
Step 3: Register for the CMA Program
Create an account on the IMA website. Complete the online registration form. Verify your education and experience eligibility.
Step 4: Find the right study partner to prepare for the Exam
Find a IMA learning partner like Uplift Professionals Academy to prepare for the CMA US exam and be a IMA member with partner discounts. Use authentic study materials provided your learning partner or other reputable sources. Develop a study plan and stick to it. Take practice exams to assess your readiness.
Step 5: Schedule Your Exam
Select a testing location and date that works for you. Pay the exam fees. Receive confirmation of your exam appointment.
Step 6: Take the Exam
Arrive at the testing center on time.
Bring required identification and materials. Follow the exam instructions carefully. Manage your time effectively during the exam.
Step 7: Await Your Results
Your exam results will be available within a few weeks after your exam date. You will receive an email notification when your results are ready. If you pass, you can proceed to the next steps. If not, you can retake the exam.
Step 8: Fulfil the Experience Requirement
Complete the required two years of professional experience if you haven’t already. Submit verification of your work experience to IMA.
Step 9: Maintain Your Certification
Once you become a CMA, you’ll need to fulfil continuing education requirements to maintain your certification. Participate in professional development activities and report your CPE credits to IMA annually.
Tips for Success:
Start preparing early to give yourself enough time to study thoroughly. Enrol with a good training institute like Uplift Professionals Academy. Utilise a variety of study resources to reinforce your understanding of the material. Practice time management during the exam to ensure you complete all sections. Stay focused and motivated throughout the preparation process. Reach out to fellow CMAs or study groups for support and guidance. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Certified Management Accountant (CMA US) at first attempt!
In the era of fast-track metamorphosis of the business landscape, the role of management accountants appears to be more crucial in handling more information to come out with a meaningful strategic decision-making approach. From the cocoon of cost accounting and bookkeeping, management accounting is evolving towards the wider spectrum of decision-making ability for the profit-making of a company. With the advancement of technology, management accounting is embracing the related technologies for greater value addition to the organization. Thus, the future of management accounting is more dynamic and attractive than idealized in the past.
Being a credible globally accepted professional accounting qualification, US CMA is also evolving at a greater pace with integrated comprehensive skill sets, strategic decision making, effective networking as well as providing competitive salary and the scope of career advancements.
Listed below are some of the salient inputs transforming the management accounting and US CMA credential to evolve in an innovative manner:
Technology Integration:
Management accounting, like many other fields, is likely to see increased integration of technology. This could include the use of advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, and automation tools to enhance decision-making processes and improve efficiency included in the US CMA credential curriculum.
Data Analytics and Big Data:
The growing importance of data analytics and big data in business decision-making is expected to influence the role of management accountants. Professionals like US CMA credential holders with the ability to analyze and interpret large sets of data will likely be in high demand.
Globalization:
With businesses becoming more global, management accountants may need to adapt to the challenges and opportunities posed by international markets. This may include considerations of diverse regulatory environments, currency fluctuations, and varying business practices under the skill set of US CMA credential.
Focus on Strategic Decision-Making:
Management accountants are increasingly seen as strategic partners in the decision-making process. The US CMA credential may evolve to place more emphasis on strategic management skills, including risk management, performance measurement, and strategic planning.
Sustainability Reporting:
There is a growing trend towards sustainability reporting and corporate social responsibility. Management accountants having US CMA credential, may find themselves involved in tracking and reporting on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics.
Continuous Professional Development:
The nature of the US CMA credential might evolve to include more emphasis on continuous learning and professional development. This is essential in a rapidly changing business environment where staying current with industry trends and new technologies is crucial.
Summary:
Considering the dynamicity of industrial demand in the accounting and finance sector with the advent of invasive technological developments, the future of management accounting is evolving to cope with the increasing demand. As the repetitive accounting jobs are going to be at stake due to automation, US CMA credential is also evolving with competitive adaptations to make a future-proof management accountant who can amalgamate the accounting skill and related technologies to make strategic financial decisions.
Balancing work, life, and preparing for the US CMA (Certified Management Accountant) exam can be challenging, but with effective planning and time management, you can achieve success.
Here are some practical tips to help you in US CMA exam preparation balancing the other aspects of your life:
Create a Study Schedule:
Develop a realistic study schedule that considers your work hours, daily responsibilities, and personal commitments. Allocate specific time slots for studying, and try to stick to your schedule as closely as possible.
Set Realistic Goals:
Break down your US CMA exam preparation into smaller, manageable goals. This will make the overall process less overwhelming. Prioritize topics based on their weight in the exam and your own understanding of them.
Utilize Weekends and Downtime:
Maximize your productivity by studying during weekends and any downtime you may have during the week. Carry study materials with you so you can review notes during breaks or while commuting (if applicable).
Communicate with Your Employer:
If possible, inform your employer about your US CMA exam preparation. They may be supportive and flexible with your work schedule. Discuss the possibility of taking time off or adjusting your workload during the exam period.
Effective Time Management:
Identify and eliminate time-wasting activities to make the most of your study time.
Use tools like the Pomodoro technique, where you work in focused intervals (e.g., 25 minutes) followed by short breaks.
Prioritize Self-Care:
Ensure you get enough sleep, exercise, and maintain a healthy diet. Physical and mental well-being are crucial for effective studying. Do not neglect relaxation and leisure activities to prevent burnout.
Practice with Mock Exams:
For effective US CMA exam preparation, take mock exams under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam environment. Identify weak areas and focus your efforts on improving in those specific areas.
Stay Organized:
Keep your study materials organized to avoid wasting time searching for notes or resources.
Use tools like calendars, planners, or digital apps to manage deadlines and priorities.
Join Study Groups:
Consider joining or forming a study group with fellow US CMA exam preparation candidates. Group discussions can enhance your understanding of complex topics and provide support.
Stay Positive and Flexible:
Understand that unexpected events may disrupt your schedule. Stay positive, be flexible, and adjust your plans when necessary. Celebrate small achievements and milestones to stay motivated throughout the preparation process.
Remember that achieving a balance requires ongoing adjustments. Regularly reassess your schedule and priorities to ensure that you are making progress in all areas of your life.
Hope the practical advices help you to balance your work ,life and US CMA exam preparation in more meaningful manner.
The US CMA course or certification is offered by IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) of USA, which is the worldwide association of accountants and financial professionals in business. It was founded in 1919, having 90,000+ members and global reach of 140 countries through 300 professional and student chapters.
CMA® (Certified Management Accountant) certification has been the global benchmark for management accountants and financial professionals. You can now get a professional certification from the USA within 12 – 18 months.
The CMA certification is well recognized by all the MNCs, Big 4 audit firms, US Banks, Consulting firms and other BFSI companies having offices in India. This certification from IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) is considered to be on par with the Indian CMA by most employers.
CMA certified professionals are observed to get a career and earnings premium. In the US, median total compensation is 28% higher for CMAs over non certified peers. Globally, it’s 50% higher.
If you’re planning for your US CMA course credential, you should know the CMA exam dates, schedule, and deadlines. Plus, it’s essential to understand how to register and manage your time.
1. Steps to become a US CMA
1. Foundational knowledge of economics, basic statistics, and financial accounting
2. Pass both CMA exam parts
3. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
4. Any major, no course distribution requirements
5. Most CMA candidates hold a degree in accounting or finance
6. May be earned within 7 years of passing US CMA exam parts
7. Two years of professional work experience
8. May be fulfilled within 7 years of passing CMA exam parts
9. Active membership in IMA
2. Requirements to maintain US CMA certification
1. 30 hours of CPE annually
2. CPE must include 2 hours of ethics training
3. Maintain active IMA membership
3. Which CMA part one should take first?
It is to be noted, you do not have to take the US CMA course exam parts 1 and 2 in order. It’s completely up to you. For example, you can choose to take Part 2 first, if you want. So, how do you decide? The first step is to know what content each part contains. If one part seems significantly easier for you, then you can choose to tackle that one first. There really isn’t a right or wrong way, since in the end, you need to complete and pass both parts to get your certification.
4. The IMA breaks it down like this:
Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
15% External Financial Reporting Decisions
20% Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting
20% Performance Management
15% Cost Management
15% Internal Controls
15% Technology and Analytics
Many candidates find Part 1 to be more difficult since it covers more topics and a wider array of subject matter. You can read more about CMA Exam Part 2 difficulty compared to Part 1 if you want to learn more.
In general, Part 2 has fewer subjects and units, so many people do consider it easier. Personally, I was more frustrated with Part 2. It seems easier when you look at it, but the questions were not as straightforward as Part 1.
Part 2: Strategic Financial Management
20% Financial Statement Analysis
20% Corporate Finance
25% Decision Analysis
10% Risk Management
10% Investment Decisions
15% Professional Ethics
You will have an average of 12-18 months to complete each part, with 3 years to complete both. Many people sit for the exams in order, taking Part 1 first since it seems the most logical.
However, some people think Part 2 will be easier for them, so they register to take it first and get it out of the way. The choice is yours. If you want to review the material a bit more and then make a decision, that is one option.
1. Each exam part is four hours in length
2. 100 multiple choice questions, followed by two 30-minute essay scenarios
3. Exam administered at Prometric testing facilities across India.
5. Overview of 2022 US CMA exam dates
You need to understand the US CMA course exam schedule to register for your exam dates. Maybe you’ve been studying for weeks (or even months), and you finally feel confident enough to book your CPA exam date in 2022. However, it’s not possible to take the exam whenever you wish.
First, you must schedule your CMA exam within one of the testing windows. The good news is that we already know the CMA exam dates for 2022, so you have plenty of time to prepare. Furthermore, understanding the timeframe for the testing windows is essential to your CMA exam schedule.
The IMA currently offers three testing windows each year for the CMA accounting exam dates, as follows:
CMA Testing Window
First Exam Date
Last Exam Date
Last Date to Register
January/February
Jan. 1, 2022
Feb. 28, 2022
Feb. 15, 2022
May/June
May 1, 2022
June 30, 2022
June 15, 2022
September/October
Sept. 1, 2022
Oct. 31, 2022
Oct. 15, 2022
Additionally, the dates are the same for each section of the two-part exam. Therefore, the CMA exam part 2 dates are identical to the part 1 dates. If you miss your testing window, you’ll have more hassles than just needing to reschedule. After all, it could throw your study plan off by months. Missing a testing window isn’t the end of the world, but it’s always better to avoid it when possible. Since the testing windows are always the same, you can avoid this problem by being proactive about your planning.
6. Scheduling the Exam with Prometric Centre
Upon selecting the appropriate test window, next comes the booking of your exam slot. Prometric offers convenient, online, anywhere, anytime scheduling and registration with global contact center support. Using the Prometric website, test takers can quickly, easily and conveniently register or schedule an exam online anytime they wish.
Online test scheduling allows test takers to search for the exam they want to take, locate a test center near them, select a time and date to test and book the exam, all from the Prometric website. You will schedule your test with Prometric.
However, you can either take the CMA at a Prometric test center near you, or you can choose online remote proctoring from your own computer at home. If you choose to take it in-person, plan carefully, since planning potential travel arrangements is also essential when you schedule a test. You can also use the same Prometric dashboard to reschedule or cancel your test and to confirm your test once you have scheduled it.
Next, in order to reserve a space at the Prometric exam site or to reserve a remote proctored time slot, you will need an authorization number. It is advised that you send in your registration around 6 weeks before the intended date of your exam to ensure everything is processed on time. Keep in mind that many people are trying to register, and spots may be limited, especially at more popular testing centers.
Finally, remember that you must be an IMA member before you register for the exam.
Now that you know the IMA CMA exam dates, let’s look at some tips for scheduling your appointment.
7. Tips related to scheduling of US CMA Exam
If possible, schedule your exam in the first month of a testing window (i.e., Jan, May, Sep). This gives you more time in case you need to reschedule. This could save you money in the long run, where rescheduling fees are involved.
Candidates are allowed to reschedule their exams for free within the same testing window as long as their test date is still 30 days away. For example, if you run out of studying time, you can still postpone your January exam to February. If you schedule the exam in February, you can’t extend it to May, and instead must pay in full for your next exam. Of course, no one likes to think they will need to reschedule their exam, but you never know what will happen. Putting yourself in the position of having the free rescheduling time is a smart move, just in case.
Top US CMA Exam tips – the preparation strategy [ 2021 Update] :- The most important part is the study/preparation in a guided manner having a proper schedule. Eventually, you will be adapted to the syllabus and format of the US CMA exam. But the ultimate aim is to clear the exam in shorter duration and obviously at first attempt.…continue reading
8. Other Important CMA Exam Dates IMA
In addition to knowing the exam windows, you should be aware of a few other restrictions for scheduling your US CMA course exam.
1. All exam appointments must be made with Prometric at least 72 hours before your exam date.
2. If you need to cancel an exam appointment, you must do so at least 72 hours before your date, according to Prometric’s policies.
3. Exam appointments must be scheduled within the same testing window. For example, if your original appointment was in the January/February window, you can’t reschedule for the May/June window.
9. Time Management
It is of utmost importance to understand your “CMA clock.” You have to complete all steps of the certification process within a certain timeline. Please note that the countdown on your CMA exam clock starts the day you pay the CMA entrance fee. On this date, you’re officially “in” and your work to become a CMA begins. Specifically, you must register for the exam within 12 months of entering the CMA program and pass both parts of the CMA exam within 3 years. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of your window and not to allow these dates to pass you by.
If you run down your CMA exam clock, you must start all over again by re-paying the entrance fee. To manage and track your CMA exam clock, most people keep a CMA calendar. You can also work this CMA exam calendar into your study program to help you stay on track.
10. Example of US CMA Exam Scheduler- At a Glance
Let’s take January 1 ,2022 as the day of commencement and to wrap up the whole thing within 6 months.
1. Apply for IMA membership and pay the entrance fee – January 2022
2. Pick a CMA review course and start studying – January 2022
3. Pick your CMA test exam dates and register for the CMA exam – around mid-March 2022
4. Sit for the exam (Part 1) – May 2022
5. Sit for the exam (Part 2) – June 2022
6. Pass the 2 parts and get your CMA certification.
You can make your personalized roadmap to US CMA based on the above example accordingly.
11. US CMA Exam Score Release Date 2022
Your CMA exam result date is based on a formula depending on your test window. They say the waiting is truly the hardest part. And while this may be true, you can do some value-added things while you wait.
Results come 6 weeks from the last day of the month you took the test, plus or minus a day.
Example:
1. If you take the exam on January 30, you will know the date sometime in the middle of March.
2. If you take the exam a few weeks earlier on January 2, your CMA exam result is released the same day as the above. Why? Well, you’ll wait 6 weeks after the end of the month you tested.
So, in this example, if you choose any CMA January 2022 exam date, you won’t get your results until March. The results will be updated online in your IMA profile almost immediately from this date. Furthermore, Prometric will email you a performance report about 14 days after your exam.
12. Stats from IMA regarding US CMA
1. The CMA has a 45% pass rate globally
2. 5,000 CMAs granted each year on average
3. 100,000 CMAs awarded to date
13. IMA: Important Updates for IMA Members and CMA candidates
A. Testing Center Update
Updated on April 27, 2022
As we continue to monitor the global COVID-19 pandemic, our top priority remains the health and safety of all CMA candidates and our staff. Given the current outlook, please note the following schedule and process changes:
B. Prometric testing centers are open
Most Prometric testing centers around the world are open, many at full capacity. Review the complete list of open Prometric testing centers. Note: This list is subject to change.
C. Update to mask/exposure policy:
In light of recent trends and mask mandate changes around the world, along with updated guidance from leading world health organizations, effective May 1, Prometric will not require masks to be worn in testing centers. Prometric, however, will continue to allow and encourage the wearing of masks regardless of mandate or vaccination status. Please note: If masks are mandated in a specific market by local government and/or health officials, then Prometric will follow that guidance in testing centers as well.
In addition, regarding COVID-19 exposure, if a candidate has tested positive for COVID-19 or reports exposure to someone who has COVID-19, Prometric asks that they wait five days and are symptom free prior to testing.
D. Proof of vaccination
In an effort to comply with regional and local/government guidance and mandates, some Prometric testing centers are now requiring candidates to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination at check-in.
Prometric maintains a list of test sites globally that require proof of vaccination in order to test. Candidates testing at these identified sites should be prepared to present the documentation provided to them by their healthcare provider at the time of vaccination. Prometric will update this list on a regular basis.
Candidates should check for additional details by visiting Prometric’s COVID update page.
Have more questions regarding testing sites and COVID-19? Go to the Prometric FAQ page now.
14. What to expect on test day?
This video will provide you with a detailed overview of what to expect during your visit to a Prometric test center.
A. Prometric has resumed biometric procedures
Prometric has reinstated its biometric procedures, specifically fingerprint and ID scans. Out of an abundance of caution, all test takers will be required to use hand sanitizer before using any fingerprint scanners, and Prometric staff will wipe down devices with cleaner after each use to help reduce any risk of transmission. Prometric test center staff are trained on how to assist test takers in using fingerprint and ID scans from an appropriate distance. More information about these policies can be found on the enhanced test center procedures page on Prometric’s website.
B.Remote Testing Option
CMA candidates now have the option of taking their exams either in-person at a Prometric test center or remotely using Prometric’s ProProctor™ service. Certain technology and space requirements apply. Please see the Remote Testing webpage for complete details.
C. Education Transcript Submission
Change to submission process for education transcripts
CMA candidates must submit all required educational transcripts to ICMA electronically on a temporary basis. Please email all documents in PDF format and make sure to include your IMA membership number. Send to:
If you have already submitted your educational documents by mail, please resubmit a scanned copy of your documents to the above email address. To register to take the CMA exam, please visit the exam registration page.
15. Summary
By now, after browsing this write up, you being a CMA US aspirant, believed to be well acquainted with the CMA US course and the procedures of registration and booking of the CMA US exam through prometric centers. Till available updates are provided to help you take steps judiciously to complete the entire process. Last but not the least, everything depends on the status of your preparation and preparation brings confidence and it is the confidence that will pave your way to become a CMA US in the long run.
Select the Premier Institute for becoming a CMA US at First Attempt
Uplift Pro is an official partner of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA, for providing 360-degree study support for the prestigious and globally demanded US CMA certification.
Salient Features of the US CMA Course
1. US CMA course is a worldwide demanded qualification in Finance.
2.The US CMA course has just 2 parts.
3. US CMA exams can be cleared in 7 to 9 months time.
4. Exams are conducted online at the prometric centers.
5.Typically, the US CMA exams have 75% of the questions as MCQs (objective type) and the rests are Essay questions.
6. Pass percentage of US CMA course is globally near-about 50%, Uplift Pro has a pass percentage of more than 70%. We are one the smartest US CMA institutes in India.
7. Along with providing CMA Study Support, we uplift the soft skills of our students, if required, and also help them in getting placed in leading companies in and outside India.
8. US CMA course helps professionals to build a career across the globe.
9. Uplift Pro is a valued CMA study center recognized by the IMA US and Gleim Accounting for training students for the US CMA course. Students of Uplift Pro enjoy special discounts in IMA fees.
10. A US CMA is respected worldwide to be the decision maker in the industry and formulate robust finance and accounting strategies.
11. Uplift Pro’s US CMA live online classes are scheduled and designed in such a way you can avail them from your home computer after your regular working hours.
12. Uplift Pro provides “Till you pass” guarantee to every student which means once you become our student you may attend our live online classes at no extra cost until you pass.
13. In case you miss a class, you get the recording of it the very next morning.
14. You get 1:1 personal support from our experienced CMA certified faculties in class and out of the class in dedicated WhatsApp study groups.
Request for Live Demo class / contact at +91-8787088850 to book your seats now
