How much does CMA certification cost?
How much does CMA certification cost?
$1,088 – $1,685 total cost (without exam prep)
$1,288 – $3,685 average total cost (with exam prep course)
CMA certification cost
CMA certification costs $1,088 to $1,685, depending on your membership type and whether you pass both parts of the exam on the first attempt. This total includes the CMA exam cost along with additional required fees. Preparation and review courses add $200 to $2,000 but often improve pass rates and help avoid costly retake fees.
In the following guide, we'll break down all the costs associated with how to get CMA certification as well as how to maintain it.
| Cost component | Student member | Academic member | Professional member |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual membership | $49 | $160 | $295 |
| Entrance fee | $225 | $225 | $300 |
| Exam fees (both parts) | $814 | $814 | $1,090 |
| Review course (optional) | $200 – $2,000 | $200 – $2,000 | $200 – $2,000 |
| Total cost (certification only) |
$1,088 | $1,199 | $1,685 |
| Average total investment (prep course + certification) |
$1,288 – $3,088 | $1,399 – $3,199 | $1,885 – $3,685 |
What is CMA certification?
The Certified Management Accountant or CMA certification is among the most respected credentials in the fields of management accounting and financial management. Awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), it demonstrates expertise and validates your mastery of financial planning, analysis, performance management, and strategic decision-making skills. Unlike traditional accounting certifications focused on compliance, the CMA emphasizes strategic thinking and leadership capabilities that drive business performance.
CMA certification requirements
CMA certification requires four main components:
An active IMA membership throughout the certification process and beyond
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or a qualifying finance or accounting certification
Passing both parts of the 2-part CMA exam within three years of paying your entrance fee
Two years of professional experience in financial management or management accounting (completed before or within seven years of passing the CMA exam)
Required CMA certification fees
Every CMA candidate must pay several mandatory fees throughout their certification journey:
IMA membership cost
The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) oversees the CMA certification program, making membership mandatory before you can register for exams. Your membership category determines all subsequent fees. Student memberships offer the most significant cost savings and remain valid as long as you maintain enrolled status at an accredited institution.
| Membership type | Annual fee | Target audience |
|---|---|---|
| Student | $49 | Currently enrolled students |
| Academic | $160 | Faculty and educators |
| Professional | $295 | Working professionals |
CMA entrance fee
After joining IMA, you must pay a one-time CMA program entrance fee that grants access to the certification program for 3 years. The entrance fee is $225 for students and academic members or $300 for professionals. This non-refundable fee includes:
A CMA support package
Final score report upon completion of exams
Review of educational and experience credentials
Listing of CMAs with active status, available on the IMA website for employers to confirm their credentials
CMA exam fees
The CMA exam consists of two parts that can be taken in any order. You must pay separately for each part. The table below shows the current CMA exam prices for students, academic associates, and professionals. Failed exam parts require paying the full exam fee again for each retake attempt.
| Membership type | Fee per exam part | Total cost |
|---|---|---|
| Student/Academics | $407 | $814 |
| Professional | $545 | $1,090 |
Additional expenses
Consider these potential extra costs when budgeting for your CMA certification:
Travel and accommodation expenses may apply if visiting your nearest Prometric testing center requires overnight stays.
Prometric Testing charges $50 if you cancel or reschedule within 3 to 30 days of the scheduled test date.
Requesting a transfer to the next testing window (instead of rescheduling for a date within the same testing window) costs $75 extra, the additional fee paid to ICMA.
Ongoing CMA maintenance cost
All CMAs must maintain IMA membership at $30 per year for renewal fees, plus complete 30 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) annually, including at least 2 hours in the field of ethics. Many CPE opportunities are available at no cost through IMA, though premium courses may cost extra.
CMA preparation costs
The CMA exam is not easy; the first-time pass rate averages 40% to 50% on both Parts 1 and Part 2. While not mandatory, most successful candidates invest in study materials and review courses to improve their pass rates and reduce retake expenses.
CMA review courses
Most professional review courses cost $1,000 to $2,000. These comprehensive courses provide structured learning paths and expert instruction. They often include video lectures, practice exams, and study guides.
Many reputable CMA review course providers offer money-back guarantees or free retake access, demonstrating confidence in their programs.
Self-study
Budget-conscious candidates may choose self-study options using textbooks, practice questions, and online resources. Self-study programs cost significantly less, with some starting at $199, but they require more self-discipline and organization. Some companies now offer subscription access to online review materials for $50 to $80 per month.
IMA offers some free review materials on their website, including practice quizzes and a CMA Exam Simulator.
What does the CMA exam consist of?
The CMA exam has two parts, each taken separately, and covers 12 competencies. Each part is 4 hours long and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and two 30-minute essays. The table below shows a breakdown of the competencies covered in each part of the exam.
| Competency | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics | |
| External Financial Reporting Decisions | 15% |
| Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting | 20% |
| Performance Management | 20% |
| Cost Management | 15% |
| Internal Controls | 15% |
| Technology and Analytics | 15% |
| Part 2: Strategic Financial Management | |
| Financial Statement Analysis | 20% |
| Corporate Finance | 20% |
| Business Decision Analysis | 25% |
| Enterprise Risk Management | 10% |
| Capital Investment Decisions | 10% |
| Professional Ethics | 15% |
The CMA exam is computer-based and available at Prometric Testing Centers globally.
Exam results are emailed and posted to your online profile about 6 weeks from the end of the month in which you tested.
CMA certification FAQs
How long does it take to get CMA certification?
Most candidates complete CMA certification within 6 to 18 months, depending on their study schedule and preparation approach. According to insights on the IMA website, candidates studying 20 hours per week could pass Part 1 in 9 weeks and Part 2 in 7 weeks. You have three years from paying your entrance fee to pass both exam parts.
How long does a CMA certification last?
CMA certification lasts for life once earned, but you must maintain it through continuing professional education and membership requirements. You must complete 30 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) annually and maintain active IMA membership.
What jobs can I get with a CMA certification?
CMA certification opens doors to senior-level finance and accounting positions including financial analyst, cost manager, budget analyst, financial controller, and chief financial officer (CFO) roles. Many Fortune 500 companies and multinational corporations prefer or require CMAs for strategic finance positions. A CMA certification demonstrates expertise in business decision-making and financial strategy.
Can I take the CMA exam without being an IMA member?
No, IMA membership is mandatory for CMA certification. You must be an active IMA member to register for exams, maintain your certification, and access program resources. Membership also provides valuable networking opportunities and continuing education resources that support your professional development.
Are there scholarships available for CMA certification?
Yes, the Institute of Management Accountants offers a CMA Scholarship Program that provides financial assistance to high-achieving students, covering exam registration fees, entrance fees, and access to review materials. Many employers also sponsor employee certifications as professional development investments.
Is the CMA certification worth the investment?
CMA certification is a worthwhile investment for many financial professionals. CMAs earn 21% more than non-certified professionals according to IMA's Global Salary Survey. This salary premium recovers certification costs within the first year and continues providing returns throughout your career. The credential also opens doors to senior finance and accounting positions that may be difficult to access without certification.
Choosing a CMA review course provider
Using quality study materials significantly impacts your exam success and helps avoid costly retakes. Follow these guidelines to help you select the best CMA tutor or review course provider for your needs and budget:
Look for providers that publish actual pass rate data rather than vague success claims.
Check Tutors.com and Google for positive student reviews and testimonials.
Choose providers with instructors who hold active CMA certifications and have substantial teaching or industry experience.
Ensure the provider offers updated content that reflects current exam specifications, including practice questions, simulations, and full-length mock exams.
Select providers offering multiple study options like live classes, recorded lectures, mobile apps, and adaptive learning technology.
Look for providers offering responsive customer service, instructor access for questions, and additional tutoring options when needed.
Check for employer partnerships and discounts to reduce your out-of-pocket costs while maintaining program quality.
While cost matters, focus on overall value including materials quality, support level, and success rates.
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.