ACCA vs US CMA – Detailed Differences, Similarities & What’s Best For You?

In today’s competitive job market, the demand for skilled financial professionals is skyrocketing. The world is looking for financial wizards who can decode complex business data and make sense of global financial trends. Here’s a fact to set the stage: according to a LinkedIn article, finance and accounting professionals with specialized certifications are in the top 10 most in-demand jobs for 2025,

This growing demand is what makes certifications like ACCA and US CMA so valuable. Both qualifications open doors to high-paying, respected jobs in finance and accounting worldwide. But which one aligns with your goals? Let’s break down ACCA and CMA so you can choose the path that best fits your aspirations.

Did you know? Studies predict a 25% growth in demand for certified finance professionals over the next decade, especially in fields like international finance, auditing, and management accounting.

So, let’s dive in and figure out which certification—ACCA or CMA—is the perfect fit for your career ambitions!

All about the ACCA program

One of the world’s oldest and largest organizations for accounting professionals, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants was set up in 1904. The mission was to create a global community of prominent accountants who would transform the industry and create a new benchmark for excellence.

Today, there are over 252,500 members in 180 countries. The ACCA commands a lot of respect in the industry and is coveted by many finance and commerce students as the next step in their careers.

Also Read – 6 Most Important Benefits of ACCA Course

The ACCA syllabus

The course is divided into three levels:

1. Applied Knowledge level

   • Business and Technology (F1)
   • Management Accounting (F2)
   • Financial Accounting (F3)

2. Applied Skills Level

   • Corporate and Business Law (F4)
   • Performance Management (F5)
   • Taxation (F6)
   • Financial Reporting (F7)
   • Audit and Assurance (F8)

3. Strategic Professional Level

   • Mandatory Subjects:
     • Strategic Business Leader (P1)
     • Strategic Business Reporting (P2)
   • Optional subjects (Choose any two):
     • Advanced Financial Management (P3)
     • Advanced Performance Management (P4)
     • Advanced Taxation (P5)
     • Advanced Audit and Assurance (P6)

Have Questions Regarding ACCA Course?

All about the US CMA program

The prestigious US CMA Certification was created by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) in 1972. Today, it is the benchmark in management accounting in over 150 countries.

A US CMA stamp on your resume gives you a lot of credibility and makes you a coveted hire during the recruitment process. The course lays a strong foundation in management accounting, strategic planning, decision-making, and performance analysis.

Students learn to monitor, analyze, and enhance a company’s financial health.

Also Read – CMA India vs CMA USA: Differences and 11 factors to help you decide

The US CMA syllabus

The course is divided into two parts:

Part 1

• External Financial Reporting Decisions
• Planning, Budgeting, and Forecasting
• Performance Management
• Cost Management
• Internal controls
• Technology and Analytics

Part 2

• Financial Statement Analysis
• Corporate Finance
• Decision Analysis
• Risk Management
• Investment Decisions
• Professional Ethics

Have Questions About US CMA Course?

Similarities and differences between ACCA vs US CMA

Also Read – How to get ACCA jobs in the Big 4?

Challenges and Tips Section: Navigating the Tough Spots in ACCA and CMA

Embarking on a journey with ACCA or CMA isn’t always a walk in the park. Each certification has its challenges, and it’s essential to know what to expect and how to tackle them. Here’s a quick look at the common hurdles and some solid tips to help you stay on top.

ACCA Challenges

• Balancing 13 Exams Over Multiple Year

With 13 exams across three levels, ACCA can feel like a marathon. The journey requires consistent dedication over a few years, especially if you’re juggling work alongside studies.

Tip: Set short-term goals. Break down your study material and aim to complete specific sections weekly. Use online resources or attend revision classes that focus on exam patterns and important topics.

• Work-Study Balance

Many ACCA students are already working, so balancing a full-time job with studies can be tricky.

Tip: Create a realistic study plan, dedicating 2-3 hours daily. Leverage weekends for deeper study sessions and take mock tests to gauge your preparation.

• Meeting Work Experience Requirements

ACCA requires 36 months of relevant supervised work experience.

Tip: Look for internships or entry-level roles in finance early. Organizations offering ACCA training may help you gain experience while studying.

US CMA Challenges

• Mastering Management Accounting Quickly

US CMA’s shorter duration with only two exams means you need to master concepts in a relatively short time.

Tip: Prioritize core topics like financial planning and analysis, budgeting, and internal controls. Use past papers, case studies, and online practice questions to deepen your understanding.

• Limited Exam Flexibility

With only two parts to clear, each exam counts, and there’s little room for error.

Tip: Try dedicating at least 150 hours per part, focusing on practice problems and test simulations. Regularly assess your progress through mock exams.

• Achieving Practical Experience

US CMA requires two years of experience in management accounting.

Tip: Seek out roles that involve budgeting, strategic planning, or performance analysis. Many MNCs offer CMA training that can fulfill the experience requirement as well.

Also Read – 18 Accounting & Finance Courses Every Commerce Student Must Know

Core Competencies: Key Skills for Each Certification

To help you decide where your strengths align, here’s a breakdown of the core competencies needed for ACCA and CMA. This table provides a snapshot of each certification’s focus areas.

Pro Insight: ACCA is ideal if you’re keen on comprehensive financial reporting, auditing, and international standards, while CMA suits those inclined towards strategy, management accounting, and decision-making within corporate finance.

Return on Investment (ROI) of ACCA vs. CMA

Investing in a professional certification is like buying a ticket to a more lucrative career, but which one pays off faster? Here’s a look at the costs, potential earnings, and how quickly you can expect returns.

Course Costs

• ACCA
  • Tuition: ₹3-4 lakhs on average, including exam fees, study material, and coaching.
  • Additional Costs: Study resources, mock exams, and potentially retake fees.
• US CMA
  • Tuition: ₹1-2 lakhs, covering exam fees and study material.
  • Additional Costs: Registration and IMA membership fees, and training materials.

Salary Expectations

• ACCA Salary Range in India
  • Entry-level: ₹4-6 lakhs per annum.
  • Senior roles: ₹10-20 lakhs per annum.
  • ROI: With high demand in India and abroad, ACCA can “pay for itself” within 2-3 years post-certification.
• US CMA Salary Range in India
  • Entry-level: ₹5-7 lakhs per annum.
  • Senior roles: ₹12-25 lakhs per annum.
  • ROI: US CMA’s shorter duration means it can start paying back within a year, especially in management roles with MNCs.

Time to Payback

• ACCA: Given the extensive study period (2-4 years) and the comprehensive exam structure, ACCA has a longer payback period. However, it’s highly valued in both Indian and international markets, making it a solid long-term investment.
• US CMA: Faster to complete with just two exams, and with robust salary potential, CMA offers a quicker payback. The certification is especially valuable in MNCs and corporate finance roles.

Also Read – 3 Types of Accounting – Understand each one in detail

Job Opportunities in India vs. Abroad: Where Do ACCA and US CMA Take You?

When you’re investing time and money in a certification, you probably want to know if it can take you places—literally! Both ACCA and CMA open up a world of possibilities, but where these opportunities are most abundant differs. Here’s a breakdown of job markets in India and globally for ACCA and CMA professionals to help you decide which route best aligns with your career goals.

Job Opportunities in India

India has seen a growing demand for both ACCA and CMA professionals, thanks to an increase in global companies setting up shop here and the steady rise of Indian corporations adopting international accounting standards. Here’s where each certification finds its niche in India:

• ACCA in India

  • High Demand Industries: ACCA professionals are especially valued in sectors that operate under global finance standards, like banking, consulting, and MNCs with IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) compliance requirements.
  • Top Cities: Major metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore lead the way in hiring ACCA-certified individuals. These cities are home to financial hubs, global firms, and Big Four consulting offices, making them ideal places to start.
  • Common Job Roles: Financial Analyst, Compliance Officer, Internal Auditor, and Financial Reporting Specialist are some typical roles for ACCAs in India.
  • Salary Range: Entry-level salaries for ACCAs typically start from ₹4-6 lakhs annually, with senior roles reaching ₹20 lakhs or more depending on experience.

• CMA in India

  • High Demand Industries: CMAs are well-suited to sectors where strategic financial management and cost accounting are crucial, such as manufacturing, FMCG, and multinational corporations. The focus is often on internal decision-making and cost optimization.
  • Top Cities: Chennai, Pune, and Hyderabad have a strong demand for CMAs due to the manufacturing and technology industries prevalent in these cities. MNCs in corporate finance also seek CMAs in cities like Mumbai and Gurgaon.
  • Common Job Roles: Cost Accountant, Financial Controller, Budget Analyst, and Managerial Accountant are popular choices for CMA professionals in India.
  • Salary Range: For CMAs, starting salaries usually range from ₹5-7 lakhs annually, with senior roles fetching upwards of ₹15-25 lakhs depending on role and experience.

Job Opportunities Abroad

The ACCA and CMA credentials open doors globally, but each has its strengths depending on the region. If you’re considering working abroad, here’s what to expect:

• ACCA Abroad

  • Global Reach: With recognition in over 180 countries, ACCA is particularly advantageous for those aiming to work in financial hubs like London, Dubai, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
  • High Demand Markets: The ACCA’s focus on international financial reporting standards and audit expertise aligns well with roles in accounting firms, multinational banks, investment firms, and auditing agencies. The Big Four (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG) are often on the lookout for ACCA-certified professionals, especially in Europe and the Middle East.
  • Popular Job Roles: Finance Manager, Auditor, Tax Consultant, and Risk Manager. In regions like the UK, Middle East, and parts of Asia, ACCA certifications are highly valued for regulatory and compliance roles.
  • Salary Range: In financial centers like London, ACCA professionals can earn an average starting salary of around £30,000-£40,000, while senior roles in Dubai or Singapore can reach USD $80,000-120,000 annually.

• CMA Abroad

  • Global Reach: Recognized in over 150 countries, the US CMA is highly regarded in North America, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Financially dynamic cities like New York, Toronto, and Dubai have substantial demand for CMA-qualified professionals.
  • High Demand Markets: With a focus on management accounting, strategic finance, and decision-making, CMAs find ample opportunities in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and retail. Companies like Amazon, Johnson & Johnson, and Procter & Gamble are known to value CMAs for roles in cost control and financial strategy.
  • Popular Job Roles: Financial Controller, Corporate Finance Manager, Cost Analyst, and CFO in the making! With CMA’s management focus, leadership roles in corporate finance and strategic decision-making are common.
  • Salary Range: In the US, entry-level CMAs typically earn between USD $60,000-$70,000 annually, while experienced CMAs can expect salaries upwards of USD $100,000. In the Middle East, senior CMAs in management roles can earn over USD $80,000 per year.

Also Read – Top 5 Foreign Accounting Courses That Can Make You Rich and Respectable!

ACCA vs US CMA – Who Should Choose What?

Choosing the right certification can be a bit like picking the perfect Netflix show—both options are tempting, but the best choice depends on what you want out of it. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide based on your career goals and interests:

Choose ACCA if:

• You’re aiming for a career in international finance: ACCA is recognized in over 180 countries, making it ideal for those wanting to work with multinational firms or in global markets.
• Auditing and taxation excite you: ACCA’s curriculum includes in-depth modules on auditing, financial reporting, and taxation, making it a favorite for roles in auditing and public accounting.
• You prefer flexibility in exam schedules: ACCA allows you to take exams one by one, at your own pace.
• You want job security in India or abroad: ACCA’s focus on IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) makes it attractive to Indian companies adopting global standards and to employers worldwide.

Choose US CMA if:

• You’re interested in management accounting and strategic finance: US CMA is the go-to for those looking to specialize in management accounting, financial planning, and strategic decision-making.
• You want to work in corporate finance for a multinational corporation: US CMAs are in high demand for senior management roles, especially in MNCs where strategic planning and internal finance are critical.
• A faster certification process appeals to you: US CMA can be completed in a year, with just two exams to pass.
• You’re aiming for roles with a focus on internal business strategy and control: US CMA’s emphasis on budgeting, cost management, and analysis makes it perfect for internal finance functions.

How Proschool Supports ACCA and US CMA Students?

Choosing the right certification is just the beginning of your journey—finding the right support to get you there is equally important. That’s where Proschool steps in! Known as one of India’s leading coaching institutions for finance and accounting, Proschool ensures that ACCA and US CMA students not only get certified but do so with confidence, thorough preparation, and industry readiness.

Let’s look at how Proschool brings a winning edge to both ACCA and CMA students:

Proschool’s Support for US CMA Students

For those aiming to conquer the US CMA, Proschool offers an exceptional foundation of resources, mentorship, and personalized guidance:

1. Industry-Experienced Faculty

Proschool’s faculty includes experienced professionals who simplify the CMA curriculum and clarify complex concepts. They go beyond traditional lectures, incorporating real-world examples to enhance learning, making challenging concepts easier to grasp.

2. Comprehensive Study Resources

Over 4,000 MCQs and 90+ Essay Questions: Proschool’s vast question bank ensures that students are well-prepared for any question that might come their way.

IMA-Approved Study Material: The course material is aligned with IMA standards, providing the latest in management accounting principles and practices.

3. Flexible Learning Options

Live Classroom and Online Sessions: Whether you prefer in-person classes or the convenience of online learning, Proschool has options for both.

Free Foundation Course: For students from a non-finance background, Proschool offers a free foundation course, laying the groundwork in finance basics before diving into the CMA syllabus.

4. Cost Benefits

Registration Fee Waiver: Students enrolling in Proschool’s CMA course get their CMA registration fees waived, making it an affordable choice for finance aspirants.

5. Personalized Study Plans and Revision Classes

Proschool provides custom study plans, adapting to your personal pace and learning style. Their dedicated revision sessions ensure you’re exam-ready and confident.

6. Placement Program

With Proschool’s placement program, CMA graduates have access to job openings in India’s leading finance companies, making it easier to start your career in management accounting.

Proschool’s Support for ACCA Students

For those leaning toward a globally recognized ACCA certification, Proschool brings a robust set of resources and support to guide you through the ACCA’s challenging syllabus:

1. Track Record of Success

As a gold-approved learning partner of ACCA, Proschool has trained over 12,000 students in accounting and finance, and the high pass rate of its students reflects the quality of education.

2. Exam Pass Commitment

Unlimited Classroom and Doubt-Solving Sessions: If a student doesn’t pass an ACCA exam, Proschool offers continued support with unlimited classes and one-on-one doubt-solving sessions until they do.

3. Cost Savings

Registration Fee Savings and Training Cost Discounts: Students can save on both registration fees and training costs, making Proschool an affordable route for ACCA certification.

4. Extensive Practice Resources

600+ Practice Questions per ACCA Subject: With this extensive pool of questions, students can sharpen their problem-solving skills and prepare for various question formats.

Dedicated Revision Classes: Regularly scheduled revision sessions ensure students are ready to tackle each exam confidently.

5. Monthly Batch Start

ACCA students can join new batches every month, giving them flexibility in starting their preparation.

6. Free Financial Modelling Course

As an added bonus, Proschool offers a Financial Modelling course worth ₹40,000, enabling ACCA students to learn this valuable skill at no extra cost.

7. Placement Support with Job Assurance

Proschool’s job placement program provides students with real-world career assistance. For entry-level roles, Proschool guarantees a minimum of three job shortlists within six months of course completion, helping students jumpstart their careers.

Proschool understands that no two students are the same. We’ve built flexible, customized learning plans that adapt to each student’s strengths, challenges, and goals. Our interactive teaching style, combined with the exam-focused approach, means you’ll be better prepared—not just for the exams but for your career.

Conclusion

So, you’ve made it this far! By now, you’re well-informed about the strengths and unique aspects of both ACCA and CMA. Let’s quickly sum up the key points to help you finalize your decision based on what suits your career goals best.

If you’re aiming for an international career with a focus on financial reporting, audit, and global accounting practices, ACCA could be your calling. With its global recognition in 180+ countries, ACCA opens doors to diverse roles, including tax consultant, financial accountant, and even positions in the Big 4. It’s a longer journey with 13 exams, but with Proschool’s support and a structured approach, you can tackle each stage confidently.

However, if management accounting, strategic financial planning, and a streamlined certification process are what appeal to you, CMA might be your ideal match. With just two main exams and a focus on management accounting, the US CMA offers a path that’s more specialized and designed for high-level financial decision-making roles in multinational corporations. Plus, you’ll be joining a prestigious network through the IMA, giving you access to resources, industry insights, and potential job opportunities worldwide.

FAQs

Can an ACCA holder do the US CMA course?

Yes. The ACCA official website states that ACCA holders can do the US CMA course even if they don’t have degrees. This is a special provision by the IMA board.

How much does a US CMA professional earn in India?

Annual salaries start at Rs 5 lakhs and go as high as 25 lakhs. US CMA professionals in leadership roles earn even more.

Do the Big 4 firms hire CMA holders?

Yes, the Big 4 firms prefer hiring CMA-qualified professionals due to their expertise and skills needed for high-pressure environments.

US CMA vs ACCA – which is better for me?

Both qualifications boost your career prospects. If you prefer management accounting and strategic planning, choose CMA. If you’re interested in taxation, auditing, or financial accounting, the ACCA program is better.

Is the US CMA a tougher course than the CA?

No. While both are challenging, the CA is considered tougher due to the exam structure and syllabus. The CMA has two exams, while the CA has 16.

What is the cost of ACCA after CMA?

Costs vary between Rs 1.14 lakhs and Rs 3.20 lakhs, depending on waivers and exemptions.