The path to obtaining the CMA certification may be different for older candidates, but it is not less feasible or valuable. However, the timing of when one decides to go for such qualifications can be advantageous or disadvantageous in certain ways.
For those who decide to get certified later in their careers, the decision is made with certain advantages, such as vast work experience and connections that can be helpful in the process of certification and in one’s career.
On the other hand, the demands such as having other responsibilities like full-time employment, family, and managing new technological tools may be demanding.
In this article, we will look at the pros and cons of getting certified later in life so that you can make an informed decision.
Advantage or Disadvantage of Getting CMA Later
Work Experience:
The candidates who have been pursuing the CMA qualification for some time are likely to be older and may have accumulated a lot of working experience which can be an added advantage in grasping the practical application of the syllabus.
Relating Theory to Practice: The curriculum of CMA India is more inclined towards the subjects like financial management, cost accounting and the regulatory framework and these subjects become more understandable for those who have already worked in these fields.
It will be easier for a candidate with years of experience in finance or cost management to grasp and apply the theoretical concepts of these topics in business.
Fulfilling the Experience Requirement: Candidates who have been working in cost or management accounting positions for some time are likely to have already met the work experience requirements for the CMA qualification, thus enabling them to focus on passing the exams.
CMA Agility in Learning
Theoretical and Practical Knowledge: The candidates who have been practicing in the finance, accounting or cost management field for several years have good understanding of the basics. This is usually beneficial to them since they are able to grasp concepts better than the younger candidates despite the fact that they may take longer time to assimilate new information.
Learning Techniques: The candidates in the older age group can make use of study schedules and memory enhancement strategies such as spaced repetition, concept mapping or learning through practice tests. There are numerous CMA coaching institutes in India that provide the candidate with the study schedule and guidance to assist the candidate of any age.
Advantage or Disadvantage of Getting CMA Later Networking Opportunities
Networking Opportunities: The candidates who are older, have already built their professional networks and these networks can be useful as they progress in their CMA career. These networks can be used to get a better job, referrals and even mentorship in the career path chosen.
Industry Recognition: The CMA title is well accepted by the leading employers in India such as government organizations, PSUs, and MNCs. In the case of older candidates, the CMA title can help them to gain better recognition and visibility in the market and get a better opportunity to secure senior roles.
Disadvantages of getting CMA certified later
Balancing Career, Family, and Studies:
Time Management: This is especially true for those who have full time jobs and other responsibilities such as taking care of their families. Fresh graduates for instance may have more time to manage as compared to older students who may be working while studying.
However, candidates who are older and in employment, have to be very disciplined and set a proper time table to study while attending to other responsibilities.
Study Support: Most of the older candidates prefer online coaching or weekend classes meant for working candidates. These offer convenience and enable the candidates to study in their own time without having to quit their jobs. The increase in the number of digital learning resources in India has helped the professionals to gain access to quality study materials at their own convenience.
Incapability to adapt Technological Advancements
Over the past few years, there has been a rapid technological development in the accounting profession in India ranging from automation of cost accounting to the online examination. In the case of older candidates, it may be difficult to keep abreast with such changes and may not be very conversant with new tools and platforms.
Adapting to Exam Technology: The CMA exams in India are computer based, which may be a source of initial concern to older candidates who may not be very conversant with computer-based tests. However, the candidates can prepare for it through constant practice with the online mock exams and the use of e-learning platforms.
Final thoughts about Advantage or Disadvantage of Getting CMA:
To sum up, it is possible to state that, getting the CMA title in India in the later period of life has its benefits and drawbacks. Mature candidates are usually advantaged by their wealth of experience in the workplace as they can easily map the theories learnt in class to real life business scenarios.
Their professional connections and reputation in the industry also add to their career advancement, giving them the chance to learn from experienced professionals. Besides, their strong background in finance and accounting may help them better understand the material, although it might take more time to do so.
On the other hand, the older candidates may experience some challenges in balancing between their career, family and studies as well as in adapting to the technological changes in the profession.
However, if time is well managed, learning plans are well developed and online coaching platforms are used, then these challenges can be avoided. In conclusion, age is not a barrier to attaining the CMA title. It is therefore evident that with hard work, flexibility and the right approaches, success is possible at any age.
