CMA (ICMAI): Frequently Asked Questions
The questions asked before enrolling, answered from ICMAI's own course structure.
The CMA is ICMAI's statutory cost-and-management accounting qualification: three levels, 20 papers, exams twice a year, and a typical journey of 3 to 4 years. Below are the questions most asked before enrolling, answered from the course's own published structure.
Getting In
Who is eligible for the CMA course?expand_more
You can join Foundation after passing Class 10+2. Graduates in any discipline except fine arts can enter directly at the Intermediate level, as can qualified or pursuing CA/CS candidates.
Is there an age limit?expand_more
No upper age limit. The course is also open to foreign nationals, not only Indian citizens.
When are the exams held?expand_more
Two terms every year, June and December. Registration usually closes 31 January for the June term and 31 July for the December term.
The Course Itself
How many papers does the CMA course have?expand_more
Twenty: 4 in Foundation, 8 in Intermediate across two groups, and 8 in Final across two groups, each paper of 100 marks.
What is the passing criteria?expand_more
A minimum of 40% in each individual paper and an aggregate of at least 50% across all papers in a group. Groups can be cleared independently.
How long does it take to become a CMA?expand_more
Typically 3 to 4 years across Foundation, Intermediate and Final, plus the mandatory practical training, depending on how quickly you clear each group.
What does the course cost?expand_more
Approximate ICMAI course fees are around ₹6,000 for Foundation, ₹22,000 for Intermediate and ₹25,000 for Final, excluding coaching and exam fees.
The fastest answer to "is this for me" is ten real questions.
After Qualifying
What salary can a CMA expect in India?expand_more
Freshers commonly earn ₹6 to 10 LPA, experienced CMAs in manager and controller roles ₹15 to 25 LPA, and CFO-track roles well beyond ₹40 LPA.
Is CMA recognised in India?expand_more
Yes. It is a statutory qualification under the Cost and Works Accountants Act, 1959, and CMAs hold exclusive rights to conduct statutory cost audits.
What designation do I get after passing?expand_more
Associate membership of ICMAI (ACMA), which lets you use the CMA designation. A Certificate of Practice is available for those setting up independent practice.
Where to Verify
Fee schedules, exam dates and syllabus applicability are set by ICMAI and revised between terms. Confirm current details at icmai.in before acting on them.
Next steps
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