Considering obtaining US CMA after Indian CMA? This post outlines the major differences in eligibility criteria, course structure, fees, and international recognition for your help in determining whether it’s worth investing.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is among the most prestigious titles in management accounting. Several professionals who clear CMA India think of something beyond advancing their careers with US CMA after Indian CMA. But is it worth it? We put both certifications in comparison with each other in detail—issue-wise syllabus and exam structure, fees, career prospectus, and more—so that you can make an educated choice.
What is CMA India?
What is Indian CMA? The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI) bestows CMA India as a professional qualification. It is itself established through an act of Parliament as a statutory body. The focus of CMA India is on Indian context-specific cost accounting, financial management, auditing, taxation, and performance evaluation on a strategic note.
- Duration: Typically 3 levels (Foundation, Intermediate, Final)
- Recognition: Valid primarily in India
- Regulatory Body: ICMAI
This qualification suits candidates for employment in Indian industries, PSU organisations, and domestic finance positions.
What is US CMA?
US CMA is a worldwide accepted credential issued by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA. The credential emphasises high-level financial strategy, analysis, and decision-making skills needed in global corporations and international markets.
- Duration: 2 exam parts
- Recognition: Global, especially in the US, Middle East, Canada, and Europe
- Regulatory body: IMA (USA)
So if it’s “What is US CMA?” It is an international career development strategic certification in finance and accounting.
Curious About US CMA After Indian CMA?
Eligibility Criteria for US CMA after Indian CMA
In order to pursue US CMA after Indian CMA, candidates need to fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university (CMA India satisfies this)
- Be an active member of IMA
- Have two years of relevant work experience (can be completed before or after the exams)
While there is no direct US CMA exemption after Indian CMA, the CMA India background does help in providing a strong conceptual base for the preparation for US CMA.
Syllabus and Course Structure Comparison
CMA India syllabus
- Financial Accounting
- Cost and Management Accounting
- Direct and Indirect Taxation
- Laws and Ethics
- Financial Management
- Strategic Cost Management
- Operations Management
US CMA syllabus
Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
- External Financial Reporting
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Cost Management
- Internal Controls
- Performance Management
- Technology & Analytics
Part 2: Strategic Financial Management
- Financial Statement Analysis
- Corporate Finance
- Decision Analysis
- Risk Management
- Investment Decisions
- Professional Ethics
Key similarities and differences
- Similarity: Both encompass cost accounting, financial planning, and decision-making.
- Difference: CMA India has taxation and Indian laws as part of it; US CMA is international with analytics and corporate finance as topics.
- Structure: CMA India has 3 levels, while US CMA has 2 exam components, which makes it faster to finish.
Exam Structure: CMA India vs US CMA
| Feature | CMA India | US CMA |
| Exam Levels | Foundation, Intermediate, Final | Part 1 and Part 2 |
| Total Papers | 20+ papers | 2 papers |
| Exam Mode | Descriptive & Objective | Computer-Based (Objective + Essay) |
| Duration | 3-4 years | 6–12 months |
| Passing Score | 40% per paper, 50% aggregate | 360/500 per part |
The CMA exam in the US is more streamlined and precise and can be done in less time compared to CMA India.
Certification Costs: India vs USA
Registration, exam, and membership fees comparison
| Fee Type | CMA India | US CMA |
| Registration Fee | ₹4,000–₹6,000 | $15 (IMA membership), $250 (Entrance) |
| Exam Fee | ₹2,500–₹3,000 per paper | $415 per part (student rate) |
| Membership Fee | ₹1,500 (ICMAI) | $135 (Annual, IMA) |
| Total Estimated Cost | ₹60,000–₹80,000 | $1,200–$2,000 (₹1–1.6 lakhs) |
So, if you are comparing US CMA fees to CMA India, it’s higher but with global returns on investment.
Global Recognition and Career Scope
US CMA is accepted in more than 100 countries across the world, including the US, UAE, Canada, and the UK. The world’s best MNCs, like the Big Four, Amazon, Accenture, and Microsoft, recruit US CMAs in positions such as
- Financial Analyst
- Cost Controller
- FP&A Manager
- Risk Analyst
- Management Accountant
CMA India is well known in India and is in demand for government, PSU, and compliance positions. If your aspiration is career advancement and global mobility, US CMA following Indian CMA positions you at an international advantage.
Salary Expectations and Job Positions
Average salaries after completing US CMA after Indian CMA:
| Role | Salary in India | Salary Abroad |
| Financial Analyst | ₹6–10 LPA | $60,000–$80,000 |
| Cost Accountant | ₹5–8 LPA | $55,000–$75,000 |
| FP&A Analyst | ₹8–12 LPA | $70,000–$100,000 |
CMA India + US CMA professionals usually command much higher pay and have leadership positions in finance functions.
Difficulty Level and Pass Rates
| Exam | Pass Rate | Difficulty |
| CMA India | ~10-20% (per group) | High (multi-subject, long duration) |
| US CMA | ~45-50% (per part) | Moderate (focused content, shorter duration) |
US CMA after Indian CMA is relatively easier as you have the accounting background and fewer examination papers.
Is Doing US CMA After Indian CMA Worth It?
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Global job opportunities
- Higher earning potential
- Faster course completion
- Recognition in MNCs and overseas markets
Cons:
- Higher fees
- No direct exemptions
- Requires IMA membership and international exposure
Who should consider it
You should go for US CMA after Indian CMA if:
- You wish to work for international corporations.
- You are looking to settle in the Middle East, the US, or Canada.
- You would like to add an internationally recognised credential to your career profile.
Planning to Pursue an US CMA Accounting Career?
To Book Your Free Counselling Session
Conclusion
Pursuing US CMA after Indian CMA can really enhance your global employability and salary as well as your career advancement. Although US CMA certification does not grant exemption for Indian CMA, the basic knowledge of CMA India will stand in your favor. If your target is to increase your horizons beyond your country’s borders, then this extra credential is worth investing in.
FAQs on US CMA After Indian CMA
Is Indian CMA valid in the USA?
CMA India is not recognised directly in the US. But it’s helpful as it can be utilised as foundational knowledge and can also assist in qualifying through the US CMA after the Indian CMA pathway.
Who earns more, US CMA or Indian CMA?
US CMAs receive higher salaries because of international career options and better salary packages in international markets and MNCs.
Is CMA in India the same as CMA in USA?
No. Although both are management accounting certifications, the two are different in syllabus, recognition, and scope. CMA India has more emphasis on domestic laws and taxation, whereas US CMA has an international orientation.
Which country is best for the US CMA?
The USA, UAE, and other Middle Eastern nations present significant opportunities for US CMAs with better compensation and international exposure.
