Frequently Asked Questions
 
 
What are the global career opportunities for CMA or CFM professionals?
What are the financial benefits of pursuing the CMA or CFM?
How can I receive an information kit?
What is the Entrance Fee?
Do I have to evaluate my university degree?
Where shall I send my applications and university degree?
What parts of the exams can I waive?
Does the ICMA have any manuals or books to help study for the exam?
Q: What are the global career opportunities for CMA or CFM professionals?
A:IMA's CMA and CFM certifications are global certifications. As a respected leader within the global financial community, the IMA influences the concepts and ethical practices in management accounting and financial management worldwide. The CMA and CFM certifications offered by the IMA are standards of quality and expertise. The certified financial professional possesses knowledge, skills, and abilities required globally by the contemporary financial profession.

There are at least two reasons why your professional development and career advancement will significantly benefit from obtaining this designation. First, while studying for the CMA, you will obtain and systemize contemporary professional knowledge, as well as develop skills and abilities which are required by successful businesses. In short, it will improve your value as a financial professional. Second, the worldwide job market can be extremely competitive. To get the job you want, you will need to show that you can make a difference to your prospective employer. Having a CMA/CFM designation shows not only a high level of competence in corporate finance and management accounting, but also a strong commitment to continuous improvement and high ethical standards. Many leading international companies consider the CMA/CFM designations as the ultimate mark of excellence.

Q: What are the financial benefits of pursuing the CMA or CFM?
A:It is definitely a big decision to start the professional certification process, but quite rewarding. First, having the CMA or CFM designation leads to much faster career advancement. In addition, research conducted by IMA indicates that the IMA certified members' average salary and average total compensation is considerably higher than for non-certified professionals. See our salary survey!

Q: How can I receive an information kit?
A:You can request an information kit by calling the IMA at 800-638-4427, outside US 201-573-9000, or contact us at the following e-mail address: ima@imanet.org.

Q: What is the Entrance Fee?
A:The Entrance Fee of $125 is a one-time fee to start the certification process. The fee includes:

review of educational and experience credentials
electronic access to the CMA Resource Guide
access to the Certification e-mail exchange
final score report
personalized certificate
employer notification if desired, and
maintenance of continuing education records.
The fee must be paid before an exam authorization process can start. It is not required at the time of IMA membership application.

Q: Do I have to evaluate my university degree?
A:To meet educational requirements for CMA/CFM certifications, you need to hold a bachelors degree, in any area, from an accredited college or university. Degrees from accredited foreign institutions are acceptable. View a partial listing of foreign universities that are acceptable without an evaluation. If your degree is from an accredited foreign institution, you must submit a transcript translated into English, showing the official university seal. If you are unable to obtain a translation with a university seal, a notarized translation is acceptable.