The choice depends on your career goals and target location. 

ACCA is ideal if you're seeking global recognition across 180+ countries and want diverse roles in accounting, auditing, and taxation. 

CMA (US) is perfect for those interested in management accounting, strategic planning, and corporate finance, with completion possible in just 6-9 months. 

CPA (US) is best suited for professionals targeting US-based companies or roles in auditing and tax compliance. 

CIMA focuses on management accounting with a strong emphasis on business strategy, making it ideal for corporate finance leadership roles. Consider your industry preference, geographic aspirations, and whether you want broader accounting expertise or specialized management skills when making your decision.​

ACCA: Students need a minimum of 65% aggregate in Mathematics/Accountancy and English, with 50% in other subjects at the 12th standard level. Commerce graduates can claim up to 4-5 exemptions, while CA Inter candidates may receive 6+ exemptions. 

CMA (US): Students can enroll after 12th standard, but a bachelor's degree is required for certification along with 2 years of relevant work experience. 

CPA (US): Requires a bachelor's degree (preferably in accounting/finance) and must meet state-specific education requirements of 120-150 credit hours. 

CIMA: Anyone aged 16+ with 10th standard or O-level qualification can enroll, though graduates receive exemptions. All courses require proficiency in English as exams and study materials are in English.​

ACCA typically takes 1.5-3 years with total fees ranging from ₹3.5-4 lakhs including coaching, registration, and exam fees. Students with exemptions can complete it faster. 

CMA (US) can be completed in just 6-12 months with total costs between ₹1.5-2 lakhs covering IMA membership, exam fees, and study materials. 

CPA (US) takes 12-18 months with costs ranging from ₹2.5-3.5 lakhs including evaluation, exam fees, and training. 

CIMA requires approximately 2.5-3 years with fees between ₹1.5-2 lakhs depending on exemptions. Duration varies based on your study pace, prior qualifications, and whether you're studying full-time or part-time.

ACCA freshers in India can expect starting salaries of ₹4-8 lakhs per annum, with mid-level professionals earning ₹10-20 lakhs and senior positions commanding ₹20-30+ lakhs. At Big 4 firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC), entry-level ACCA professionals earn ₹6-8 lakhs annually. 

CMA (US) holders start at ₹5-7 lakhs per annum, progressing to ₹8-12 lakhs at mid-level and ₹12-20 lakhs+ for senior roles. 

CPA (US) professionals command higher salaries of ₹10-20 lakhs per annum in India, with US-based roles offering $70,000-$130,000+ annually. Salaries vary significantly based on company size, location (metropolitan cities pay more), industry sector, and additional qualifications you may hold.

Yes, all these certifications are globally recognized. 

ACCA is accepted in 180+ countries and opens doors to roles such as Financial Accountant, Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Controller, and positions in Big 4 firms. 

CMA (US) is recognized in 150+ countries with career paths including Management Accountant, Financial Analyst, Budget Analyst, Cost Accountant, and CFO positions. CPA (US) is valid across 55 US jurisdictions and recognized in Canada, Australia, Middle East, and globally for roles in auditing, taxation, SOX compliance, and US GAAP consulting. 

CIMA provides the CGMA designation and is valued for management accounting, business analysis, financial planning, and strategic leadership roles in multinational corporations. All qualifications significantly enhance international career mobility and provide opportunities in MNCs, Big 4 firms, financial institutions, and consulting companies.

ACCA can be started immediately after 12th standard with the required eligibility marks (65% in Accounts/Maths and English). This makes it one of the most accessible global qualifications for commerce students. 

CMA (US) allows enrollment after 12th, but you must complete your bachelor's degree before receiving the final certification. You can appear for exams while pursuing graduation, making it time-efficient. 

CPA (US) requires a bachelor's degree as a mandatory prerequisite—you cannot start without graduation. 

CIMA can be started with just 10th standard or O-level qualification, though 12th pass students get Certificate Level exemptions. At LeAF Academy, we offer comprehensive guidance to help students chart the best path based on their current educational qualifications and career aspirations.