CMA EXAM

Exam:

Certified Management Accountant Exam

Industry:

Accounting

Country:

Global

CMA Exam Overview

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam, administered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), is a globally recognized certification for accounting and finance professionals. The exam consists of two parts:

  • Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
  • Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

Exam Format

  • Each part of the CMA exam is 4 hours long
  • The exams are 100% computerized
  • Exams consist of 100 multiple-choice questions and two 30-minute essay questions
  • Candidates must complete both exam parts within 3 years

Exam Content

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics Part 2: Strategic Financial Management
  • External Financial Reporting Decisions (15%)
  • Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting (20%)
  • Performance Management (20%)
  • Cost Management (15%)
  • Internal Controls (15%)
  • Technology and Analytics (15%)
  • Financial Statement Analysis (20%)
  • Corporate Finance (20%)
  • Decision Analysis (25%)
  • Risk Management (10%)
  • Investment Decisions (10%)
  • Professional Ethics (15%)

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the CMA exam, candidates must meet the following requirements:

  • Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
  • Have two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management
  • Be an active member of the IMA

Exam Registration and Fees

  • Candidates must register for the CMA exam through the IMA website
  • Exam fees for IMA members: $415 per part
  • Exam fees for non-members: $520 per part
  • Additional fees may apply for rescheduling or cancellations

Who Should Consider the CMA Certification?

The CMA certification is well-suited for:
  • Accounting and finance professionals seeking to advance their careers in management accounting or financial management
  • Individuals interested in globally recognized certification that demonstrates expertise in accounting and finance
  • Professionals who want to enhance their skills in financial planning, performance management, decision analysis, and risk management

Related Certifications and Credentials

Other certifications and credentials related to the CMA include:
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Focuses on auditing, taxation, and financial reporting
  • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): Emphasizes investment analysis and portfolio management
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA): Concentrates on internal auditing and risk management
  • Certified Financial Planner (CFP): Deals with personal financial planning and wealth management

Benefits of the CMA Certification

Obtaining the CMA certification offers several advantages:
  • Career advancement opportunities in management accounting and financial management roles
  • Increased earning potential compared to non-certified professionals
  • Demonstration of expertise and commitment to the accounting and finance profession
  • Access to a global network of CMA-certified professionals and resources through the IMA

Preparing for the CMA Exam

To successfully prepare for the CMA exam, candidates should:
  • Review the exam content outline provided by the IMA to understand the topics covered
  • Utilize study materials and review courses specifically designed for the CMA exam
  • Develop a study plan that allows sufficient time to cover all exam topics and practice with sample questions
  • Take advantage of resources offered by the IMA, such as study guides, webinars, and exam support
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