To earn the CMA, you must: hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (or professional equivalent), clear both exam parts, meet the IMA’s 2-year relevant experience rule, maintain IMA membership, follow its ethical code, and complete annual CPE credits.
Why These Requirements Matter Before You Spend a Rupee or a Minute
The Certified Management Accountant requirements are more than a checklist; they’re a filter ensuring you have the academic base, the work exposure, and the discipline to thrive in strategic finance.
Meeting the CMA eligibility criteria up front saves you money, re-exam fees, and months of effort.
The Core Certified Management Accountant Requirements, Explained
1. Education – Degree or Recognised Professional Qualification
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or an accepted professional qualification (e.g. CA, ACCA).
- Fresh graduates can start the exam, but must submit proof within 7 years.
2. IMA Membership
- You must be an active member of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA).
- Student or professional membership, choose what fits your stage.
3. Exam Structure & Pass Rule
- Two parts, 100 MCQs + 2 essays each.
- You need to pass both within a 3-year exam window after registration.
4. Relevant Experience (2 Years)
- Two continuous years in accounting/finance roles involving analysis, budgeting, or decision support.
- Can be completed before or within seven years after passing the exams.
5. Ethics & Continued Professional Education
- Comply with the IMA Statement of Ethical Professional Practice.
- After certification, complete 30 CPE hours yearly (2 ethics).
Requirement & Proof Table
| Requirement | Set By | What You Actually Need | Proof You Submit | When to Submit |
| Education (Bachelor’s/Professional Qual.) | IMA | Degree or recognised qualification | Degree certificate / transcripts | Within 7 years of exam pass |
| IMA Membership | IMA | Active membership (student/professional) | Membership ID / email confirmation | Before scheduling exams |
| Pass Both Exam Parts | IMA | Part 1 & Part 2 cleared in 3 years | Score reports (auto-recorded with IMA) | Within 3-year testing window |
| 2 Years Relevant Experience | IMA | Continuous accounting/finance role | Employer verification form / letter | By 7 years post-exam |
| Ethics & Ongoing CPE | IMA | Follow ethics code + 30 CPE hours annually | CPE certificates, ethics declarations | After certification, yearly |
A Unique Angle—Your “CMA Readiness Score” (Rate Yourself 0–5)
Use this quick self-audit to decide if you’re ready to invest:
- Academic Base (0–5): Do you already have the degree/qualification that the IMA accepts?
- Time for Study (0–5): Can you carve out 10–12 hours a week for 6–8 months?
- Work Experience Path (0–5): Are you in, or can you move into, roles that tick the “relevant experience” box?
- Budget & ROI Clarity (0–5): Fees + coaching + exam retakes vs expected salary jump, does the maths make sense to you?
- Support System (0–5): Mentor, study group, or institute like Imarticus to keep you accountable?
Sum up.
If the score is below 15, then pause and plan.
If the score is 16–20, then you’re close.
And if it crosses 20, then you should go for it.
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CMA Certification Process
Step 1 – Confirm CMA Eligibility Criteria
Check your degree status and job role alignment. If you’re still studying, plan when you’ll submit documents.
Step 2 – Join the IMA & Pay Entrance Fee
Membership opens the exam gateway. Keep the receipt; you’ll need the member ID constantly.
Step 3 – Register for Part 1 or Part 2
Stagger if work is intense. Many Indian candidates tackle Part 1 first (Financial Planning, Performance & Analytics).
Step 4 – Book Your Testing Window
Pearson VUE centres run three windows a year (Jan–Feb, May–Jun, Sep–Oct). Seats fill quickly.
Step 5 – Prep Smart, Not Just Hard
Leverage CMA exam preparation tips: active recall, mock tests, and application-based practice.
Step 6 – Clear Both Parts, Track Your 3-Year Clock
Don’t let life events push you over the 3-year limit.
Step 7 – Submit Experience & Get Certified
File your experience verification form, receive the certificate, and flaunt the credential—ethically.
Fresh Stat to Consider
According to IMA’s published figures, global pass rates hover around the 45–50% mark for each part, meaning nearly one in two candidates fail a part. That’s a persuasive reason to get guidance before you dive in.
CMA Exam Preparation Tips That Work
- Map the syllabus to job tasks: It sticks better when you see it in your daily spreadsheets.
- Use spaced repetition: Don’t cram; revisit weaker areas every week.
- Practise essay-writing under time pressure: Many Indian candidates neglect essays—don’t.
- Review after each mock: Track where you lost marks, not just your score.
FAQs
1. Do I need work experience before attempting the CMA exams?
No. You can sit the exams first and complete the 2-year experience within seven years.
2. What counts as “relevant experience”?
Roles in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, budgeting, or decision support—anything that uses management accounting skills.
3. Can final-year students apply?
Yes. They can write the exams and submit their degree proof later.
4. How long does the entire CMA certification process usually take?
Most working professionals complete it in 9–18 months, depending on workload.
5. Is the CMA recognised in India?
Yes. Multinationals and many large Indian firms value it for strategic finance roles.
Key Takeaways
- Know the gatekeepers: Education, experience, ethics, and membership are the non-negotiable Certified Management Accountant requirements.
- Plan the process: Map your 3-year exam window and 7-year experience deadline right now.
- Invest smartly: Coaching, mock tests, and mentorship can be cheaper than repeated exam fees.
If you want a guided path that aligns with CMA course details India, speak to an expert counsellor at Imarticus Learning. Get a personalised study timeline, EMI options, and placement support, so your investment pays off.