CA
CMA INDIA
ACCA
CMA USA
CPA USA
EA
B.Com + ACCA
MBA + ACCA
M.Com + CPA
CA
CMA INDIA
ACCA
CMA USA
CPA USA
EA
B.Com + ACCA
MBA + ACCA
M.Com + ACCA

CMA USA vs. ACCA Which Accounting Qualification is Right for Your Career?

CriteriaCMA USAACCA
FocusManagement accounting and financial management.Broad focus on accounting, auditing, tax, and law.
Contentfinancial planning, budgeting, decision support, performance, financial management and analyticsFinancial accounting, auditing, tax, law, financial management.
Exam Structure2 parts: financial reporting, decision-making.13 papers across 3 levels: Applied Knowledge, Applied Skills, Strategic Professional.
Duration1–1.5 years if completed in the first attempt.3–4 years, depending on exemptions and exam pace.
Global RecognitionRecognized in USA, Middle East, and MNCs globally.Recognized in 180+ countries, strong IFRS recognition.
Prerequisites+2 or bachelors degree for attending the exam, and 2 years experience and degree certificate is for certification.10+2 or equivalent. Exemptions for graduates and professionals with relevant qualifications.
Career PathManagement accounting, financial analysis, corporate finance.Auditor, accountant, tax consultant, and financial manager.
Cost$1,500 to $2,500 (including study materials, membership, exams).$2,000 to $3,000 (varies by country; includes tuition, exams).
Targeted RolesMNC’s, accounting, auditing and corporatesAccounting firms, public practice, audit, corporate finance.
Key MarketsUSA, Middle East, multinational corporations.Global, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.