If you are a CMA aspirant in India, 2026 is a critical year. The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) has not only updated the syllabus (hello, 25% Technology weightage!) but also tightened the registration windows.
As a CMA student currently preparing for my own exams in Pune, I know the anxiety of missing a deadline or overpaying for fees due to confusing currency conversions.
Here is the Official 2026 Schedule and everything you need to know to book your slot at Prometric centers in India (Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, etc.).
1. Official US CMA Exam Dates 2026 (India)
The US CMA exam is not held all year round. It happens in three specific "Testing Windows." You must register before the deadline to get a seat. Missing these dates means waiting another 3-4 months.
| Testing Window | First Exam Date | Last Exam Date | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan / Feb 2026 | Jan 1, 2026 | Feb 28, 2026 | Feb 15, 2026 |
| May / June 2026 | May 1, 2026 | June 30, 2026 | June 15, 2026 |
| Sept / Oct 2026 | Sept 1, 2026 | Oct 31, 2026 | Oct 15, 2026 |
NJ’s Pro Tip: Do NOT wait for the deadline! Prometric centers in cities like Pune and Bangalore fill up 3 weeks in advance. If you want a Saturday slot, book at least 45 days early.
2. US CMA Fees in India (2026 Cost Breakdown)
This is where most students get confused. The fees are drastically different for Students (College-goers) versus Professionals (Working). Plus, you have to account for the exchange rate and the 18% GST charged by Indian banks.
🎓 US CMA Cost Estimator (India 2026)
(Usually available in Jan/Jun/Sept)
Fee Breakdown for 2026:
For Students (The Cheapest Way)
Best for: Students enrolled in B.Com, BBA, or MBA at Indian universities.
- IMA Membership: ~$49 / year
- Entrance Fee: ~$225 (One-time)
- Exam Fee: ~$370 per part
- Total Cost (Approx): ₹85,000 – ₹95,000
For Professionals (Working Adults)
Best for: Graduates and working accountants.
- IMA Membership: ~$295 / year
- Entrance Fee: ~$300 (One-time)
- Exam Fee: ~$495 per part
- Total Cost (Approx): ₹1,35,000 – ₹1,50,000
3. The Big 2026 Syllabus Change (Warning!)
If you are using old textbooks from 2024 or 2025, STOP. For the 2026 exams, the IMA has significantly changed Part 1.
- Old Weightage: Technology & Analytics was 15%.
- New 2026 Weightage: Technology & Analytics is now 25%.
What does this mean? You will see more questions on Data Governance, AI in Finance, and Blockchain. You cannot skip this section anymore. If you are weak in IT concepts, focus heavily on Section F of Part 1.
4. How to Reschedule if You Are Not Ready
Life happens. If your preparation isn't 100% by February, you can reschedule, but it costs money.
- 30+ Days Before Exam: FREE Rescheduling.
- 3-30 Days Before Exam: ~$50 Fee.
- Less than 3 Days: No Rescheduling allowed (You lose the full fee).
Final Verdict: Which Window Should You Pick?
- Pick May/June 2026 if you are just starting your study now. This gives you 4 solid months to master the new "Technology" section.
- Pick Sept/Oct 2026 if you are busy with your B.Com semester exams or year-end financial closing at work.
Are you planning to attempt Part 1 or Part 2 this year? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll share my "Part 1 Formula Sheet" with you!