Before you enrol for the US CMA course, confirm that you meet the IMA's requirements. The rules are straightforward, but Indian candidates need to pay attention to degree equivalence and documentation.
The three core requirements
- Education: a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, or an equivalent qualification recognised by IMA.
- IMA membership and registration: you must join IMA and enter the CMA programme.
- Experience: two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management, which can often be completed before or within a set period after passing the exams.
Confirm all rules on the IMA website, since they can change .
B.Com, BBA and commerce graduates
Most commerce-based degrees from recognised universities are accepted, but IMA may ask for transcripts or an evaluation. Keep your mark sheets and degree certificates ready.
Engineers and non-commerce graduates
Your degree can still qualify, though you may need extra preparation in accounting topics. The US CMA course is open to graduates from varied streams.
CA, ICWA and other qualified candidates
Qualified accountants often meet the education requirement and may already hold the required experience, which can make the path faster .
MBA graduates
An MBA with a recognised bachelor's degree meets the education requirement. Experience in finance roles counts towards the experience requirement.
Final-year students
IMA has allowed students in the final year of a bachelor's degree to enter the programme in some cases. This lets you start exams early, though you must complete the degree and experience to be certified.
Documents typically needed
- Degree certificate and transcripts
- Identity proof
- Passport-size photograph
- Proof of employment or experience when applying for certification
What counts as relevant experience?
Roles such as FP&A, costing, budgeting, management reporting, financial analysis, internal audit and controllership usually qualify. Confirm with IMA if your role is borderline
Common questions
- Can I take the exams before I have experience? In many cases yes; experience is needed for certification.
- Is there an age limit? IMA does not typically set an upper age limit .
Next steps
Check your degree, plan your timeline and decide when to register. TWSS counsellors can help you plan around the US CMA course
Not sure you qualify? Book a free counselling session with TWSS.
