CMA Review Courses & Self-Study Programs
You can prepare for the CMA exam in many ways: in a live classroom, in a virtual classroom, or on your own. You can select the method and materials that best match the way you like to study.
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Exam Support Package
New candidates joining the program receive access to the CMA Exam Support package. The package includes retired exam questions and a glossary of terms.
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Study Tips
You should plan for about 150-170 hours of studying per part; 300 hours of studying in total. You can explore study material options.
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Useful Study Materials
CMA Candidate Handbook
It's the go-to resource for all prospective CMA candidates. It provides you with information on the requirements for certification, registration and scheduling procedures, a list of financial ratios tested on the exam, and an explanation of the examination process.
Content Specifications Outline
We've outlined the practice areas candidates need to master to pass the CMA Exam.
Learning Outcome Statements
Consider this your syllabus. It will provide you with a line-by-line description of each section's specifics so you can easily keep track of what you still need to master.
Things you should know before you take the exam:
- bulletTake Part 1 and Part 2 in any order
- bulletFor exam details and policies, please see
The CMA Handbook. - bulletTesting windows are offered in January/February, May/June, and September/October
- bulletEach exam registration is valid for only one exam window
- bulletSecure facilities with computerized exams and biometric scanners (fingers) protect the validity of the exam
- bulletStudents may take the exam before graduating
The Final Step to Becoming Certified
Once you've passed your exams, there are just a few simple steps necessary to obtain your CMA certification:
- 1Download the CMA Experience Requirement Verification Form. This must be completed and returned to IMA.
- 2If you haven't already done so, you must provide proof of your educational qualification. See page 4 in our CMA Handbook.
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Upon verification of your education and experience documents, you will receive your CMA certificate number. Once this is issued, you may begin using the CMA designation and promote it.
What Happens Next
- bulletYour CMA certificate will follow in a few weeks.
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- bulletYou should begin making plans to fulfill your annual CPE obligation.