CPA vs CMA: Which Is Best For Your Accounting Career?

For those working in accounting or finance, or planning to enter the industry, two of the most respected credentials in the field are the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and the CMA (Certified Management Accountant).

Both carry weight on a résumé, both can boost your salary potential, and both show employers that you’re serious about your career. But although their acronyms sound similar, they’re not the same. The CPA is rooted in public accounting, audit, and assurance, while the CMA leans toward management accounting, financial planning, and strategy.

So which one is better, and how do you decide? 

As each serves a different purpose, opens different doors, and requires a different kind of commitment, which one is right for you ultimately depends on where you see your career going.

In this guide, we’ll compare the CMA vs CPA side-by-side. We’ll look at everything from exam structure and eligibility requirements, to difficulty and pass rates. We’ll also compare the time and costs involved in earning them, and explore the career paths and salary potential associated with each to help you identify which is best aligned with your long-term career goals.

CPA vs CMA: at a glance comparison

If you just want the highlights, here’s a quick side-by-side of the CPA vs CMA. This snapshot covers the key differences and similarities so you can see how they stack up before we dive into the details and nuances further down the page.

Feature	CPA (Certified Public Accountant)	CMA (Certified Management Accountant)
Governing body	State Boards of Accountancy (U.S.), overseen by NASBA & AICPA	Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
Focus area	Public accounting, audit, tax, financial reporting	Management accounting, FP&A, corporate strategy
Exam structure	4 sections, 4 hours per section	2 parts, 4 hours per part
Typical study duration	300-500 hours over 12-24 months	200-400 hours over 6-12 months
Education requirement	Bachelor’s degree (in accounting or related subject) plus 30 additional credits (e.g. Master’s degree)	Bachelor’s degree (any subject)
Work experience requirement	1-2 years (varies by state)	2 years
Costs	$2,150-$8,170	$2,185-$3,585
Availability	Available in the U.S. and select countries	Available in over 100 countries
Global recognition	Strong recognition in the U.S., moderate recognition abroad	Widely recognized globally
Typical roles & career path	Tax Specialist, Audit, Compliance, Forensic Accounting, CFO, Partner	Financial Analyst, Management Accountant, FP&A, Finance Director, CFO
Typical salary range	$55k-$200k+	$60k-$190k+
Ongoing requirements	40 hours CPE per year (varies by state)	30 hours CPE per year (including ethics)

Both the CPA and CMA are highly regarded designations in accounting and finance. But they exist for different reasons, and as a result, serve different career paths.

One simplified way to think about it is that CPAs look back, making sure past financial results are accurate and compliant. CMAs look forward, using financial insights to guide a company’s future strategy.

This is a generalization of course; there are plenty of CPAs involved in making decisions and guiding strategies that impact the direction of an organization. Similarly, a lot of CMAs will be involved in reviewing and analyzing historic data. But as a quick rule of thumb: CPAs work with past data, CMAs work with forward planning.

Before we get into comparing different aspects of the CPA vs CMA, here’s a quick summary of who and what each is designed for.

CPA (Certified Public Accountant)

The CPA is the go-to for public accounting, audit, and tax. It’s a license that is a requirement in certain roles, and signals credibility, compliance, and deep technical authority, especially in the U.S.

As a professional license issued by U.S. state boards of accountancy, the CPA is generally regarded as the gold standard in public accounting, and is legally required if you want to sign audit reports. Beyond audit, it’s also widely recognized in tax, compliance, and financial reporting.

In practice, CPAs are trusted experts with the skills to ensure financial statements are accurate, compliant, and reliable. This makes the credential essential in regulatory-facing roles and highly valued in corporate settings that need rigorous financial oversight.

CMA (Certified Management Accountant)

The CMA is the credential designed for corporate finance, planning, management, and strategy. It’s a globally recognized certification that highlights your ability to turn financial insight into business impact and leadership.

The CMA is a global certification awarded by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). Unlike the CPA, it’s not a legal license but a professional qualification that demonstrates expertise in management accounting, corporate finance, and strategic decision-making.

CMAs are focused on using financial data to drive planning, analysis, and strategy inside organizations. That’s why the designation is especially valued in roles like financial planning and analysis (FP&A), corporate strategy, and leadership positions within multinational companies.

Exam structure & content: how the CPA and CMA differ

One of the biggest differences between the CMA vs CPA is how their exams are designed, both in format and in the type of knowledge they test.

CPA exam structure

The CPA exam is divided into four sections, each lasting 4 hours. In total, that’s 16 hours of testing.

• Three are core sections that everyone must take
• One is a discipline section, where you choose one option from three specializations

CPA exam format

The exams are computer-based and comprise (approximately):

• 50% multiple choice questions (MCQs)
• 50% task-based simulations (TBSs) which are case study style questions

Each exam is scheduled individually, giving you flexibility to fit them around work or study. You can take the sections in any order, one at a time. Most candidates spread them across 12-18 months, but you usually have up to 30 months (depending on your state) to complete all four once you’ve passed your first.

What’s tested on the CPA exam:

Compulsory sections:

• AUD (Auditing & Attestation): Audit procedures, ethics, professional responsibilities, internal controls, and assurance services.
• FAR (Financial Accounting & Reporting): U.S. GAAP, IFRS basics, financial statements, and government/nonprofit accounting.
• REG (Taxation & Regulation): U.S. federal taxation, business law, ethics, and professional responsibilities.

Discipline (you choose one of these):

• BAR (Business Analysis & Reporting): Focuses on financial statement analysis, advanced accounting, and reporting issues. Suited for candidates interested in corporate reporting or advisory work.
• ISC (Information Systems & Controls): Covers IT governance, cybersecurity, internal controls, and system security. Good for those interested in audit technology or risk management.
• TCP (Tax Compliance & Planning): Specializes in advanced individual and entity taxation, planning strategies, and compliance. Ideal for candidates focusing on tax advisory or planning roles.

CMA exam structure

The CMA exam is made up of two parts, each lasting 4 hours, for a total of 8 testing hours.

• Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance & Analytics
• Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

CMA exam format

Each exam is computer-based, with:

• 100 multiple-choice questions 
• Two essay scenarios

You can take the parts in any order, and they’re offered in testing windows several times a year (January/February, May/June, and September/October). This flexibility allows you to balance preparation alongside work or studies, focusing on one part at a time if needed. 

Most candidates aim to pass both parts within 6-12 months, though you have up to 3 years from the date you enter the CMA program to complete them. 

What’s tested on the CMA exam:

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance & Analytics

Focuses on the nuts and bolts of management accounting. You’ll be tested on planning and budgeting, forecasting, cost management, internal controls, performance measurement, and variance analysis. This part emphasizes how to analyze financial information and evaluate operational performance.

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

Concentrates on higher-level financial decision-making. Topics include corporate finance, decision analysis, investment decisions, risk management, professional ethics, and long-term strategic planning. This part is designed to test your ability to apply financial insights to guide business strategy and leadership.

Where are the CPA and CMA exams taken?

CPA Exam: 

• Administered through Prometric testing centers.
• No remote testing option is offered for the CPA.
• Available throughout the U.S. and in select international locations.

CMA Exam: 

• Administered through Prometric centers.
• Remote testing option via Prometric’s ProProctor platform.
• Available in over 100 countries.

If you’re based in the U.S. both exams are equally accessible. But if you’re elsewhere in the world, the CMA exam is available in a wider range of countries. 

The CMA’s remote option also makes it more accessible, and can potentially save you significant travel time depending where you’re located. Meanwhile, the CPA currently does not offer a remote option, which can make taking the exams less flexible for some candidates.

CPA vs CMA exam structure and format compared

Here’s a side-by-side look at how the CMA vs CPA exams compare:

Feature	CPA Exam	CMA Exam
Number of sections/parts	4 sections (3 core + 1 discipline)	2 parts
Length	4 hours per section (16 hours total)	4 hours per part (8 hours total)
Format	Multiple-choice questions + task-based simulations	Multiple-choice questions + essay scenarios
Exam location	Prometric testing centers (in-person only)	Prometric testing centers and remotely
Geographic Availability	U.S. and select countries	Over 100 countries
Order	Sections can be taken in any order	Parts can be taken in any order
Completion window	18-30 months (after first pass)	3 years (from program enrollment)
Content focus	Broad, technical, U.S.-focused (GAAP, auditing, tax)	Analytical, strategy-focused, globally applicable

Difficulty & pass rates: is the CPA or CMA exam tougher?

A question a lot of people who are considering these designations ask is, “Which is more difficult, the CPA exam or the CMA exam?”

Well, they’re both challenging exams, but they’re hard in different ways.

How difficult is the CPA exam?

The CPA exam is demanding because of its breadth and duration. It covers a wide range of U.S. specific topics, and candidates need to pass four separate 4-hour sections within a limited window (usually 18-30 months). 

One of the toughest hurdles for many is not just the content (which can be difficult in itself), but sustaining motivation and consistency across what can feel like a very long exam journey.

How difficult is the CMA exam?

The CMA exam is shorter than the CPA (just two 4-hour parts), but it’s not necessarily easier. The questions are more analytical and applied, requiring candidates to interpret financial information and then connect it to business decisions. 

Part 1 of the CMA in particular has a reputation for being tricky, and average pass rates remain modest despite the smaller exam structure.

CPA vs CMA pass rates compared

• There isn’t an overall pass rate encompassing all exams, however the weighted average CPA pass rate is usually around 45%-55%.
• The average pass rate across both parts of the CMA exam is typically around 45%-50%.

To put this into context, let’s take a look at recent data for CMA vs CPA exams from a single year:

Exam	Pass rate by section/part (recent data)	Average pass rate
CPA	AUD: 46% FAR: 40% REG: 63% BAR: 38% ISC: 58% TCP: 74%	53%
CMA	Part 1: 45% Part 2: 45%	45%

Data from AICPA (CPA) and IMA (CMA).

Do pass rates indicate which exam is harder?

At first glance, the CMA’s global pass rates (which are typically around 45–50%) might suggest it’s a bit harder than the CPA overall, where scores for some sections rise into the 60% and over range. 

But pass rates don’t tell the whole story; they also reflect the candidate pool:

• The CPA exam is attempted mostly by U.S. based candidates with accounting degrees who’ve met strict eligibility requirements. This subject-specific baseline knowledge potentially raises the average.
• The CMA exam attracts a more global audience, with candidates from a wider range of educational and professional backgrounds. That variety, which likely includes fewer subject specialists, can possibly bring down the overall pass rate.

That is to say, everyone who takes the CPA is already qualified to bachelor’s level (and in most cases master’s level) in accounting. Whereas while everyone who takes the CMA is qualified to at least bachelor’s level, they aren’t necessarily qualified or experienced in accounting specifically.

Which is harder: CPA or CMA?

There isn’t a definitive answer to this, because really it depends on what you find most challenging:

CPA	CMA
– Harder in terms of breadth, detail, and exam length.  – You’ll need to master more material and stay motivated through a long, multi-section process. – You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in accounting to qualify to sit the exam.	– Harder in terms of analytical application. – You’ll need to apply financial concepts to real-world scenarios and demonstrate strategic thinking under time pressure. – You’ll need a bachelor’s degree to qualify to sit the exam, but it can be in any subject.

So if you’re measuring by sheer scope and endurance, the CPA is probably harder. But if you’re measuring by problem-solving and analysis, the CMA can feel tougher.

It’s important to consider your own educational background, existing skills, and the type and amount of work experience you have under your belt. These are all factors that can play a major role in which exam you’ll find harder to study for and pass.

Study hours & timeframes: which takes longer

Preparing for either the CMA exam vs CPA exam is a serious time commitment. But figuring out exactly how much time you’ll need depends on a range of factors including your study habits, the type of help you get through prep courses, and whether you’re working while studying.

With that being said, the vast majority of people find they need to spend several hundred hours studying for either exam.

Here’s a summary table comparing typical study timeframes for the CPA vs CMA:

Exam	Typical total study time	Study time per section/part	Typical completion timeframe	Maximum completion timeframe
CPA	300-500 hours	80-120 hours (4 total)	12-24 months	Up to 30 months (in most states)
CMA	200-400 hours	100-200 hours (2 total)	6-12 months	Up to 36 months

How long do you need to study for the CPA exam?

Most candidates spend around 300-500 hours total preparing, which works out to roughly 80-120 hours per section.

This is an average, and it’s often the case that more difficult sections such as FAR usually require more study time, while others like AUD require a bit less.

Because the exam is split into four parts, it’s often studied over a longer timeline. Many candidates spread their prep across 12–24 months. The challenge isn’t just the hours you need to put in, but the endurance required to sustain momentum and keep motivated through four separate exams.

In most states you need to complete all four sections within 30 months of passing the first section. Deadlines are usually strict, and if you don’t pass all sections within the allotted time, your earliest passes can expire, forcing you to retake them.

How long do you need to study for the CMA exam?

Candidates usually need around 200-400 hours in total, or about 100–200 hours per part on average.

Many candidates weight this to spend a bit more time on part 1, although both parts do need a good amount of time.

With just two exams to complete, some people finish within 6–12 months, especially if they can focus on one part per testing window. The total workload is lighter than CPA, but the content is more analytical, so success depends on practicing how to apply concepts rather than just memorizing them.

You’ll need to complete both parts of the CMA exam within 3 years. But with fewer parts and a longer completion window, you’ll have a bit more breathing room than with the CPA.

Factors that influence study time:

• Background and education: Accounting majors often need less prep time for the CPA, while those with corporate finance experience may find the CMA easier.
  
• Study resources: A good review or prep course can save you significant hours by organizing content and practice, and making studying more efficient. Get the lowdown on the 7 best CPA study materials here.

• Work commitments: Full-time professionals may need to stretch prep time over more months to accommodate work requirements.

• Exam pacing: Some candidates push aggressively to finish quickly, while others take a section or part each testing window, and build time off between each one into their study schedule.

CPA vs CMA: study time comparison

The CPA usually requires more total time because of its four-part structure and broader scope, while the CMA is shorter and can usually be completed faster (although you’ll probably need to spend more time on each part of the CMA exam than you would on each section of the CPA exam). But both demand focused, disciplined preparation.

As a practical example, if you’re able to commit around 10 hours a week to studying, that works out to:

• Between about 30 and 50 weeks for the CPA exam, depending on how you pace the four sections.
• Between about 20 and 40 weeks for the CMA exam if you prepare for one part at a time.

The bottom line is that whether you’re studying for the CPA or the CMA, expect to invest hundreds of hours either way. 

Costs: beaking down CPA vs CMA exam fees

Both the CPA and CMA come with a price tag, but the totals can vary quite a bit. Overall the CPA tends to be more expensive for most people, mainly because of state-specific CPA requirements which often mean additional fees.

The CMA is usually a bit cheaper and more straightforward, though costs can still add up depending on how you prepare. However, if you decide you don’t need any study materials, and you live in one of the states where CPA fees are lower, the CPA can actually work out slightly cheaper in some cases.

For the purpose of this comparison we’ll exclude costs for meeting education requirements (e.g. college degrees) and focus on the direct costs involved in achieving a CPA vs CMA. 

Here’s a breakdown of the costs most people will need to cover for each one:

Cost item	CPA	CMA
Application / entrance fee:	$50-$400	$300
Exam Fees:	(4 sections @ $262.64 each) $1,050.56	(2 parts @ $495 each) $990
Membership:	N/A (optional)	$295
Study material:	$1,000-$6,000	$600-$2,000
Ethics exam:	$0-$320	N/A
License application:	$50-$400	N/A
Total:	$2,150.56-$8,170.56	$2,185-$3,585

Now that we’ve seen how the CPA vs CMA costs compare directly, let’s take a closer look into what’s involved in each:

CPA exam & licensing costs

Because the CPA is issued on a state-by-state basis, costs vary depending on where you apply. Each state has its own requirements, and each state board of accountancy sets its own application and registration fees. So two candidates can end up paying very different amounts.

At a minimum, you’ll need to budget for the exam itself: 

• The application and registration fees
• The four exam sections
• Study materials (optional, but recommended)

Once you’ve passed, there are a few extra steps before you can actually get your license:

• Most states require an extra ethics exam that you’ll need to pay for
• A fee to apply for your license

Here’s a breakdown of the main CPA costs:

Item	Cost
Application & registration fee:	$50-$400
Exam fee (four sections @ $262.64 each):	$1,050.56
Study material:	$1,000-$6,000
Ethics exam:	$0-$320
License application:	$50-$400
CPA total cost:	$2,150.56-$8,170.56

What’s a typical all-in cost for the CPA?

In practice, most CPA candidates spend somewhere between $3,000 and $7,000 to get licensed. The lower end of this real-world range assumes cheaper review materials and lower state costs for application/licensing, while the higher end reflects more expensive prep courses and higher state fees.

For a deeper dive into what you’ll need to spend to become a CPA, head over to CPA Costs: Full Breakdown of CPA Fees & Expenses.

Employer reimbursement: Many accounting firms (and some corporate employers) will cover part or all of your CPA costs including exam fees, study materials, and license fees. If you’re working in a relevant role, check whether your employer offers this support, as it can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly.

CMA exam & certification costs

Unlike the CPA, the CMA is a globally administered certification, so the costs are the same regardless of where you’re based. That makes it a little easier to predict your budget.

To become a CMA, you’ll need to pay three main fees: 

• The entrance fee
• The two-part exam fees
• Your annual IMA membership. 

On top of that, most candidates also invest in a review course or study materials. Like the CPA, this is optional, but it’s generally considered a good investment to help you prepare effectively and avoid retakes.

Here’s a breakdown of the main CMA costs:

Item	Cost
CMA entrance fee:	$300
Exam fee (two parts @ $495 each):	$990
IMA membership (annual):	$295
Study material:	$600-$2,000
CMA total cost:	$2,185-$3,585

What’s a typical all-in cost for the CMA?

Most CMA candidates typically spend between about $2,000 and $3,000 all-in. As the CMA costs are generally standard, the main thing that changes the total is how much you spend on study materials.

Student discounts: The IMA offers significant savings for students. Annual membership can drop from $295 to around $49, and both the entrance and exam fees are discounted. For those still in school, this can lower the overall cost of the CMA by several hundred dollars.

Career paths & salaries: where the CPA & CMA can take you

Let’s face it, most people aren’t putting in all the time and effort it takes to earn a CPA or CMA just for fun. They’re doing it primarily because of the career prospects and earning potential these credentials can lead to.

Both the CPA and CMA can boost your career, but they tend to open doors in slightly different directions. So let’s take a look at what a typical career path might look like for anyone with (or working towards) the CPA vs CMA.

Typical CPA career path

The range of CPA career paths is actually quite varied, and there are plenty of opportunities to specialize in areas such as tax, forensic accounting, or audit.

And because a CPA license is a requirement for signing off on audits and financial statements in the U.S., it’s indispensable in many regulatory and compliance-focused careers.

CPA Career Stage	Example CPA Roles	Description
Entry-level	– Audit associate – Tax associate – Junior accountant	Many start in public accounting firms (including the Big 4) or government agencies.
Mid-career	– Senior auditor – Tax manager – Financial reporting manager – Controller	CPAs often transition into corporate finance or internal audit roles after gaining public accounting experience.
Senior-level	– Partner in a public accounting firm – Chief accounting officer – CFO	CPAs frequently move into executive leadership once they’ve built technical credibility and gained significant experience

If you’re interested in tax-related roles specifically, another path to consider is Enrolled Agent (EA). You can see how the CPA and EA compare here.

But if you’re also considering whether an MBA might actually be a better route into leadership, check out our 11-point CPA vs MBA comparison.

Typical industries that employ CPAs:

• Public accounting firms (Big 4 and regional firms)
• Government regulators
• Fortune 500 companies
• Nonprofits
• Accountancy consulting/advisory practices.

Typical CMA career path

The CMA is designed for professionals who want to use accounting and finance to drive business decisions. It’s well regarded in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, where management accounting is central to business strategy.

The CMA credential emphasizes strategy and leadership, often fast-tracking professionals toward senior roles within corporations.

CMA Career Stage	Example CMA Roles	Description
Entry-level	– Financial analyst – Management accountant – Cost accountant – Budget analyst	Many CMAs start in corporate accounting or FP&A teams.
Mid-career	– Finance manager – FP&A manager – Controller	CMAs often rise quickly within corporate environments, taking on decision-support and performance analysis roles.
Senior-level	– Director of finance – CFO – VP of strategy	The CMA is highly valued in multinational corporations for roles that combine financial acumen with leadership.

Typical industries that employ CMAs:

• Multinational corporations
• Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Technology
• Global financial services. 

CPA vs CMA salary comparison

According to recent data from Payscale.com, the average CPA base salary and the average CMA base salary is the same (in the U.S.), at around $104k per year. That’s before bonuses and other benefits, which can often increase the total compensation by around 10-20% or more.

For a closer look at CPA salaries head over to: CPA Salary – How Much Do Certified Public Accountants Make?

So, at least in the U.S., that puts the two designations on a pretty even footing. But what about over the course of a career? After all, it’s not just about where you start, it’s about how your compensation grows as your career moves forward.

Career Stage	CPA (U.S.) Avg. Salary	CMA (U.S.) Avg. Salary
Early-career (0-5 yrs)	$55-$70k	$60-$75k
Mid-career (5-10 yrs)	$100-$150k	$100-$130k
Senior/leadership (10+ yrs)	$175-$200k+	$150-$190k+

On average, CPAs earn about 15-20% more than their non-CPA peers in similar roles. There tends to be less of a difference at entry level roles (around a 10% increase), but the impact of a CPA becomes stronger as you progress further along a career path.

The IMA reports that CMAs earn a premium of around 20% or more (reaching over 40% in some regions) compared to non-CMAs in management accounting roles, especially outside the U.S. In corporate finance and management, CMAs often move quickly into leadership positions with six-figure potential.

What affects CPA & CMA salaries at different career stages

Early career (0-5 years):

At entry level, CPA vs CMA are roughly neck and neck in the U.S:

• If you’re a CPA you’ll probably start in public accounting as an audit or tax associate, pulling in somewhere around $55k-$70k.
• New CMAs usually land in FP&A or cost accounting roles, earning slightly more on average, about $60k–$75k.

The CMA can open more doors (and possibly bigger paychecks) internationally, and on a global level it often has a slight edge at this stage. In regions like Asia or the Middle East, being CMA-certified can bump your salary 20–30% higher than peers without the credential, whereas there’s often less demand for those with a CPA license.

Mid career (5-10 years):

This is where CPAs in the U.S. really start to see their credential pay off. 

• Audit managers, tax managers, or corporate controllers with a CPA often make $100k-$150k+, especially in firms where the CPA is required.
• CMAs in the U.S. also do well at this stage, with roles like finance manager or FP&A manager typically paying $100k-$130k.

Again, it’s outside the U.S. where the CMA shines brighter. The IMA’s data shows they continue to earn 20-30% more than non-CMAs, with the gap especially big in Europe. This means that by the  mid-career point, CPAs often lead the salary race in the U.S., but CMAs can continue to have the advantage in other markets, especially in multinational firms.

Senior & executive level (10+ years):

At the top end, CPAs tend to peak higher in U.S. public accounting, while CMAs often come out ahead in multinational leadership roles abroad.

• CPA licensed partners at Big 4 firms, or other senior corporate finance leaders in the U.S. often earn $175k-$200k+, with many far exceeding that.
• CMAs in the U.S. move into leadership roles like finance director, VP of finance, or CFO, typically making $150k-$190k. At the very top, CMA salaries can match or even exceed CPA earnings, depending on the company.

On an international level, CMAs are often the winners at this stage. In multinational corporations, senior CMAs regularly land packages that rival or surpass CPAs, especially in regions where the CPA license doesn’t carry much weight.

However, in the U.S. the story is a bit different because top-level salaries are usually among the highest in the industry for those with a CPA license.

Factors that influence CPA and CMA salaries

Salaries for those with a CPA license or CMA certification can vary significantly, and there are a wide range of factors that come into play. It’s important to consider how these correspond to where you see your career going to help figure out whether CPA vs CMA will be best for you.

• Global Recognition: The CPA is strongest in the U.S. where it’s often a requirement for audit, tax, and public accounting roles. The CMA is more widely recognized internationally, especially in multinational companies.
  
  So if you plan to work outside the U.S., a CMA may boost your salary prospects more than a CPA, but if you’re working in the U.S. the opposite may be true.

• Career Stage & Timing: Many professionals start with the CPA, then later add the CMA to boost their strategic and management skills. This means the average age of CMAs is often higher, since candidates typically pursue it after some career experience.
  
  This can perhaps push CMA salary averages upward because the pool is more senior, and some CMAs who respond to surveys will also already be CPA licensed. It’s certainly something to think about when looking at the data.

• Role Focus: CPA roles lean toward external-facing work: audit, tax, assurance, regulatory compliance. These are technical roles where the credential is either required or highly expected.
  
  On the other hand, CMA roles lean toward internal management and strategy like corporate finance, planning, management, decision support, and leadership. That management focus can sometimes accelerate career growth into director or CFO tracks.

• Market Demand: In the U.S., there are more roles (especially in public accounting) where a CPA is explicitly required. That built-in demand sustains higher salaries for CPAs, especially in firms where the credential is mandatory.
  
  In corporate settings, a CMA is not usually required, but it’s highly valued, particularly for leadership roles. That can make the CMA a differentiator when competing for management promotions.

Both can (and usually do) lead to six-figure salaries, but the where and how differ.

• The CPA is essential if you want a career in public accounting, assurance, or U.S. regulatory work.
• The CMA may be better suited if your goal is corporate finance, financial planning, or business leadership.

This is mainly because salaries tend to reflect the kinds of roles the CPA and CMA open up, and the relevance of each qualification in different regions:

• CPAs often earn more in the U.S. due to licensing requirements and public accounting demand.
• CMAs can have the edge in some international markets, particularly in corporate management roles.

Ultimately, the impact of either the CPA or the CMA on salary very much depends on:

1. Where you’re located.
2. Which area of finance or accounting you work in.

Is it worth doing the CPA and the CMA?

The short answer, in terms of salary potential, is yes.

In fact, quite a few accounting professionals pursue both CPA and CMA. This combination signals both technical expertise and strategic leadership skills. Surveys suggest that candidates with both often earn 10–20% more than those with just one designation, particularly in senior and executive roles.

The CPA + CMA combo is especially powerful for those aiming for CFO, controller, or finance director positions.

The data below from the 2023 IMA Global Salary Survey highlights the impact that holding a CMA alongside a CPA license can have on earning potential (by median base salary) in different parts of the world:

Location	Neither	CPA Only	CMA Only	CPA & CMA
Americas	$99k	$126k	$120k	$138k
Asia Pacific	$26k	$28k	$25k	$32k
Europe	$70k	$57k	$94k	$109k
Middle East/Africa/India	$12k	$36k	$16k	$40k
All	$36k	$91k	$41k	$100k

As this shows, in all regions having both the CPA and the CMA leads to a higher average salary than either designation on its own.

Education & experience requirements for CPA vs CPA

Both the CPA and CMA require a mix of education and professional experience, but the standards differ in scope and jurisdiction.

When deciding between CPA vs CMA and which best meets your needs, it helps to understand exactly what’s required for each.

CPA vs CMA pathway: step by step summary

Here’s a quick summary table of all the requirements you’ll need to meet for the CPA vs CMA.

Stage	CPA Requirements	CMA Requirements
Bachelors Degree	Required (in accounting or related field)	Required (any field) Certain professional certifications may also qualify
Additional credits (e.g. Master’s)	30 hours required	Not required
Exams	4-part Uniform CPA Exam	2-part CMA Exam
Work Experience	1-2 years, supervised and verified by a licensed CPA	2 continuous years in management accounting or financial management
Other Requirements	Ethics exam/course in most states	Membership in the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
Maintenance	Around 40 hours of CPE per year	30 hours of CPE per year

CPA requirements

It’s worth noting that the CPA requirements can be broken down into two parts: one to sit for the exam, and another to actually earn the license. These can differ by state, but here’s how it generally works:

Requirements to take the CPA Exam:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.
• Most states allow you to sit for the exam with 120 semester hours of education.
• Some states may let you sit with fewer credits if you’re close to finishing, though this varies.

Requirements to get licensed as a CPA:

• Pass all four sections of the CPA exam.
• 150 semester hours of education are required in every state (this is 30 more than a standard bachelor’s, so many candidates complete a master’s or extra coursework).
• 1-2 years of relevant work experience.
• In most states, passing an ethics exam or course (usually the AICPA ethics exam).
• Ongoing continuing professional education (CPE) of around 40 hours per year to keep your license active.

What counts as work experience for the CPA?

To become licensed as a CPA, candidates typically need one to two years of professional accounting experience. In most states, this experience must be gained in areas such as public accounting, audit, or tax, though some boards will also accept industry or government work if it is directly supervised by a CPA.

Because licensing is handled at the state-level, the exact rules can vary (for example some states require 1 year of experience, and others require 2). But the common thread is that someone who is already a fully licensed CPA must oversee and sign off on your work experience.

The timing is usually quite flexible and experience can generally be completed before, during, or after passing the CPA exam. However, most states expect you to apply for licensure within a few years (often three to five) of passing your exams.

CMA Requirements

Like the CPA, the CMA has a distinction between what’s required to sit for the exam and what’s needed to actually earn the certification. The IMA gives candidates some flexibility here.

Requirements to take the CMA Exam:

• A bachelor’s degree in any field (doesn’t have to be accounting).
• Alternatively, certain professional certifications (like ACCA or CFA) can be accepted in place of a degree.
• Membership in the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA).

Requirements to get certified as a CMA:

• Pass both parts of the CMA exam.
• Complete 2 continuous years of relevant work experience.
• Ongoing Continuing Professional Education (CPE) of 30 hours per year (including 2 hours of ethics) is required to maintain your certification.

What counts as work experience for the CMA?

Unlike the CPA which operates on a state-level, for the CMA the requirements around experience are more standardized worldwide. Candidates must complete two continuous years of work experience in management accounting or financial management. This can include roles such as financial analyst, cost accountant, or corporate finance associate.

Experience can be gained either before taking the CMA exam, or within 7 years of passing. Your work doesn’t need to be directly supervised by another CMA, however verification is required by the IMA via an employer-signed form. This needs to confirm that your role involved management accounting or financial management responsibilities.

Global recognition & mobility: how CPA & CMA compare

As we’ve already seen above when discussing career paths and salaries, where you work in the world can make a big difference in how valuable the CMA vs CPA is. 

Each credential carries a different weight depending on your region; the CPA is deeply rooted in U.S. regulation, while the CMA was designed with global applicability in mind.

CPA: a legal license with strong U.S. ties

The CPA is a state-issued license in the U.S. This makes it uniquely powerful at home, but less portable abroad.

• In the U.S. a CPA license is essential for public accounting roles and widely respected in corporate finance.
• Internationally, its recognition is more limited, though U.S. multinationals and global firms still value CPAs for their expertise in U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting, and tax.
• To expand its reach, some places (e.g. Canada, Australia, Hong Kong) have mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) that allow CPAs to more easily obtain local credentials.

CMA: a portable credential with global reach

The CMA, by contrast, is a professional certification and not a government-issued license. That distinction makes it far more portable.

• It’s recognized in over 150 countries and isn’t tied to any one jurisdiction’s tax or audit rules.
• Multinational companies, especially in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, view the CMA as valuable for finance professionals working in areas such as financial planning, strategy, and management accounting.
• Because it emphasizes decision-making and business leadership, CMA skills transfer seamlessly across borders without the need for reciprocity agreements.

Which one travels better?

If your career is U.S.-focused, particularly in audit, tax, or regulatory work, the CPA is unmatched (in fact, it’s sometimes a legal requirement). But if your goal is to work outside the U.S., across borders, or climb into corporate leadership roles at multinationals, the CMA offers more global flexibility and recognition.

Which one serves you better depends on where you want your career to go.

Many professionals pair the two: CPA for credibility in the U.S., CMA for global mobility and strategic leadership roles. And as we’ve already mentioned, this can actually lead to higher salaries in all locations.

Work & lifestyle considerations

Beyond exam prep, costs and compensation, it’s worth thinking about what day-to-day life looks like once you’ve got either your CPA license or your CMA certificate. The CPA and CMA often lead to very different working environments, and that can have a big impact on your lifestyle, your motivation, and your overall job satisfaction.

What it’s like to work as a CPA:

• Busy seasons: Early-career CPAs in public accounting usually face long hours and intense “busy seasons” around year-end audits and tax deadlines. It’s not unusual to work 60+ hours a week during these peak periods.

• Client-facing work: For a lot of CPAs, a large part of the job involves serving external clients, whether that’s preparing reports, conducting audits, or advising on compliance issues. This can mean travel, tight deadlines, and plenty of external pressure.

• Career stage shifts: While the first few years can be intense, many CPAs transition into corporate roles, government, or internal audit later on. These roles often come with more predictable schedules and better work-life balance.

What it’s like to work as a CMA:

• Corporate schedules: CMA roles are generally within corporations, so workloads follow internal reporting cycles, budget season, and strategic planning timelines. While busy at times, the hours are usually more predictable than in public accounting.

• Internal focus: CMAs typically work with management and leadership teams, supporting long-term strategy and performance rather than serving external clients. That means less travel and fewer client-driven deadlines.

• Leadership track: Because CMAs are closely tied to planning and decision making, they often move more directly into management and leadership roles. That means more responsibility and involvement in company-wide decisions.

Key differences in working style

• External vs internal focus: CPAs are usually external-facing, working with clients, regulators, or auditors. CMAs are internal-facing, focused on helping their own company succeed.

• Early vs later demands: CPA careers tend to be toughest at the start but ease up as you gain experience. CMA careers are steadier from the outset, but may ramp up in responsibility and pressure as you climb into leadership.

• Travel & flexibility: CPAs may travel more within the U.S. (especially in audit). CMAs usually have more stable, office-based roles, but may travel internationally (depending on their employer).

So if you’re okay with a high-pressure, client-driven environment early on (and want the credibility that comes with it), the CPA can be very rewarding. But if you prefer steady hours and being part of shaping internal business decisions, the CMA might be a better lifestyle fit for you.

CPA vs CMA: which should you choose?

It might sound like a cliché, but there isn’t a definitive answer here; it really does depend on which suits you best personally. 

While both the CPA and CMA can significantly elevate your career, which is the best choice ultimately depends on where you see yourself working and what kind of work excites you most.

With that being said, here are a few guidelines to help you find the right direction:

Why choose the CPA?

The CPA is the gold standard for public accounting, audit, and tax in the U.S. It takes longer, usually costs a bit more, and comes with stricter requirements. But for the right person, the CPA is usually worth doing because it is a legal requirement for some types of work and offers unrivaled credibility in regulatory and compliance-focused roles.

CPA could be best for you if:

• You want to work in public accounting, audit, or tax.
• You plan to sign off on audits or need a state license.
• You want a credential with strong recognition across the U.S. in corporate and government roles.
• You’re comfortable with a longer, more detailed exam process and ongoing state-specific requirements.

Why choose the CMA?

The CMA is the credential of choice for management accountants and finance professionals who want to shape business strategy. It’s faster, more flexible, and globally recognized, making it especially valuable if you’re planning to work outside the U.S. and/or are eyeing roles involving decision-making, strategy, and leadership, particularly at multinational companies.

CMA could be best for you if:

• You see yourself in corporate finance, FP&A, or strategy.
• You want a credential with global recognition that’s especially valuable in multinational companies.
• You prefer a shorter, more flexible exam process.
• You’re aiming for management or leadership roles where decision-making is key.

Consider both if:

• You want maximum flexibility; some professionals earn the CPA first (for U.S. regulatory credibility) and later add the CMA to emphasize strategic and global skills.
• You’re aiming for CFO, controller, or finance director roles in the long term.

The flip side to this is that you might not like the sound of the CPA or the CMA. And that’s perfectly ok. There are a wide range of other financial career paths available, and some very highly regarded qualifications to go along with them such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) that are well worth a look.

FAQs about CPA vs CMA

Hope you found this epic guide of CPA vs CMA useful. Here are some other related articles you might be interested in:

• CFA vs CPA: Which Is Best For You?
• CPA vs MBA: 11 Ways To Decide Which is Better For You
• CPA vs EA: Most Important Differences & Which Is Best?
• CPA Requirements: 5-Step Guide On How To Become a CPA
• Is CPA Worth It? Full Pros, Cons & ROI of Getting A CPA License