If you are planning to pursue the CMA credential, understanding the certified management accountant fees is essential before starting your preparation. The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification is globally recognized and highly respected in management accounting, financial planning, and corporate strategy roles.
In this guide, we break down the complete certified management accountant fees, including registration, exam costs, membership charges, and additional expenses you should consider.
What is Certified Management Accountant (CMA)?
The Certified Management Accountant credential is awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA. It focuses on:
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Financial Planning & Analysis
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Cost Management
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Budgeting & Forecasting
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Risk Management
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Strategic Decision-Making
The CMA exam consists of two parts, both of which must be cleared to earn the certification.
Certified Management Accountant Fees – Official Structure
The total certified management accountant fees are divided into three main components:
1️⃣ IMA Membership Fee (Annual)
To register for the CMA program, you must first become an IMA member.
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Professional Membership: Approx. $295 per year
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Student Membership: Approx. $49 per year
Membership must remain active to access exam benefits.
2️⃣ CMA Entrance Fee (One-Time)
This is a one-time registration fee to enter the CMA program.
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Professionals: $300
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Students/Academics: $225
The entrance fee is valid for three years, within which both exam parts must be completed.
3️⃣ CMA Exam Fees (Per Part)
Since CMA has two parts, exam fees are charged separately for each part:
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Professionals: $495 per part
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Students: $370 per part
Total exam cost will depend on your category.
Total Certified Management Accountant Fees (Estimated)
Here is an approximate breakdown of the total certified management accountant fees:
???? For Students:
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IMA Membership: $49
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Entrance Fee: $225
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Exam Fees (2 Parts): $740
Total ≈ $1,014
???? For Professionals:
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IMA Membership: $295
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Entrance Fee: $300
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Exam Fees (2 Parts): $990
Total ≈ $1,585
(Fees are subject to change as per IMA updates.)
Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating complete certified management accountant fees, you should also consider:
✔️ Coaching Fees
In India, CMA coaching may range between: ₹40,000 – ₹1,20,000 depending on faculty, support, and learning mode.
✔️ Study Materials
If purchased separately (Gleim/Wiley): ₹30,000 – ₹45,000 approx.
✔️ Exam Rescheduling Fee
If you reschedule your exam: Approximately $50.
Certified Management Accountant Fees in INR (Approx.)
Based on exchange rate (₹83–₹85 per USD):
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Students: ₹85,000 – ₹95,000 (official fees only)
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Professionals: ₹1,30,000 – ₹1,40,000 (official fees only)
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With coaching & materials: ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 Lakhs total investment
Is Certified Management Accountant Worth the Cost?
Considering career growth and salary potential, the certified management accountant fees offer strong return on investment. Benefits include:
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Global recognition
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High demand in MNCs
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Fast completion (6–12 months possible)
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Strong salary growth opportunities
Final Thoughts
Understanding the full structure of certified management accountant fees helps you plan your certification journey strategically. While there is an upfront investment, the long-term professional benefits often outweigh the costs.
If your goal is to build expertise in management accounting and strategic finance, the CMA credential can be a powerful career accelerator.