US CMA Course: Your Path to Global Success

The US CMA (Certified Management Accountant) course could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for. Known for its global recognition and focus on strategic management and financial expertise, the CMA certification opens doors to exciting career opportunities. Whether you’re an aspiring accountant or a seasoned professional, this course equips you with the skills to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment. Let’s dive into what makes the USA CMA course a standout choice!

US CMA Course: Overview

The US CMA (Certified Management Accountant) course is a globally recognized certification that opens up numerous opportunities for professionals in management accounting and finance. The certification of the CMA course is administered by the Institute of Management Accountants(IMA) and is respected by over 170 countries worldwide. 

Concerned about your study gap? Read: Acceptable study gap in USA

Specializations under US CMA Course 

​The CMA program does not have formal specializations.​ However, it covers a wide range of competencies relevant to management accounting and financial management that professionals can leverage to specialize in certain areas through their career choices. The CMA credential signals advanced skills in several domains:

• Financial Accounting: Professionals with a CMA certification can delve into advanced financial reporting and analysis, improving their capabilities in managing an organization’s finances.

• Strategic Planning: The course fosters strategic thinking essential for roles in corporate finance, emphasizing skills that can be applied to high-level management functions, including executive roles like CFO.

• Business Analysis: CMAs are trained in business analytics, helping organizations make informed decisions based on financial data.

US CMA Course Syllabus

The US CMA Course Syllabus is structured into two parts, each covering several key topics that equip candidates with the necessary skills. The syllabus includes the following:

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

The table below carries the CMA USA Part 1 syllabus:

USA’s CMA Part 1: Syllabus
External Financial Reporting Decisions (15%):	Understanding financial statements and their uses for stakeholders.
Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting (20%):	Skills in setting financial goals and creating budgets that align with organizational strategy.
Performance Management (20%):	Techniques for assessing business performance metrics and ensuring alignment with operational goals.
Cost Management (15%):	Insights into controlling and optimizing costs to maximize profitability.
Internal Controls (15%):	Developing and applying controls to safeguard company assets and ensure accurate reporting.
Technology and Analytics (15%):	Using technology for the decision-making process and data analysis.

Read On: ACCA Salary in the UK with Highest-Paying Jobs

Explore: Cost of Studying in the USA for Indian Students

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

The table below carries the CMA USA Part 2 syllabus:

USA’s CMA Part 2: Syllabus
Financial Statement Analysis (20%):	Skills in assessing and interpreting financial statements to make informed decisions.
Corporate Finance (20%):	Principles of finance related to corporate decision-making, capital structure, and financing strategies.
Decision Analysis (25%):	Techniques for making strategic financial decisions based on quantitative and qualitative analysis.
Risk Management (10%):	Identifying and managing risk to protect company assets and ensure sustainable growth.
Investment Decisions (10%):	Evaluating investment opportunities and understanding capital budgeting processes.
Professional Ethics (15%):	Emphasizing ethical standards and professional practice is present within the finance and accounting sector.

This comprehensive syllabus is designed to ensure that candidates acquire the requisite knowledge and skills to excel in various management accounting roles globally. 

Best Colleges in the USA for CMA Course 

Pursuing the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation is highly esteemed within the fields of accounting and finance. Several colleges and universities in the USA offer exceptional support for CMA preparation through dedicated programs and resources. Explore the  below table for the CMA course in USA fees:

Universities	Overview	Average Fees
University of Texas at Austin	The McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin offers robust accounting programs that are highly regarded. This school provides excellent resources for CMA exam preparation, including comprehensive coursework and support programs that help students excel in the CMA certification process.	$40,996
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has a well-structured accounting program that is known for its high pass rates for the CMA exam.	$24,000
University of Florida	The University of Florida offers a solid foundation for those aiming to achieve CMA certification, with a focus on management accounting and financial analysis.	$42,683.94
University of Southern California	The USC Marshall School of Business offers accounting programs that provide excellent preparation for the CMA exams.
Wright State University	Wright State University’s accounting program not only prepares students for the accounting profession but also provides specialized resources for CMA exam candidates.	$27,702

USA CMA Course: Exam Pattern

The US CMA (Certified Management Accountant) exam is structured to assess candidates’ knowledge and skills in management accounting and financial management.​ Understanding the exam pattern is crucial for effective preparation. Below are the key components of the CMA exam pattern:

Exam Structure

The CMA exam consists of two parts, each designed to evaluate different aspects of management accounting. Candidates can take these parts in any order, giving them flexibility in scheduling:

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

Duration and Format of the USA CMA Course

Total Duration: Each part of the CMA exam lasts for four hours.

Let’s see the Question Distribution:

• Multiple-choice questions (MCQs): 100 MCQs in each part, accounting for 75% of the total score.

• Essay Questions: 2 essay scenarios per part, representing 25% of the total score. Candidates typically receive 30 minutes for each essay.

Candidates must score at least 50% in the MCQ section to proceed to the essay portion. 

Scoring and Passing Criteria

Marking Scheme: Each part of the CMA exam is scored on a scale of 0 to 500.

The minimum passing score for both parts is 360. This score represents a level of proficiency necessary to demonstrate competency in the subject matter covered by the exam.

Testing Windows

The CMA exam is offered during three testing windows each year:

• January and February
• May and June
• September and October

Candidates can book their exams during these periods, enabling them to tailor their preparation timelines according to personal schedules and readiness.

Eligibility Requirements for the US CMA Course 

To qualify for the US CMA course, candidates must meet specific educational and experience requirements set by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). Below are the key eligibility criteria:

1. Educational Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. 

Alternate Certifications: The IMA allows certain professional certifications to fulfill educational requirements. Acceptable certifications include:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
• Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
• Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

If candidates hold any of these certifications, they may qualify for the CMA without a traditional Bachelor’s degree.

2. Experience Requirements

Professional Experience: Candidates are required to have at least two continuous years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.

Qualifying Experience: The professional experience requirement can be satisfied through various roles, including but not limited to:

• Financial Analyst
• Management Accountant
• Budget Analyst
• Financial Controller
• Financial Manager

3. Membership Requirement

Active membership in the IMA is essential for candidates to be eligible for the CMA exam. Candidates must maintain their membership status throughout the certification process.

Scholarships for US CMA Course

​There are various scholarship opportunities specifically designed for students pursuing the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification in the USA.​ These scholarships aim to support aspiring accountants by covering exam costs and providing additional resources. Below are some notable scholarships available for potential CMA candidates:

Scholarship	Overview
IMA Student Scholarship	The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) offers a scholarship program that enables students to complete the CMA or the Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate (FMAA) program at no cost. Eligible students must be nominated by a professor from an IMA-endorsed or IMA partner school.
CMA Doctoral Scholarship	The CMA Doctoral Scholarship Program is available to students enrolled in an accredited doctoral accounting program focusing on management accounting or financial management.
IMA Century Scholarship	The IMA Century Scholarship recognizes up to two active IMA student members from endorsed or officially recognized student chapters.
EFWA Institute of Management Accountants Scholarship	Offered by the Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting (EFWA), this scholarship supports female students pursuing Bachelor’s degrees in accounting along with CMA certification.

You might like: Navigating on-campus vs off-campus jobs in the USA

How to Apply in US’s CMA Course?

Applying for the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification in the USA involves several structured steps, ranging from becoming an IMA member to scheduling and completing the CMA exams. Below is a detailed guide on how to apply for the CMA certification.

Step 1: Become an IMA Member	Before applying for the CMA program, candidates must become a member of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA).
Step 2: Enroll in the CMA Program	Once enrolled as an IMA member, candidates can join the CMA program: CMA Entrance Fee: Candidates must pay the non-refundable CMA entrance fee, which is typically $300 for professional members or $225 for students.  Total Cost: $1585(includes $295 membership, $300 entrance fee, and $990 for both parts of the exam) for professionals, $1035(includes $49 membership, $225 entrance fees, and $760 for both parts of the exam) for students.
Step 3: Meet Educational and Experience Requirements	Candidates must ensure that they meet the necessary educational and professional experience criteria.
Step 4: Schedule Your CMA Exams	Following enrollment in the CMA program, candidates can schedule their exams.
Step 5: Prepare for the CMA Exams	Preparation for the CMA exam is crucial: Study Materials: Utilize IMA-provided study materials or invest in third-party review courses specifically designed for CMA exam preparation.
Step 6: Write Your Exams	On the exam day, candidates should arrive early at their scheduled testing site with the required identification and any necessary materials:
Step 7: Submit Required Documentation	After passing both exam parts, candidates must submit proof of their educational qualifications and work experience to IMA for certification: Documentation: This includes original transcripts (or notarized copies) and verification of work experience. Candidates have up to seven years post-exam to submit these documents.

​In summary, applying for the CMA certification in the USA involves a series of structured steps, from becoming an IMA member to successfully completing and documenting the examination process.​ 

Summary

The USA CMA (Certified Management Accountant) course is a globally recognized certification offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), designed to advance careers in management accounting and finance. In this blog, we explore the course structure, covering key topics like financial planning, analytics, and strategic management, alongside eligibility requirements, exam patterns, and top universities offering support.

You’ll also learn about scholarships that make this prestigious certification more accessible. With insights and guidance from this blog, you’ll be ready to take the next step toward earning your CMA credential and unlocking global career opportunities.

Your next read: Cheapest universities in USA for International students 

FAQs

Ques 1: What is the USA CMA course?

Answer: The USA CMA (Certified Management Accountant) course is a globally recognized certification offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) for professionals specializing in management accounting and strategic financial management.

Ques 2: Who offers the USA CMA certification?

Answer: The certification is administered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), a globally respected professional body.

Ques 3: What topics are covered in the USA CMA syllabus?

Answer: The syllabus is divided into two parts:

• Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics (topics like Budgeting, Cost Management, and Technology).
• Part 2: Strategic Financial Management (topics like Corporate Finance, Risk Management, and Professional Ethics).

Ques 4: Are there any specializations in the USA CMA course?

Answer: No, the CMA program does not have formal specializations. However, it provides a broad foundation in management accounting and financial management, enabling professionals to specialize through career choices.

Ques 5: What is the eligibility for the USA CMA course?

Answer: To qualify, candidates need:

• A bachelor’s degree or recognized professional certification.
• Two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.
• Active IMA membership.

Ques 6: What are the testing windows for the CMA exam?

Answer: The exam is conducted during three windows each year:

• January-February
• May-June
• September-October

Ques 7: How much does the USA CMA course cost?

Answer: For professionals, the total cost is approximately $1,585, and for students, it’s around $1,035. This includes membership, entrance fees, and exam fees.

Ques 8: How do I apply for the USA CMA certification?

Answer: To apply:

1. Become an IMA member.
2. Enroll in the CMA program.
3. Meet the educational and experience requirements.
4. Schedule and complete the exams.
5. Submit the required documentation for certification.

Ques 9: Why should I pursue the USA CMA certification?

Answer: The CMA certification boosts your career by equipping you with advanced skills in financial planning, strategic management, and business analysis, making you eligible for senior-level roles globally.