Can You Do US CMA After the 12th? Duration, Exams, Cost, Benefits & more

An accounting career has evolved progressively over the years. It is driven by changes in business practices, tech advancements and the rising significance of financial reporting. Management accountants play influential roles within the company. They are instrumental in making strategic business decisions impacted by financial insights. Their analysis and management of financial information can lead to enhanced profitability. The complexities of the job profile can be intimidating to students, especially those in their 12th year. The US CMA course is an ideal program that builds expertise and develops skills needed in this industry. Yes, you can pursue CMA USA after the 12th. It is an extremely popular option for undergraduates. Over 40,000 students are seeking certification in India each year. This figure keeps rising to meet the intense demand for CMA professionals in companies like EY, Deloitte, Accenture, PwC and KPMG. MNCs and global financial firms love to recruit CMA US candidates. The professionals are well-versed in international accounting standards, understand the global business markets and can help make strategic decisions. No wonder they are such a coveted hire. Also, did you know that according to the 2023 IMA global salary survey, CMA professionals earn 20 per cent more than their peers who lack similar qualifications?

So, if you are a college student considering this path, below is all the information on joining the certified management accountant course after the 12th grade.

Also Read- Is US CMA Worth It in India? Read The Benefits and Disadvantages

CMA course details after 12th year

1. Eligibility factors for the US CMA After the 12th

It is common news that you need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university to get your US CMA certification. However, you can study to be a certified management accountant after the 12th year. You don’t need a degree to take the exams. You can apply for the IMA membership, enrol in the US CMA course and take the exams before your final year of college. However, you won’t qualify as a US CMA professional just yet. You must submit proof of your degree within seven years of taking the exam to receive the certification.

2. Work requirements

You also need practical work experience to be eligible for your CMA certification. The IMA board mandates all students to achieve two years of professional work in management accounting or financial management. You can work in cost accounting, Financial planning and analysis, budgeting, risk management or internal auditing.

If you are enrolling for the CMA USA after the 12th, it may seem tough to achieve this requirement when attending college. The IMA board has made an allowance for this. You have up to seven years after taking the CMA exams to submit proof of your degree. As a 12th-pass student, you will need three years to complete your degree and another two years to accomplish the work experience so you have time to meet these requirements.

3. Course fees

One of the biggest benefits of enrolling in the CMA USA after the 12th is that full-time students pay less for the US CMA course than working professionals or graduates.

Here below is the complete breakdown of the IMA membership, CMA entrance and exam fees

IMA MEMBERSHIP	Professional membership: $295 One-year student membership: $49 Two-year student membership: $98
CMA ENTRANCE FEE	Professionals: $300 Students: $225
EXAM FEES	Professionals: $495 Students: $370 (for one exam)

 

It costs around Rs 15,000 to Rs 50,000 for IMA-approved study material from providers like Becker or Hock. If you opt for a coaching class, you will pay a lump sum for coaching and study material. The exact amount will depend on which institution you join and the type of package, around Rs 35,000 to Rs 1 lakh. This investment improves your chances of clearing the exams.

When juggling the US CMA course with your full-time college, it makes sense to rely on reputed coaching centres. They have experienced instructors, customised study plans, doubt-clearing sessions and other resources to help you succeed.

4. US CMA exam structure

There is a reason why so many full-time students enrol for the US CMA after the 12th. It is manageable to work towards your degree and the CMA exams simultaneously. The US CMA course can be completed within six months to a year. There are two parts to the syllabus:

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

You have to sit for two exams – one for each part. It doesn’t matter which one you take first. Each exam will contain multiple-choice questions and essay questions. Finish the MCQs first, and then you will be allowed to see the essay question. The tests are held thrice yearly in January/February, May/June and September/October.

Your CMA enrolment is valid for three years. You must take the tests during that time or else pay the fees again.

Timeline for rescheduling the exams:

1. If you want to reschedule the test within 30 days, you can do so without paying a fee.
2. If you book a new date after a month, you’ll be charged $50.
3. You are not allowed to reschedule the exam five days before the date. You will have to forfeit the exam.

5. Timeline for US CMA course

Your bachelor’s degree is most likely a three-year program. If you are pursuing the US CMA after the 12th, it makes sense to try to finish the US CMA course along with your graduation.

It takes full-time students three to six months to study for each Part of the syllabus. Exam windows are open thrice a year, so you should plan accordingly. You must also register early for the exams to get your chosen slot at your desired Prometric Centre.

Experts recommend signing up for the exams 6 to 8 weeks before the desired date. By then, you should be halfway through studying for one part.

If you learn with a reputed coaching class, you can complete the course within 6 to 9 months. After clearing the exams, you have to finish your professional work experience.

You’ll need at least two years’ worth to qualify for the certification. You can opt for an internship or part-time job in accounting during your final two years of college.

You can also complete your degree and then apply for a trainee position. If you choose the former, you can receive your CMA certification with your bachelor’s degree. Otherwise, you can get it two years after you graduate.

Also Read- Becoming a US CMA: The Complete Process & Preparation!

Benefits of studying CMA USA after 12th

1. You get an early start to your career

When you enrol in CMA USA after the 12th, you can complete the exams before you graduate. This means you have a double qualification while your peers only have one. You are also ready to start working, and your resume can attract recruiters from large corporations, MNCs and international business firms. If you complete your work experience in advance, you can become a US CMA-certified professional and a graduate together.

2. You are a graduate with specialised knowledge

There is a huge advantage to doing the US CMA after the 12th. The US CMA syllabus includes financial analysis, budgeting, strategic planning and decision-making. You develop a strong expertise in financial management and management accounting. Despite being a fresh graduate, you are a strong contender for junior positions in job profiles such as cost accountant, budget analyst, finance manager and internal auditor.

3. Global job opportunities

The CMA USA program is recognised worldwide in over 150 countries. Your qualifications can help you apply for jobs in the US, Middle East and Southeast Asia. You also have the knowledge and skills to work in various industries such as technology, finance, retail and manufacturing.

4. Increased creditability and higher earning potential

A commerce graduate can earn Rs 3 lakhs to Rs 5 lakhs annually in management accounting. The same Bcom candidate can make Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 8 lakhs yearly with a US CMA certification. Your expertise in technical knowledge, understanding of global accounting standards and ability to make strategic business decisions is a great asset for top international companies. It also leads to leadership positions and great opportunities for career growth.

Also Read- Best Institutes for US CMA in India – Top Coaching Centers and Fees Breakdown

Why you should learn US CMA after 12th with IMS Proschool

Aspiring management accountants can benefit from studying the US CMA after 12th with Proschool. As one of India’s top coaching institutions, Proschool offers a comprehensive, structured curriculum taught by experienced industry experts. Students receive professional guidance, personalised coaching, and high-quality study materials to ace their exams. It is the perfect set-up to help you fast-track your career and give you a competitive edge.

Advantages of learning with Proschool:

1. Students can learn online or take offline classes.
2. Proschool has over 15 coaching centres across India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Pune.
3. Resources such as learning videos, full-length mock tests, IMA-approved study material, and a bank of over 4000 MCQs and 90 essay questions are available.
4. Failed students can retake the module for free a second time.
5. Students receive recruitment training through mock interview sessions, resume writing help and placement support.

Conclusion

If you want to be in management accounting and work with some of the biggest businesses in the world, it is a terrific idea to take the CMA USA after the 12th. You can complete the exams before you graduate and enter the corporate world as an accomplished professional.

FAQs

Do I have to be a graduate to take the US CMA exams?

No, you can enrol for the CMA USA after the 12th. Once you clear your exams, you have up to seven years to submit your degree as proof. Following this, the IMA will grant you your certification.

What is the total cost of the US CMA course?

The exact amount depends on factors such as type of membership, study material provider and coaching classes. However, most students pay between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 2 lakh for the entire CMA course, including coaching costs. You can get significant student discounts if you enrol in the CMA USA after the 12th.

What job opportunities can I expect after doing the program?

US CMA professionals can work as cost accountants, management accountants, risk managers, internal auditors, financial analysts, budget analysts, and FA&P managers.

Are there scholarships or financial aid options for US CMA?

Yes, there are a few scholarships and financial aid options for students. You can check the IMA website for details to know if you qualify.

What industries hire CMA-certified professionals in India?

You can work in almost any industry, including manufacturing, finance, IT, retail, e-commerce, healthcare and education.

How does US CMA compare to traditional accounting degrees?

The US CMA was designed with a global perspective. It is meant for management accountants who understand the financial challenges faced by international companies and businesses. Students also learn valuable skills such as decision-making, financial analysis and professional ethics. The US CMA course is focused on management and strategic roles in accounting, whereas traditional accounting degrees offer a broad foundation in accounting and finance.