How to Register for CMA USA: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA USA) certification is one of the most respected global credentials in accounting and finance. This authorisation, which is provided by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), provides access to lucrative employment and international prospects. If you’re planning to pursue CMA USA, understanding the registration process is the first step to success.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the complete process of how to register for CMA USA—from eligibility to exam booking.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before registration, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for CMA USA:

• A bachelor’s degree from an approved university is required for education; this can be obtained after passing the test.
  
• Job Experience: Two years of relevant job experience in financial management or management accounting, which may also be finished within seven years of graduation.
  
• Membership: A member of the Institute of Management Accountants, or IMA, is required.

Note: You can appear for the CMA exams even if you are still completing your degree or gaining experience. You can check the CMA USA course details in India by referring to LedgerGate’s website.

Step 2: Join the IMA

To get started, you need to become a member of IMA. Here’s how:

How to Join:

1. Visit the IMA website.
   
2. Choose the appropriate membership type:
   
   • Professional – For working professionals.
     
   • Student – For current students.
     
   • Academic – For educators.
     
3. Fill out the membership application.
   
4. Pay the annual membership fee:
   
   • Student: Approx. $49
     
   • Professional: Approx. $295
     

Once your IMA membership is approved, you can move forward with exam registration.

Step 3: Enroll in the CMA Program

You have to sign up expressly for the CMA certification program after joining IMA.

To enroll:

1. Log in to your IMA account.
   
2. Select “Enroll in the CMA Program.”
   
3. Pay the CMA entrance fee:
   
   • Student: Around $210
     
   • Professional: Around $300

This fee is non-refundable and must be paid before registering for exams.

Step 4: Choose a CMA Review Course

Although optional, enrolling in a structured CMA USA coaching program greatly improves your chances of passing. Institutes like LedgerGate Academy offer CMA USA training with:

• Live classes
  
• Practice questions
  
• Mock exams
  
• 1-on-1 mentoring

Make sure your review course matches the 2025 CMA syllabus updates and provides practical resources.

Step 5: Register for the CMA Exam (Part 1 or 2)

There are two exam parts in CMA:

• Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
  
• Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

You can take them in any order.

To register for an exam:

1. Log in to your IMA account.
   
2. Choose “Register for Exam.”
   
3. Select your desired exam part and testing window:
   
   • Jan–Feb
     
   • May–June
     
   • Sept–Oct
     
4. Pay the exam fee:
   
   • Student: ~$345 per part
     
   • Professional: ~$495 per part

Step 6: Schedule Your Exam with Prometric

After registering with IMA, schedule your exam date via Prometric:

Here’s how:

1. Visit https://www.prometric.com/exams/icma.
   
2. Select your country and preferred test center.
   
3. Choose a date and time that fits your schedule.
   
4. Confirm and print your exam appointment confirmation.

As of 2025, you have to show up in person at the testing location to take the exam.

Step 7: Prepare for the Exam

Give yourself at least 3–6 months of study time for each part. Focus on:

• Conceptual clarity
  
• Practicing multiple-choice and essay questions
  
• Simulated exams under timed conditions

Make use of resources from your coaching provider or self-study materials like Wiley, Gleim, or Hock.

Step 8: Appear for the CMA Exam

On the exam day:

• Arrive at the Prometric center at least 30 minutes early.
  
• Carry a valid government-issued ID.
  
• Follow all guidelines provided in your confirmation email.

Each CMA part is 4 hours:

• 100 Multiple Choice Questions (3 hours)
  
• 2 Essay Questions (1 hour)

Step 9: Track Your Results and Complete the Requirements

• Exam results are typically released 6–8 weeks after your test date.
  
• Once you pass both parts, submit proof of your degree and work experience on the IMA portal.
  
• You will then receive your CMA certification.

Final Thoughts

Registering for CMA USA may seem complex, but it’s a structured and well-supported process. By following each step carefully, joining IMA, enrolling in the program, choosing the right coaching provider like LedgerGate, and preparing consistently, you set yourself up for international career success.

Whether you’re in India, Qatar, or anywhere else, the CMA USA credential is your passport to global finance leadership. Don’t wait- start your CMA USA journey today.