Becoming a Certified Management Accountant requires a serious commitment, but if you’re looking for a CMA course, you probably know that. 58% of candidates report that this one change led them to a higher salary increase and 3 out of 4 reported professional growth. One of the most important parts of getting the CMA designation is choosing one of the best CMA review courses on the market.
So, where does the CMA Exam Academy rank?
To be direct – fourth.
As an exam prep expert, I’ve sifted through tons of CMA courses and ranked them. Although this CMA prep course provider is fourth on my list and topped by a few other CMA prep courses, I still recommend it for some candidates.
Keep reading to find out who can use this review course to pass the CMA exam and which Certified Management Accountants might want to pass on this provider.
Key Takeaways
- Personalized Coaching and Structured Plan: CMA Exam Academy excels in offering 99 hours of personalized coaching alongside a rigorous 16-week structured study plan, ensuring candidates receive tailored support and clear guidance throughout their preparation.
- Time and Flexibility: The 16-week program requires a considerable time commitment and has a fixed schedule, which may not suit candidates who need more flexibility or cannot dedicate the required time weekly.
- Comprehensive Resources: Candidates gain access to an extensive library of over 4,000 practice questions, detailed essay questions, and multimedia learning materials including digital and printed textbooks.
- Cost Considerations: The comprehensive nature of the course and personalized coaching come with a higher price tag, which may be a deterrent for some candidates looking for more economical options.
- Solid Option with Stronger Alternatives: While CMA Exam Academy offers robust coaching and comprehensive resources, it’s important to note that it ranks fourth in our analysis. There are several other CMA prep courses that may provide better value or fit depending on individual learning styles and budget considerations.
Overview of CMA Exam Academy Review Course Options
Nathan Liao created the CMA Exam Academy’s 16-week Accelerator Program, which is structured to provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience for CMA candidates. At the program’s core are 99 hours of personalized one-on-one coaching with certified CMA coaches tailored to address individual queries and strategic exam preparation.
This is complemented by unlimited email support with round-the-clock access to assistance whenever needed.
Key aspects of the program include:
- Weekly Accountability Check-ins: Regular emails and assignments keep students on track with their personalized study plans.
- Step-by-Step Learning Modules: Carefully planned weekly modules cover essential topics to ensure comprehensive syllabus coverage.
- High-Definition Video and Audio Lectures: These cover every topic on the CMA exam. They’re supplemented by interactive whiteboard explainer videos that break down complex concepts into easy-to-understand segments.
- Extensive Question Test Bank and Detailed Essay Questions: Candidates gain access to over 4,000 practice questions and more than 35 essay scenarios with model answers, which is crucial for thorough exam preparation.
Additional resources that this CMA Exam Academy review includes:
- Printed and Digital Textbooks: Covering 100% of the ICMA Learning Outcome Statements, available in both formats to cater to different study preferences.
- In-Person Exam Rehearsal: A practical session at a Prometric site to simulate the real exam environment.
- Formula Guides and Additional Resources: Essential formulas are provided in PDF format for quick reference when using a CMA exam review course.
Individual Study Tools Offered by CMA Exam Academy
CMA Exam Academy provides the flexibility to purchase some of its study tools separately, catering to various learning needs and preferences. Here’s an overview of the offerings that can be acquired individually to enhance your CMA exam preparation.
CMA Textbook Combo (Part 1 and Part 2)
Price: Originally $399, now discounted to $147 (63% OFF)
These textbooks are essential for mastering the broad accounting topics covered in both parts of the CMA exam. Written by experts, they are designed to be accessible whether you have an accounting background or not, ensuring comprehensive coverage and a high pass rate among students.
Test Bank Combo (CMA Exam Questions Parts 1 & 2)
Price: Originally $699, now $297 (58% OFF)
The Test Bank Combo includes over 4,000 multiple-choice questions with answers, 27 essay simulations, and a mock exam mode. This tool is vital for familiarizing yourself with the exam format and focusing your study efforts efficiently.
On-Demand CMA Video Lectures (Part 1 & Part 2)
Subscription: $49/month; cancel anytime
Access video lectures on-demand to supplement your review course. These include complete video and audio (mp3) review lectures, whiteboard explainer videos, and a mobile app with iOS & Android flashcards, allowing for flexible and comprehensive study.
Professional CMA Tutoring | Live 1-on-1 Private Instruction
Price: Normally $198/hour, now $69/hour (65% OFF)
Engage in live, personalized tutoring sessions via Zoom. These 60-minute sessions are scheduled at your convenience, covering any topic you choose with experienced and vetted CMA tutors.
Ultimate CMA Formula Guide Combo (Part 1 and Part 2)
Price: Originally $89, now $37 (58% OFF)
This guide includes all the crucial formulas needed for the exam. The handy PDF format makes memorizing these formulas easier, ensuring you’re well-prepared for calculation-based questions.
CMA Audio Review Mastery Combo (Parts One and Two)
Price: Originally $398, now $97 (76% OFF)
Convert your commute or workout into productive study time with audio lectures covering every topic of the CMA exam. These comprehensive lectures cater to auditory learners and those looking to use their time efficiently.
“There is a guy. His name is Nathan and he named his entity as CMA Exam Academy. I just bought his books he published. So far they are clear and good enough. Let me know guys if you are studying to CMA exam like me. And Good Luck!”
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Pros
- Personalized Coaching and Support: The crown jewel of this CMA review course is its personalized coaching. Each candidate benefits from one-on-one coaching calls, unlimited support via email, and weekly progress check-ins. This high level of individual attention is complemented by an approach that focuses not just on passing the exam but also on mastering the content, which can significantly enhance long-term career prospects in management accounting.
- Structured Study Plan: If you don’t like structure, a CMA Academy program isn’t going to be for you. Nathan and his team provide a clear, step-by-step study plan that divides an otherwise overwhelming syllabus into manageable weekly segments. This methodical arrangement is designed to maximize retention and understanding, which are crucial for exam-day success. The structured plan is especially beneficial for those who may feel overwhelmed by the vast amount of content to be covered and want someone to tell you what and when to study. If, on the other hand, you prefer a lot of flexibility, you might want to invest in a different CMA review course.
- Solid Learning Materials: CMA Exam Academy does not skimp on materials. Certified Management Accountant candidates receive exhaustive video lectures, a vast test bank of over 4,000 questions, and more than 35 essay questions. These resources are complemented by both printed and digital textbooks that are regularly updated to reflect the CMA exam’s evolving nature. One thing I really love about this CMA exam review is the inclusion of an Accounting Fundamentals textbook, which supports candidates who may need a refresher on basic concepts.
- Additional Value-Added Services: The CMA Exam Academy offers other perks, such as free global shipping, an in-person exam rehearsal, and a year’s subscription to continuing professional education (CPE)—enhancements that underscore the program’s value. These additional services are tangible benefits that make you feel like you’re getting more than just prep materials while working toward your CMA designation.
Cons
- High Initial Investment: CMA Exam Academy’s main package is $1,900 but is currently discounted down to $1,600. Although this is not the most expensive plan on the CMA market when compared to more budget-friendly alternatives like Surgent, the price can be a con. The CMA Exam Academy does offer a four-part payment plan to ease the financial burden, but the initial cost is still significant.
- Intensive Time Commitment: The 16-week CMA Exam Academy review demands a significant time investment, which may be challenging for those juggling full-time jobs or other commitments. This intensive commitment is required to cover the extensive course materials thoroughly. Still, it may deter potential candidates who need to finish sooner than four months or on some other kind of time crunch.
- Limited Flexibility: The rigid structure, with its scheduled weekly modules and assignments, might not appeal to everyone. Those preferring a self-paced, flexible study schedule may find this format restrictive. While the structured approach aids in comprehensive coverage and systematic learning, it does not accommodate varying personal schedules or learning speeds, which can be a critical drawback for some learners. If you need CMA prep, where you’re fully in control of your study schedule, you might look to another review program instead.
CMA Exam Academy Review
CMA Course Comparisons
Becker vs. CMA Exam Academy
Becker’s pricing is on the higher end, ranging from $1,599 to $2,199, but it offers resources, including over 4,000 practice questions and 76 SkillBuilder videos. Their comprehensive support system through phone, email, and chat, along with a money-back guarantee, provides great value. While the CMA Exam Academy review focuses on personalized coaching and structured study plans, Becker’s extensive resource library and broad support options make it a more attractive choice for those who prefer a wealth of study materials and multiple support channels.
Surgent vs. CMA Exam Academy
Surgent’s courses range from $699 to $1,299 and include over 55 video lectures. Surgent stands out with its adaptive learning technology, offering a customized learning experience that adjusts to the candidate’s performance and pace. Both Surgent and CMA Exam Academy offer money-back guarantees and standard support options. However, Surgent’s lower price point and innovative technology generally make it a better option for students seeking a flexible, technology-driven study approach compared to CMA Exam Academy’s more traditional and structured program.
UWorld vs. CMA Exam Academy
UWorld’s CMA review course stands out with its extensive library of over 6,100 practice questions and more than 49 hours of video lectures, catering to students who prefer a wealth of self-study materials. However, the lack of clear information on support and guarantees may leave some learners seeking more structured help at a disadvantage. In contrast, CMA Exam Academy excels in providing personalized coaching and a well-defined study plan, making it the better option for those who benefit from guided learning and regular feedback, ensuring a more tailored and supportive approach to CMA exam preparation.
Gleim vs. CMA Exam Academy
Gleim is favored for its comprehensive approach, offering over 3,000 practice questions and extensive video content. This makes it ideal for self-motivated learners who value a rich array of study materials and robust support channels. On the other hand, CMA Exam Academy focuses on delivering structured and personalized educational experiences through its detailed coaching sessions and step-by-step study modules. This makes it particularly appealing to candidates who need more direct guidance and accountability, providing a focused path to success on the CMA exam.
Bottom Line
In wrapping up my review of the CMA Exam Academy, I find that it offers a strong program ideally suited for those who benefit from structured guidance. The personalized coaching, detailed study plans, and comprehensive materials prepare candidates effectively for the CMA exam. However, its high price and the demanding nature of the program may not appeal to everyone, particularly those seeking flexibility or a lower-cost option.
Ultimately, if the Academy’s style matches your learning preferences and the cost fits your budget, it’s definitely worth considering for your CMA preparation. Your decision should carefully weigh your individual needs, financial situation, and learning style.
FAQ
Yes, the CMA Exam Academy is worth considering for its structured approach and personalized coaching. It offers detailed study plans, HD video lectures, and direct access to experienced coaches, making it ideal for candidates who prefer a guided and well-supported preparation journey.
The best CMA exam prep course depends on individual needs. Surgent CMA Review and Becker’s CMA Review are excellent choices for comprehensive support and adaptive learning. For a more personalized and structured approach, the CMA Exam Academy stands out, especially for those who benefit from intensive coaching and structured study modules.
Yes, the CMA exam is challenging, requiring a thorough understanding of management accounting, corporate finance, and strategic decision-making. Candidates must master both multiple-choice and essay questions, emphasizing both knowledge and application skills in real-world scenarios.
The difficulty between CMA and CPA exams varies depending on one’s accounting background. The CMA focuses more on management accounting and finance, potentially making it more challenging for those without a strong accounting background. In contrast, the CPA covers a broader range of topics. Both require significant study and preparation, with the CMA demanding a deep focus on management-oriented topics.
A CMA Coach plays a pivotal role in guiding candidates through the complexities of the CMA exam preparation. Working closely with a CMA Coach provides you with tailored advice, strategic study planning, and ongoing motivation to ensure you stay on track. A coach can also help clarify difficult concepts, refine your test-taking strategies, and offer feedback on practice exams. Engaging with a CMA Coach is especially beneficial for candidates who thrive on guided learning and need regular accountability to pass the CMA exams successfully.
Wiley CMA Review was once a popular option for CMA exam preparation, and it is known for its comprehensive materials and structured approach. However, it’s important to note that Wiley CMA Review has been sold to another company and is no longer available as a standalone course option. Candidates looking for CMA exam preparation materials should consider other current providers such as Becker, Surgent, Gleim, or CMA Exam Academy to ensure they are receiving up-to-date and effective study resources.
Mock exams and detailed answer explanations are crucial components of the best CMA prep courses, including those offered by providers like Becker CMA. These features help ensure that candidates practice under conditions similar to the actual CMA exams and understand the reasoning behind each question. Mock exams and exam simulations provide a realistic gauge of readiness, while detailed answer explanations enhance learning by clarifying why answers are correct or incorrect. Access to high-quality CMA study materials, including these features, is essential for thorough exam preparation and success.
