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

Throughout history, the field of accountancy has always been a reliable, stable and lucrative industry. Today, as the corporate world expands exponentially and new businesses emerge rapidly, management accountancy has never been more relevant.

What do management accountants do? They are professionals trained in multiple accounting services to help organisations make strategic decisions and optimise their operations.

It is a highly sought-after profession for most commerce or finance students—however, the quality of your education matters. You need a stellar academic background to be a management accountant on par with the best in the world. One of those certifications is the US CMA credential. The professionals who do this course are globally recognised for their expertise and exceptional skills.

The US CMA qualification is different from the CMA India course. While both offer management accountancy, there are differences to consider before you decide which one is suited for you. So keep reading to learn more about CMA India vs CMA USA.

About the US CMA certification

The US CMA stands for the Certified Management Account. Established by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), the CMA is globally celebrated for creating a high calibre of professionals. The course helps you become an expert in strategic management, business decision making and management accounting.

The course is top-rated worldwide. As of today, there are currently over 100,000 US CMAs in more than 150 countries. As a US CMA professional, you can work for some of the top banks, financial institutions and organisations in the world.

The US CMA Syllabus

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance and Analytics

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

Want To Enroll In US CMA Classes? 

About the CMA India certification

In India, CMA stands for the Cost and Management Accounting course. This program was set up by the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India (ICWAI). The CMA India course offers in-depth knowledge about financial planning, professional ethics, cost and management accounting. The CMA syllabus offers three levels — Foundation, Intermediate and Final.

The CMA India Syllabus

Foundation course

Intermediate course group 1

Intermediate course group 2

Final course

CMA India vs CMA USA – 11 Deciding Factors To Decide Your Best Course

To help you decide between these two management accounting certifications, here is an in-depth comparison.

CMA India vs CMA USA – Governing board

CMA India vs CMA USA – Recognition

CMA India vs CMA USA – Affiliation

CMA India vs CMA USA – Syllabus

CMA India vs CMA USA – Eligibility criteria

CMA India vs CMA USA – Difficulty level

CMA India vs CMA USA – Fees

CMA India vs CMA USA – Exam Format

CMA India vs CMA USA – Job opportunities

CMA India vs CMA US – Which one is better for you?

While both qualifications are respected in the accounting community, there are some advantages to doing the US CMA course.

Why study US CMA with Proschool?

After carefully reviewing all the features that compare CMA India vs CMA USA, you finally decide on the latter. At this point, it makes sense to enrol with Proschool, one of India’s leading coaching institutions. Proschool offers world-class learning facilities and resources to all students, ensuring a holistic learning experience.

The faculty consists of finance experts with considerable industry experience. These professors use active learning methods and innovative training techniques to help students master their courses.

It’s no surprise that Proschool enjoys a high pass rate among students. The high level of commitment and dedication from the staff ensures that no stone is left unturned towards your professional education.

The CMA US course is widely regarded in the industry, but to get certified you need to pass the rigorous exams. Proschool can help you achieve your goals and ensure your accounting career is off to a great start.

Benefits of studying with Proschool:

• You can attend any of the learning centres set up in all major cities in India.
• You can also opt for online sessions if that is more convenient for you.
• Proschool has an enormous library of learning resources that include practice papers, mock tests, an extensive pool of over 4,000 MCQ questions and over 90 essays.
• Students also receive recruitment-based training, as they learn how to give professional interviews and write resumes.
• Once certified, you can access and apply for multiple job openings on Proschool’s renewed placement program.

Conclusion

When you have to make a decision, it’s best to list the pros and cons. Our analysis of CMA US vs CMA India can help you decide your career objectives. Where would you like to work? What position appeals to you? What are your future goals? The answer to these questions will help you decide between the two management accounting courses.

FAQs

Is US CMA difficult to clear?

Due to the high standard of the US CMA certification, the exam can be difficult to pass. You must prove you have the knowledge and expertise to work as a CMA-certified professional. If you have a proper study plan or enrol with a reputed coaching institute like Proschool, you will be well prepared to take the exams.

Which is better CMA US or CA?

Both courses offer intensive training for future accountants, but they differ in job opportunities. The CA professional is better suited for working in Indian firms in areas, such as auditing, accounting and taxation.

The CMA US is ideal for management accounting and strategic financial management. You also get the opportunity to work abroad or with MNCs in India.

So while both programs have their strengths, the choice comes down to what kind of accountant you want to be.

Can I work abroad with a US CMA qualification?

Yes. The US CMA certification is valid in over 100 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada and India. It opens up several opportunities in some of the world’s financial companies and accounting firms and can give a significant boost to your career.

Can the Indian CMA work in the USA?

It is possible but the opportunities may be fewer than you would like. If you plan to work in the USA, a US CMA or ACCA certification may be better.

Does US CMA have value in India?

Yes, there are many job prospects if you are a US CMA holder in India. You are eligible to work in several industries while holding prominent positions within the company.