ACCA or CMA (US): Salary Secrets & Global Impact Revealed
Choosing the right professional qualification can be daunting for aspiring students looking to advance their careers in the fast-paced world of finance and accounting. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognised accounting body, offering in-depth knowledge in finance, accounting, and business management. On the other hand, the CMA (Certified Management Accountant) certification, offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), focuses on management accounting, financial planning, and strategic analysis. In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about CMA vs ACCA to help you make an informed career choice.
Also, check out our video on ACCA vs CFA:
Overview ACCA vs CMA (US)
Deciding between CMA and ACCA can be challenging for aspiring professionals, especially when considering factors such as CMA vs ACCA salary and career opportunities in the dynamic fields of finance and accounting.
What Does ACCA Stand For?
ACCA is a professional qualification focusing on Accounting, Finance & Business Management. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is a globally recognized professional body headquartered in London. This rigorous program equips individuals with a comprehensive understanding of accounting, finance, and business management, preparing them for success in diverse careers.
ACCA is an international qualification with over 250,000+ members and 526,000 students from more than 181 countries. Its widespread recognition and rigorous standards make it a valuable asset for career advancement, opening doors to exciting global opportunities.
What Does CMA (US) Stand For?
The CMA qualification focuses on management accounting and covers financial planning, analysis, control, and decision-making. The US CMA course is designed for professionals interested in pursuing a career in management accounting, finance, and business analysis.
The CMA qualification isn’t limited to the US; it’s a globally recognized credential in financial management, valued by employers worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria For US CMA Vs ACCA
Evaluating the entry requirements for CMA and ACCA is an essential first step for aspiring finance professionals. Understanding these criteria allows you to plan your studies effectively, leverage any prior qualifications, and anticipate the time and effort required to achieve certification. While both certifications offer rewarding career prospects and potential salary advantages, the pathways to each differ significantly, influencing how quickly you can progress and which exemptions you may be eligible for. Carefully assessing your academic background and professional goals will help determine which route aligns best with your ambitions.
|
Qualification |
Entry Points & Requirements |
Typical Completion Time |
| ACCA | Offers flexible entry points: • After Grade 10/12: Start with foundation-level courses. • After Graduation (B.Com/M.Com): Build upon knowledge with possible exemptions. • After CA Inter/Final: Leverage studies for up to 9 exemptions. |
2.5 to 3 years, depending on pace and prior qualifications. |
| CMA (US) | You can start preparing and appear for the exam after grade 12 To be certified you need: 1. A Bachelor’s degree. 2. Completion of both CMA exams. 3. Two years of relevant work experience. |
The exam itself is typically completed in 6 to 12 months. |
ACCA vs US CMA Subjects & Syllabus
Understanding the detailed curriculum for CMA vs ACCA salary helps you decide which qualification aligns better with your career goals.
ACCA Subjects
The ACCA syllabus is divided into 13 exams (fewer with exemptions) across three levels:
Knowledge Level:
- Business and Technology (BT)
- Management Accounting (MA)
- Financial Accounting (FA)
Skill Level:
- Corporate and Business Law (LW)
- Performance Management (PM)
- Taxation (TX)
- Financial Reporting (FR)
- Audit and Assurance (AA)
- Financial Management (FM)
Professional Level:
- Essential Papers: Strategic Business Leader (SBL), Strategic Business Reporting (SBR)
- Optional Papers (choose 2): Advanced Financial Management (AFM), Advanced Performance Management (APM), Advanced Taxation (ATX), Advanced Audit and Assurance (AAA)
All ACCA exams are computer-based.
CMA (US) Subjects
Earning your CMA US qualification unlocks a world of career possibilities in finance and accounting. But before you dive in, understanding the exam structure is crucial. Here’s a breakdown:
The exam is divided into two parts, each a four-hour test:
Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
Part 2: Strategic Financial Management
Exam Structure: How Are the Tests Conducted?
Understanding the exam structure is vital for planning your study strategy and managing time effectively. While both CMA and ACCA are globally recognised, they differ in format, scheduling, and flexibility, which can influence how quickly you progress and how you prepare for each stage. Knowing these details helps candidates select the approach that best suits their learning style and career timeline.
| Aspect | ACCA | CMA (US) |
| Format | Computer-based exams across three levels (as explained above). Each level offers flexibility, allowing you to progress at your own pace and conquer sections individually. | Exams are taken online at Prometric Centers located throughout India. Students can book their preferred exam day and slot for any of the testing windows. |
| Frequency | ACCA exams happen 4 times a year: March, June, September, and December. | IMA, USA administers US CMA exams annually in three testing windows: Jan-Feb, May-Jun, Sep-Oct. |
Passing Rates: What Are the Challenges?
Exam pass rates offer valuable insight into the level of preparation and effort required for each qualification. Both ACCA and CMA (US) exams are known for their rigour, and the statistics reflect the need for disciplined study, strong conceptual understanding, and practical application. Knowing the typical success rates can help candidates plan their preparation strategy effectively.
ACCA: Average pass rates typically range from 40% to 50%, depending on the specific paper and level.
CMA (US): Average pass rates generally fall between 45% and 50%, reflecting the challenging nature of financial management and strategic concepts.
Cost: What is the Financial Investment?
Pursuing a professional qualification like ACCA or CMA involves a notable financial commitment. Costs include registration and subscription fees, exam fees, study materials, and optional tuition or coaching. Understanding these expenses in advance helps candidates plan their budget, weigh the return on investment, and make informed decisions about which certification aligns best with their career goals.
| Qualification | Estimated Total Cost in India |
| ACCA | INR 4 to 4.5 lakhs |
| CMA (US) | INR 1.3 to 1.5 lakhs |
Salary Difference: What Are the Earning Prospects?
When comparing the salary prospects of ACCA and CMA, it’s important to note that both qualifications offer strong career opportunities, but the salary potential can vary depending on the certification. The salary differences reflect regional demands and the nature of the respective certifications in different industries.
Salary for CMA: A CMA-qualified professional with no experience can earn an average salary of around INR 4 – 5 LPA.
Salary for ACCA: An ACCA course-qualified professional with no experience typically earns an average salary of around INR 5 – 7 LPA. After completing 3 years of work experience and becoming an ACCA member the average salary jumps up to INR 8 to 10 LPA.
Job Roles: Exploring Career Opportunities
Understanding the range of career paths offered by CMA and ACCA, along with potential salary benefits, can help you make an informed decision about your professional growth in finance and accounting.
ACCA
ACCA’s comprehensive curriculum opens doors to a wide variety of roles across accounting, finance, and business. Potential career opportunities include:
- Accounting
- Financial Planning & Analysis
- Internal & Statutory Auditing
- International Tax
- Advisory
- Management Consulting
- Risk Management
- Investment Banking
- Corporate Finance
- ESG Consulting and more
The versatility of ACCA allows you to explore different paths and select the one that aligns with your strengths and interests. The average salary for a fresher ACCA professional in India is INR 6 to 7 lakhs.
CMA (US)
CMA is highly focused on finance, accounting, and strategic analysis. Career opportunities include:
- Financial Planning & Analysis
- Preparation of Financial Statements
- Forecasting
- Managing General Ledger and Balance Sheets
- Managerial Accounting
- Company Investment Decision-Making
- Risk Evaluation
- Cost Analysis
In India, the average salary for a CMA professional ranges from INR 5 to 6 lakhs, depending on experience and job role.
ACCA vs CMA: The Key Difference Between the Two
Choosing between ACCA and CMA can be challenging for aspiring finance professionals. Both qualifications are globally recognized and offer distinct advantages depending on your career goals. While ACCA has a strong international presence and is well-suited for accounting and auditing roles, CMA focuses more on management accounting and strategic financial decision-making. Understanding their differences in structure, recognition, and career outcomes can help you make an informed choice.
| Sections | ACCA | CMA |
| Global Presence | ACCA is more recognized internationally. Over 542,000 students and 250,000+ ACCA members in 180 countries. | CMA has 140,000 members with a global presence in over 100 countries. |
| Certification Organised By | The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants is the global group that organizes the ACCA courses. ACCA was established in 1904. | CMA is organized by the Institute of Certified Management Accountants (ICMA). CMA was established in 1919. |
| Number of Levels | To be eligible for the ACCA programme, you must pass three levels. ACCA has a total of 13 papers altogether. | CMA has two parts. |
| Entry Requirements | No formal education is required if you’re joining via FIA Route | Students can start preparing and appear for US CMA after 12th |
| Mode of Exam | In ACCA, the first three papers under the knowledge level are two hours, and the rest are 3 hours each. | In CMA, you must take two exams, and each exam lasts for four hours. |
| Pass Percentage | ACCA pass rates range between 40 to 50% on average. | The pass percentages for CMA are approximately 45-50%. |
| Job Opportunities | After completing ACCA, you can join MNCs, Financial Services & Consulting companies, Auditing and accounting firms, etc. | CMA candidates can work as Financial Risk Managers, Management & Cost Accountants, Financial accountants, etc. |
ACCA or CMA: Which is Better for Your Career?
When comparing CMA vs ACCA, many aspiring professionals often ask: which qualification is better? Both certifications are highly respected, but they cater to different career paths.
ACCA:
Offers a comprehensive understanding of global finance and accounting practices, making it ideal for individuals seeking diverse career opportunities across accounting, auditing, taxation, and business strategy.
CMA (US):
Focuses on strategic management and financial planning, making it perfect for those aiming for roles in management accounting, corporate finance, or internal auditing.
ACCA or CMA: Which is Tougher?
Evaluating the difficulty level is an important part of the decision-making process. Both ACCA and CMA are challenging but in different ways.
ACCA: Covers a broader range of subjects, requiring in-depth knowledge of global accounting standards and practical financial applications. It’s like MBA + CA
CMA (US): Concentrates on management accounting, demanding strong skills in financial analysis and strategic decision-making.
The perceived difficulty depends on your background, strengths, and career focus.
ACCA vs CMA (US): Choosing the Right Qualification for You
Both ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and CMA (Certified Management Accountant) are prestigious qualifications, but they serve distinct professional goals.
ACCA:
Provides a well-rounded perspective in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business strategy. Its exam structure prepares students for real-world scenarios, making graduates highly employable as auditors, consultants, financial analysts, or finance managers.
CMA (US):
Delves into management accounting, emphasising cost management, financial analysis, and strategic decision-making. It is particularly suited for careers in corporate finance, cost accounting, or internal auditing, with a strong relevance in the American corporate environment.
The choice between ACCA and CMA ultimately depends on your passion and long-term career goals. ACCA suits those seeking international exposure and a broad financial skill set. CMA suits those drawn to corporate finance and strategic analysis.
Conclusion
While both ACCA and CMA offer strong career prospects, the right choice depends on your goals, sector preference, and learning style. A closer look at each qualification’s curriculum, exam structure, and career pathways is essential, particularly if flexible study options such as an ACCA course online suit your schedule and learning needs. There is no universal answer. The best path aligns with your strengths, sustains your interest, and supports your long-term career vision.
Synthesis Learning provides tailored courses for ACCA and CMA certifications, guiding you to select the right path based on your professional goals. Our programs are designed to match your learning style, preparing you thoroughly for exams and equipping you for long-term career success.
You can also read our detailed comparison blogs:
Each blog offers clear insights to help you make an informed academic and career decision.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between CMA and ACCA?
The key differences between CMA and ACCA lie in global recognition, potential salary outcomes, pass rates, and the value each adds to a candidate’s resume and skill set. Both qualifications provide multiple career opportunities worldwide. ACCA prepares you for roles such as auditor, financial planner, and financial advisor, whereas CMA is more focused on management accounting and corporate sector roles.
2. Is CMA equal to or better than ACCA?
Both CMA and ACCA are respected accounting and finance qualifications, each with its own advantages. While both can lead to rewarding careers in finance, they differ in focus and structure. For a detailed comparison, refer to the table above.
3. Can I do CMA after ACCA?
Yes, you can pursue the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) qualification even after completing ACCA. ACCA members can enrol in CMA courses regardless of whether they hold a bachelor’s degree.
4. Which is more costly, CMA or ACCA?
The cost of CMA and ACCA courses varies depending on the country of study and work aspirations. It is important to understand the key features of each course and the career benefits they provide before making a decision.
5. ACCA vs CMA: which is easier?
The average pass rate for CMA is approximately 40-45%, while ACCA’s pass rate ranges between 40% and 50%. The relative difficulty of either course depends on your prior knowledge, practice, and learning progress.
