Global Strength and Mission of IMA
The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) is a well-established professional organization whose mission is to provide the competencies required for decision-making roles within organizations. The IMA community includes financial leaders working in major multinational corporations, technology companies (SaaS), manufacturing (FMCG), as well as financial services and consulting sectors.
The European regional office is located in Amsterdam and, under the leadership of Alain Mulder, actively supports local markets in building awareness of CMA standards.
CFO Track
The organization emphasizes the so-called “CFO track,” meaning its resources and certification pathway are designed to meet the requirements of senior management roles such as Controllers, Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), and Vice Presidents of Finance.
IMA statistics show that 69% of certified members experience significant career advancement, while CMA holders earn on average 21% more than professionals without such qualifications.
Membership Value and Community
Being part of IMA provides access to a vast knowledge base and professional network:
• 130,000+ members network – access to local chapter events, online forums, and mentoring programs
• Continuing Professional Education (CPE) – 30 hours of training required annually; IMA offers courses in ethics, technology, and finance
• Educational resources – access to the CMA Candidate Resource Center and CMA Exam Support Package
CMA Qualification – Why It Matters
The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential is widely recognized as one of the fastest paths to professional financial certification (only 2 exam parts). The program is forward-looking, meaning it goes beyond historical financial data and focuses on:
• Data technology and analytics
• ESG standards and risk management
• Strategic financial planning
Eligibility Requirements
Education: A bachelor’s or master’s degree (in any field) from an accredited institution.
Professional experience: At least 2 years of work experience in management accounting or finance (can be completed before or after passing the exam).
Active membership: Required membership in the IMA throughout the certification process.
How to Get Started – Registration Path
• Step 1: IMA Membership – create an account and pay the annual fee
• Step 2: CMA Entrance Fee – after payment, you have 3 years to complete the exam
• Step 3: Study – LondonSAM course
• Step 4: Preparation – LOS, and CMA Exam Simulator
Exam Structure:
Each of the two exam parts lasts 4 hours and consists of two sections: 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQ), allocated 3 hours, and 2 case study tasks, allocated 1 hour.
Content Outline:
Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance & Analytics
• Planning, budgeting, and forecasting (20%)
• Performance management and cost management (20% and 15%)
• Technology and analytics (15%)
• Internal controls and external reporting (15%)
Part 2: Strategic Financial Management
• Decision analysis (25%)
• Financial statement analysis and corporate finance (20%)
• Risk management, investment decisions, and professional ethics (10–15%)
Exam Windows and Administration:
Exams are held in three testing windows per year:
• January–February
• May–June
• September–October
Exams are delivered at Prometric testing centers worldwide. Candidates may take the exam parts in any order.
Fees:
IMA Membership: $295 (annual)
CMA Entrance Fee: $300 (one-time, 3 years to complete the program)
Exam Fee – Part 1: $545
Exam Fee – Part 2: $545*
Special offer for students in Poland: 20% discount on applicable fees.
