Last Verified: 2026-03-01 from official conducting body notifications.
This examination is Stage 2 of 3 in the official professional qualification pathway. Candidates must systematically complete all stages, training modules, and examinations to be admitted into the professional body.
CMA Foundation Passed; Graduate Direct Entry Route
Mandatory 15 months of practical training must be completed before appearing in both or remaining groups of CMA Final
Official Overview & Examination Scope
Purpose, Scope & Academic Impact
The core practical stage of the ICMAI professional curriculum under Syllabus 2022. CMA Intermediate comprises 8 papers across two groups, imparting rigorous knowledge in cost accounting, direct & indirect taxation, operational management, corporate accounting, and financial management. Passing both groups is required to enter CMA Final.
Eligibility Criteria & Academic Qualifications
Exam Pattern & Test Structure
Total: 800 Marks (400 Marks per Group)| Section / Paper | Questions | Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group 1 - Paper 5: Business Laws and Ethics | Descriptive & MCQs | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
| Group 1 - Paper 6: Financial Accounting | Descriptive & MCQs | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
| Group 1 - Paper 7: Direct and Indirect Taxation | Income Tax (50) + GST (50) | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
| Group 1 - Paper 8: Cost Accounting | Core Costing Concepts | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
| Group 2 - Paper 9: Operations Management and Strategic Management | OM (60) + SM (40) | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
| Group 2 - Paper 10: Corporate Accounting and Auditing | Corporate Accounts (50) + Audit (50) | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
| Group 2 - Paper 11: Financial Management and Business Data Analytics | FM (80) + Analytics (20) | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
| Group 2 - Paper 12: Management Accounting | Strategic Decision Making | 100 Marks | 3 Hours |
Combination of descriptive numericals, practical theory, and objective questions. Minimum 40% in each paper and 50% group aggregate required.
Negative Marking Rule: No negative marking
Recommended Preparation Roadmap & Strategy
Cutoff Trends & Score Benchmark
Pass percentage per group typically ranges from 14% to 24%. Exemption granted on scoring 60%+ in any individual paper.
Participating Institutes / Career Pathways
Frequently Asked Questions
What soft skills and computer training are mandatory in CMA Intermediate?
Under Syllabus 2022, students must undergo 140 hours of compulsory computer training, including SAP Finance Power User certification, Microsoft Excel training, and Cambridge University English language certification.
Can I write both groups of CMA Intermediate together?
Yes, students can register and appear for Group 1 and Group 2 simultaneously or separately in different exam terms.
Related Examinations & Pathways
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