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Top 5 Reasons to Become an FMAA

Top 5 reasons to become an FMAA.

The Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate (FMAA) certification from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) Opens in new window sets you up with the knowledge and skills needed to begin a career in accounting or finance. Keep reading to learn the top five reasons to become an FMAA and how earning this certification can help you chart a course to a rewarding career.

1. Build confidence in foundational accounting and finance topics

The topics tested on the FMAA exam ensure you understand key accounting and finance concepts.

The FMAA exam tests you on:

  • General accounting and financial management
  • Financial statement preparation and analysis
  • Planning and budgeting
  • Cost management and performance metrics
  • Professional ethics

Preparing for and passing the exam helps you solidify your understanding of these foundational topics and builds your confidence in applying the concepts. No matter which direction you ultimately take your accounting career, mastering the fundamentals will help you get there.

2. Develop skills you’ll use throughout your career

The concepts you learn for the exam will help equip you to:

  • Prepare financial statements
  • Analyze financial data
  • Manage budgets effectively
  • Understand ethical considerations

The skills you’ll gain from earning your FMAA will help you approach the real-world situations you’ll encounter in your career. The earlier you begin connecting your knowledge to practical applications, the bigger your head start will be when you enter the workforce and start competing for entry-level positions in accounting and finance.

3. Distinguish yourself from your peers

Having a certification sets you apart from other professionals, especially in the job market. The FMAA can help give you the edge you need to secure an interview or job offer. Employers often look for candidates who have shown initiative in professional development, and the FMAA signals your commitment to growth.

This is especially true for students. Entering the workforce with a certification already under your belt shows potential employers that you’re a motivated go-getter. 

4. It’s achievable and low-cost

The FMAA is designed to be accessible to students and entry-level professionals looking to advance their careers. The FMAA is only a single exam with 80 multiple-choice questions, and only 50 hours of study time is recommended. Other exams, like the CPA and CMA, have multiple exam parts you have to take separately and often require over 100 hours of study time. 

With other professional certifications, you may spend thousands of dollars to get certified, but the FMAA is a budget-friendly option for those looking to earn a credential without breaking the bank. IMA charges only $299 to take the FMAA exam, and you can study with our FMAA Test Prep for $199. 

5. Establish a path to additional certifications

Becoming an FMAA opens the door to many other career opportunities. You can use it as a stepping stone to earn additional accounting certifications, like the CMA or CPA, which test several of the topics you’ll learn from the FMAA at a deeper level of understanding and application.

These certifications deepen your expertise and increase your marketability in the fields of accounting and finance, which increases your salary potential.

Ready to become an FMAA?

Whether you’re just starting out in your career or you’re considering a career switch into the accounting or finance industry, the FMAA is a great way to learn the fundamentals. Get an in-depth breakdown of the steps to become an FMAA on our page: About the FMAA Certification. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, check out our FMAA Test Prep, designed to ensure you pass the FMAA exam on your first try so you can start reaping the career benefits.