Frequently Asked Questions


1. How do I get my program materials?

    Your program materials will be shipped directly to you approximately two weeks before the first scheduled class.

2. What if I am not located close to a test location?

    Alternate test locations can be arranged upon request.

3. Can I apply before my degree/ prerequisite topics are completed?

    Yes, CMA can conditionally accept applicants who are in the final process of completing their degree and/or CMA prerequisites. Note, an official transcript showing that a degree was conferred and all prerequisite topics were completed will be required in addition to the official transcript required for evaluation.

4. Do I have to be working while in the CMA Foundational Studies Program?

    No, CMA does not require students to be employed throughout the CMA Foundational Studies Program.

5. Can I take the CMA Foundational Studies Program while taking another academic program?

    Yes, but taking the CMA program concurrent with another academic program is strongly discouraged. The CMA program is a graduate-level program requiring a substantial investment of time.

6. What if I have to move while in the program?

    It is discouraged to relocate while enrolled in any component of the CMA program but certainly not impossible. Please contact the CMA office that you wish to relocate to for more information.

7. Can I attend a class if I am a distance-learning student?

    Yes, distance-learning students are permitted to attend classes. Please contact your local CMA Program Coordinator for further details.

8. Is there a maximum number of attempts for the CMA Foundational Studies Program?

    No, CMA does not limit the number of attempts for the CMA Accelerated Program.

9. What if I am a student of the in-class version, but I have to miss a class?

    Missing classes is severely discouraged, but students are provided the program DVDs, which can be watched in lieu of attending class.

10. Can I be exempt from the CMA Foundational Studies Program?

    Yes, applicants who have completed the 16 prerequisite topics as part of their university studies are not required to complete the CMA Accelerated Program. Students who have completed CMA-accredited university accounting programs and select professional accountants are also exempt from the CMA Accelerated Program.

11. I am only missing a few of the 16 prerequisite topics; can I only take those parts of the CMA Foundational Studies Program?

    The CMA program topics cannot be taken a la carte, but our office is able to provide comprehensive preparatory materials for applicants as an alternative for any of the management prerequisite topics listed herein (i.e. the non accounting prerequisites). Applicants will be charged a fee of CAD $250 per topic in Nova Scotia, and PEI and USD $250 in Bermuda.

The management prerequisite topics include the following:

    • Internal Control
    • Strategic Management
    • Operations Management
    • Organizational Behaviour/Human Resources
    • Marketing
    • Information Technology

Please contact out office for more detail or to request the materials.

12. Where are the in-class sessions held?

    The in-class sessions are typically held at Saint Mary’s University (Halifax, Nova Scotia) and, Bermuda College (Bermuda).

13. When can I apply?

We are able to accept applications for the CMA Foundational Studies Program year-round.