The CMA has a simple fee structure compared with other finance credentials: one membership, one entrance fee and two exams. The main variables are whether you qualify for student rates, how long you take and whether you need a retake.
CMA total cost calculator
| IMA membership | |
| CMA entrance fee | |
| Exam fees, both parts | |
| Retakes | |
| Review course |
Uses IMA's listed fees. Student rates require you to meet IMA's student criteria. Taxes and rescheduling fees are not included.
Every CMA fee for 2026
| Fee | Professional | Student |
|---|---|---|
| IMA membership (annual) | $295 | $49 |
| CMA entrance fee (one time) | $300 | $225 |
| Exam fee, per part | $545 | $407 |
| Retake, per part | $545 | $407 |
| First-time pass, both parts, one year | $1,685 | $1,088 |
Academic members pay $160 a year in membership. The entrance fee is non-refundable and starts your three-year window to pass both parts.
Three realistic CMA budgets
| Student, self-study | Professional, typical | Professional, slower route | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Membership | 1 year: $49 | 1 year: $295 | 2 years: $590 |
| Entrance + 2 parts | $1,039 | $1,390 | $1,390 |
| Retakes | None | None | 1: $545 |
| Review course | None | $1,200 | $2,000 |
| Total | $1,088 | $2,885 | $4,525 |
Is it worth joining as a student before you graduate?
If you qualify, usually yes. Student rates save $597 on IMA fees for a first-time pass ($1,685 against $1,088), and starting the exams while course material is fresh tends to help. The catch is the three-year window: once you pay the entrance fee, both parts must be passed within three years. Only pay it when you are ready to sit your first part within a few months.
Costs after you become a CMA
- IMA membership: you must remain a member to keep using the CMA designation.
- Annual maintenance: a small yearly CMA fee on top of membership.
- Continuing education: 30 hours a year, including ethics, much of which IMA offers to members.
How to keep CMA costs down
- Use student rates if you are eligible.
- Pass both parts within one membership year to avoid paying dues twice.
- Ask your employer about reimbursement for fees and review courses.
- Prepare well for the first attempt. A retake costs as much as the exam. See the CMA study planner.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the CMA cost in total?
For professional members, IMA fees for passing both parts at the first attempt are about $1,685: $295 membership, a $300 entrance fee and $545 per part. Students pay about $1,088. Review courses and retakes are extra.
How much is the CMA exam fee for students?
Student members pay $407 per exam part, a $225 entrance fee and $49 a year in IMA membership, provided they meet IMA's student criteria.
How much does it cost to retake a CMA part?
A retake costs the full exam fee again: $545 for professionals or $407 for students.
Do I have to stay an IMA member while studying?
Yes. Your IMA membership must be active to register for and sit the exams, so a programme that takes two years means paying membership dues twice.
What does the CMA cost after I pass?
Certified CMAs pay annual IMA membership dues plus a small annual maintenance fee, and must complete 30 hours of continuing education a year.