CMA Foundation Eligibility Criteria 2025 & Registration Guide
The CMA Foundation exam is a vital step for aspiring Cost and Management Accountants. Conducted by the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI), it evaluates essential financial and managerial accounting skills. Candidates planning to appear in the 2025 session must understand the registration process, eligibility requirements, and key deadlines.
This article provides an in-depth guide on CMA Foundation Eligibility Criteria 2025, important dates, and How To Register for CMA Foundation. Let’s explore the details to ensure a smooth registration process.
Overview of CMA Foundation Exam 2025
ICMAI conducts the CMA Foundation exam twice a year, in June and December. This exam acts as a gateway for candidates aiming to pursue a career in cost and management accounting. To qualify, students must have passed their Class 12 board exams from a recognized institution. Successfully clearing the CMA Foundation exam allows students to progress to the Intermediate level.
CMA Foundation Eligibility Criteria 2025
Before applying, candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements. Below are the key criteria:
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Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed Class 10 and Class 12 from a recognized board. A minimum of 50% marks in Class 12 is required for general category applicants.
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Age Limit: There is no age restriction for candidates applying for the CMA Foundation exam.
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Exemptions: Candidates who have already cleared the Foundation level of ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India) or ICSI (Institute of Company Secretaries of India) are exempt from appearing for the CMA Foundation exam.
Important Dates for CMA Foundation Registration 2025
Timely registration ensures a well-structured preparation plan. Here are the key deadlines for 2025:
Particulars | CMA Foundation Dec 2025 | CMA Foundation June 2026 |
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Registration Last Date | July 31, 2025 | January 31, 2026 |
Exam Form Submission (Without Late Fee) | September 30, 2025 | March 31, 2026 |
Exam Form Submission (With Late Fee) | October 10, 2025 | April 10, 2026 |
Exam Date | To be announced | To be announced |
CMA Foundation Exam Fee 2025
Understanding the fee structure helps candidates plan their finances. Below are the details:
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Indian Students: INR 6,000
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Foreign Students: USD 250
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Late Fee: INR 500 (if the exam form is submitted after the deadline)
Candidates can pay the fee through debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI.
How To Register for CMA Foundation
To complete the CMA Foundation registration, follow these steps:
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Visit the Official Website: Go to ICMAI’s official website and navigate to the registration section.
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Create an Account: Sign up using a valid email ID and mobile number.
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Fill Out the Application Form: Enter personal details, educational qualifications, and other required information.
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Upload Necessary Documents: Ensure all documents are attested before uploading.
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Pay the Registration Fee: Choose a suitable payment method and complete the transaction.
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Download the Confirmation Receipt: Save and print the confirmation page for future reference.
Required Documents for CMA Foundation Registration 2025
Candidates need to upload the following documents during registration:
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Attested copy of Class 10 certificate
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Attested copy of Class 12 mark sheet
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Three passport-sized photographs
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Documents attested by an authorized person (ICAI, ICSI, ICMAI members, MPs, MLAs, or college principals)
Exam Pattern and Preparation Tips
The CMA Foundation exam consists of four papers:
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Fundamentals of Economics and Management
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Fundamentals of Accounting
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Fundamentals of Laws and Ethics
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Fundamentals of Business Mathematics and Statistics
Each paper carries 100 marks, and the exam is conducted in an online mode. To prepare effectively:
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Develop a study plan covering all subjects.
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Solve previous years’ question papers.
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Take mock tests to improve time management.
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Stay updated with ICMAI notifications.
Conclusion
Understanding CMA Foundation Eligibility Criteria 2025 is essential for a seamless registration process. By following the registration steps, ensuring timely submission of documents, and preparing efficiently, candidates can enhance their chances of success. Now that you know How To Register for CMA Foundation, begin your journey towards becoming a Cost and Management Accountant today!