CMA Salary: How Much Do Certified Management Accountants Make?
Last Update On 9th April 2025
Duration: 5 Mins Read
Certified Management Accounting (CMA) is a trending and highly demanded course that opens exciting opportunities in the field of management accountancy. After the pandemic, companies increasingly recognized the importance of having a CMA who can predict market trends, analyze budgets and expenditures, and track the company’s financial performance. CMAs are not just strategic thinkers but also strategic planners who manage financial data and guide companies with informed insights. With these valuable skill sets, CMAs are in high demand across various corporations and innovative startups. Wondering how much US CMAs earn across different countries? Let’s dive into the salary breakdown for US CMAs in Dubai, Canada, and the US
There are two types of CMA courses: one specific to India and another that is US-based and globally accepted. The Cost & Management Accounting course is India-specific, while the Certified Management Accounting course is a US-based certification recognized worldwide.
What is CMA?
A Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a globally recognized certification offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), USA. CMAs are experts in financial management, accounting, and strategic decision-making. They play a crucial role in guiding companies by analyzing financial data, creating budgets, and ensuring proper financial planning.
Roles and Responsibilities of a CMA
- Financial Planning and Analysis: CMAs assist in developing financial plans, budgets, and projections for business strategy.
- Cost Management: They track and manage the company’s costs, ensuring efficient use of resources.
- Risk Management: CMAs help identify and mitigate financial risks within the organization.
- Financial Reporting: They prepare accurate financial reports that assist management in making informed decisions.
Types of CMA Courses
Cost & Management Accounting (India-specific)
This course is tailored for individuals looking to pursue a career in cost and management accounting in India. It focuses on Indian accounting standards, tax laws, and the overall financial landscape in India.
Certified Management Accounting (US-based, globally accepted)
The US CMA certification is recognized globally and is ideal for professionals aiming to work with international corporations. It covers global financial management practices, strategic decision-making, and organizational financial performance management.
CMA Salary in India
CMA Monthly Salary in India
The US CMA salary in India varies based on experience, location, and industry. On average, a fresh CMA can expect to earn between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 per month. With more experience, this figure can rise significantly.
Minimum Salary Package of a CMA Fresher in India
For freshers, the salary typically starts at around ₹3.5 LPA to ₹4 LPA. However, as they gain experience and build a strong portfolio, the salary can quickly increase.
CMA Salary Based on Experience
Experience plays a vital role in determining a CMA’s salary across different countries. As CMAs gain more experience and enhance their skills, their earning potential increases significantly.
CMA Salary in India (Experience-Based)
- Entry-Level (Freshers): ₹3.5 LPA to ₹4 LPA
- Mid-Level (5-7 Years): ₹6 LPA to ₹8 LPA
- Senior-Level (10+ Years): ₹12 LPA and above
CMA Salary in Canada
- Entry-Level: $40,000 to $50,000
- Mid-Level: $60,000 to $75,000
- Senior-Level: $85,000 and above
CMA Salary in Dubai
- Entry-Level: AED 80,000 to AED 120,000
- Mid-Level: AED 150,000 to AED 200,000
- Senior-Level: AED 250,000 and above
CMA Salary in the United States
- Entry-Level: $60,000 to $75,000
- Mid-Level: $80,000 to $95,000
- Senior-Level: $105,000 and above
Average CMA Salary in Private Companies
CMA salaries in private companies vary based on the industry, the size of the company, and the geographic location. On average, CMAs in private companies can earn between ₹8 LPA and ₹18 LPA.
CMA Annual Package in Government Jobs
In government roles, CMAs typically earn a salary ranging from ₹6 LPA to ₹10 LPA, depending on the position and the department they work in.
Average CMA Salary in Other Countries
The CMA salary in countries like the Philippines, the UK, and Australia may differ. Here’s a general look at the average salary in some countries:
- Philippines: $11,000 annually
- United Kingdom: £40,000 to £50,000 annually
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Factors Influencing CMA Salaries
Several factors influence the salary of a Certified Management Accountant. These include:
Location
The location of the job plays a significant role in salary differences. CMAs working in developed countries or financial hubs like the US, Canada, and Dubai tend to earn higher salaries than those in developing countries.
Job Profiles
The specific role you take up after becoming a CMA can greatly influence your salary. Roles such as Financial Manager, Cost Accountant, and Internal Auditor typically earn more than roles such as Accountants or Bookkeepers.
Industry
The industry you work in also plays a critical role. Industries such as healthcare, technology, banking & finance, and eCommerce offer higher pay packages to CMAs due to the complexity and demand for financial expertise.
CMA Salary in Various Job Roles
A CMA’s salary also varies based on the specific job role. Here’s a breakdown of CMA salaries by job profile:
- Financial Analyst: ₹5 LPA to ₹12 LPA
- Cost Accountant: ₹4 LPA to ₹10 LPA
- Finance Manager: ₹10 LPA to ₹20 LPA
- Internal Auditor: ₹8 LPA to ₹15 LPA
CMA Salary in Different Cities in India
The salary of a CMA can also vary depending on the city they work in. CMAs in metro cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore tend to earn more than those in smaller cities. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Mumbai: ₹8 LPA to ₹15 LPA
- Delhi: ₹6 LPA to ₹12 LPA
- Bangalore: ₹7 LPA to ₹14 LPA
Industries Where CMAs Can Work
CMAs have opportunities in various industries, including:
- Healthcare
- Technology
- Food & Beverage
- eCommerce
- Beauty
- Telecom
- Banking & Finance
Each of these industries offers distinct roles and salary packages for CMAs, and choosing the right industry can be crucial for higher earnings.
Top Companies Hiring CMAs in India
Some top companies that frequently hire CMAs in India include:
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
- Accenture
- PwC
Companies in CMA Campus Placement 2022
Many top companies actively recruit CMAs through campus placement programs. Companies like EY, Wipro, and Infosys are known for their campus recruitment drives targeting CMAs.
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Conclusion
The CMA qualification opens a wide range of career opportunities and offers excellent earning potential, both in India and internationally. While salaries vary based on factors such as location, experience, and job role, the overall outlook for CMAs is promising. By pursuing this qualification, you can position yourself for a lucrative and rewarding career in management accountancy.
At Zell Education, we provide comprehensive coaching to help you prepare for the CMA exams. Our expert trainers guide you through every aspect of the CMA certification process, preparing you for a successful career in finance and accounting.
FAQs on CMA Salary
Which country pays the highest salary to US CMAs?
As per available data, the highest salaries for US CMAs are in the UK, followed by the USA and Canada.
In how many countries is the US CMA course accepted?
The US CMA course is recognized in many countries, including India, China, the UK, Canada, and various Middle Eastern nations.
Which country offers the highest opportunities to US CMAs?
The UAE offers the highest number of opportunities for US CMAs due to the presence of several international corporations that require expert financial managers.
How popular are CMAs in India?
The CMA qualification is becoming increasingly popular in India as more businesses realize the value of certified management accountants in strategic decision-making.
How does one become a CMA in India?
To become a CMA in India, you need to enroll in the Cost and Management Accounting course offered by the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI) and pass the necessary exams.