CMA USA Fees Breakdown: Registration, Exam & Certification Costs Explained

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification is globally recognized in over 150 countries, which can significantly enhance your career in management accounting and financial management. However, before embarking on this journey, it’s essential to understand the financial commitment involved. This blog will discuss the breakdown of various fees associated with the CMA USA certification, including CMA course fees, CMA registration fees, CMA exam fees, and CMA exemption fees.

CMA COURSE FEES

The CMA course fees refer to the costs of preparing for the CMA exams. These fees can vary depending on the study materials, coaching, or online courses you choose.

• Self-Study Materials: If you prefer self-study, you can purchase textbooks, practice questions, and online resources. These materials typically cost, depending on the provider and the comprehensiveness of the package.
• Online Review Courses: Many candidates opt for online review courses. The course fees vary from one provider to another and often include video lectures, mock exams, and study planners.
• Classroom Coaching: If you prefer in-person coaching, the fees can be higher, ranging depending on the institute and location.

CMA REGISTRATION FEES

To become a CMA candidate, you must register with the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), the governing body for the CMA certification. The registration process involves several fees:

• IMA Membership Fee: To take the CMA exam, you must be an IMA member. The membership fee varies based on your category:

 i.            Professional Membership: $295 annually

 ii.            Student Membership: $49 annually

 iii.            Academic Membership (for faculty): $135 annually

• CMA Entrance Fee: After becoming an IMA member, you need to pay a one-time CMA entrance fee. The fee is:

i.            $300 for professional members

ii.            $225 for student/academic members

CMA EXAM FEE

The CMA exam consists of two parts, and you must pay a fee for each part:

·    $495 per part for professional members

·    $370 per part for student/academic members

CMA EXEMPTION FEES

While there are no direct exemption fees, candidates may incur additional costs if they need to reschedule exams or retake failed parts. These charges vary depending on IMA policies and testing centre regulations.

Additional Costs

Beyond the mandatory fees, candidates should budget for:

• Study materials (books, online resources): Costs vary based on providers.
• Exam preparation courses: Offered by third-party vendors at varying prices.
• Travel and accommodation (if testing outside your city).

The CMA USA program fees can be summarised as below :

*IMA membership is required. Certified CMAs will need to pay a $30 annual renewal fee and will be required to report 30 hours of CPE on an annual basis.