Choosing between ACCA or CMA is a common dilemma for students and professionals in the commerce field. Both qualifications open doors to global career opportunities in accounting, finance, and management.
But the question remains: ACCA or CMA, which is tougher?
In this blog, we’ll explore the structure, syllabus, difficulty level, and student experiences for both qualifications to help you decide which might be more challenging. Whether you’re a commerce student, a working professional, or a career switcher, this guide is tailored for you.
What are ACCA and CMA?
ACCA (Association of ChKey Differences: ACCA or CMA?artered Certified Accountants)
ACCA is a UK-based global accounting qualification that equips you for roles in auditing, financial reporting, taxation, and business strategy. It includes 13 exams, a mandatory Ethics and Professional Skills module, and 3 years of relevant work experience.
ACCA is ideal for those looking to build a long-term international career in finance and compliance.
CMA (Certified Management Accountant) USA
CMA USA is offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) and is focused on management accounting, financial strategy, and decision-making. The course has 2 parts, covering strategic financial management, risk analysis, performance management, and internal controls.
If you’re interested in corporate finance and working in MNCs, CMA is a solid choice.
Key Differences : ACCA or CMA
| Feature | ACCA | CMA USA |
|---|---|---|
|
Origin |
United Kingdom |
United States |
|
Focus Area |
Global accounting, audit, tax |
Management accounting, corporate finance |
|
No. of Exams |
13 papers |
2 parts |
|
Duration |
2.5 to 3 years |
8 months to 1.5 years |
|
Career Path |
Audit firms, global finance |
MNCs, corporate finance, internal roles |
ACCA covers a broader spectrum of accounting practices, while CMA dives deep into strategic financial planning.
What Makes CMA Tough?
Now let’s explore the CMA side of the ACCA or CMA, which is a tough comparison:
Conceptual Depth
CMA doesn’t have many exams, but each part includes intense topics like budgeting, internal controls, financial analysis, and strategic decision-making.
Real-World Application
CMA exams test your ability to apply concepts to real-world business problems, especially in performance management and risk assessment.
Essay Questions
Each exam includes two essay-type scenarios where you must write structured, insightful responses. These test both your knowledge and communication skills.
Time Pressure
With 100 MCQs in 3 hours and 2 essays in 1 hour, time management is crucial. This can be especially tough for students unfamiliar with US-style exams.
Student Experiences: ACCA or CMA—Which Feels Tougher?
Student feedback offers valuable insight when deciding between ACCA and CMA, which is tough:
- ACCA students often mention the difficulty of juggling so many papers, especially while working or studying full-time. The time commitment and variety of topics can feel overwhelming.
- CMA students, while relieved by the fewer exams, highlight the high pressure of performing well in just two attempts within a strict time window. The analytical nature of the exam is a major hurdle.
If you struggle with consistent study over a long period, CMA might suit you better. But if you prefer to build your knowledge gradually across various topics, ACCA could be more manageable.
ACCA or CMA: Which Is Tougher? Final Verdict
When it comes to the ultimate question—ACCA or CMA, which is tough—there’s no right answer.
Here’s a balanced take:
- ACCA may appear tougher due to its longer duration, greater number of exams, and additional requirements like work experience and ethics training.
- CMA, though shorter, is intensely analytical, and requires a strong conceptual base and excellent time management.
Both are rigorous, respected qualifications with excellent global recognition. The “toughness” depends on your background, goals, and learning style.
Tips to Succeed in ACCA or CMA
Tips for CMA USA
- Understand Concepts Deeply rote learning. CMA exams reward real understanding.
- Practice MCQs and Essays on past papers and time-bound practice tests.
- Stick to a Study Plan—A consistent routine is key, especially with the 3-year completion requirement.
Tips for ACCA
- Start with a Strong Foundation – Master basic accounting concepts before tackling advanced papers.
- Plan for All 13 Papers – Strategically schedule exams to balance workload.
- Use Approved Study Resources – Follow ACCA-approved books and learning partners.
ACCA or CMA?
So, ACCA or CMA, which is tougher? It depends on you.
- If you want a long-term, all-around accounting qualification and are ready to commit 3 years to learning and experience, ACCA is worth the effort.
- If you’re seeking a faster, focused path to management accounting roles and are confident in your analytical and communication skills, CMA USA is the way to go.
No matter which you choose, both ACCA and CMA are globally respected, highly employable, and financially rewarding certifications.
Yes, CMA USA is recognized in countries like India, UAE, Canada, and Singapore. It holds great value in multinational companies and shared services.
- A bachelor’s degree (any stream) from an accredited university
- 2 years in financial or management accounting (can be completed post-exam)
- Must become a member of the IMA to register and get certified
- MCQs: 100 questions (3 hours) – 75% weight
- Essays: 2 scenario-based essays (1 hour) – 25% weight
Passing Score: Minimum 360 out of 500 per part
Absolutely. ACCA is accepted in over 180 countries, including India, the UK, UAE, Singapore, and more. Employers, especially MNCs and the Big 4, actively recruit ACCA-qualified professionals.
Yes, students can directly enroll in ACCA after completing their 12th grade with a commerce or mathematics background. It’s a great career path for those looking to start early.
