NorthStarAcademy

NorthStar Academy Provides Live interactive classes for Students & Working professionals for CMA USA, CPA, ACCA, FRM, CFA and Shorterm Finance Courses.

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5 Finance Jobs AI Can’t Replace 🤖💼

AI is transforming finance… but some careers still need human intelligence.

Here are 5 finance jobs that are still future-proof:

✔️ Chief Financial Officer ✔️ Investment Banker ✔️ Financial Analyst ✔️ Risk Manager ✔️ Financial Advisor

Why?

Because AI can automate tasks — but it cannot replace:

• Leadership • Strategy • Human psychology • Trust-building • Decision-making under pressure

The future belongs to finance professionals who combine technology with human judgement.

Want to build a strong finance career in 2026? Start learning industry-recognized finance courses with NorthStar Academy

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Confused After 12th? 🤔

These Courses Can Help You Enter Big 4 & Global Finance Careers

Not everyone needs to follow the same career path after 12th. Today, global finance certifications are creating amazing opportunities for commerce students.

✨ Top Courses to Explore:

📌 US CPA – Best for Audit & Taxation 💰 Salary: ₹8–12 LPA

📌 ACCA – Global Accounting Qualification 💰 Salary: ₹9–11 LPA

📌 CMA USA – Management Accounting & FP&A 💰 Salary: ₹7–9 LPA

📌 CFA – Investment Banking & Portfolio Management 💰 Salary: ₹9–12 LPA

📌 FRM – Risk Management & Banking 💰 Salary: ₹6–9 LPA

📌 CFP – Wealth Management & Financial Advisory 💰 Salary: ₹4–10 LPA

📌 CAIA – Alternative Investments & Hedge Funds 💰 Salary: ₹8–15 LPA

📌 CIMA – Strategy & Management Accounting 💰 Salary: ₹6–10 LPA

📌 CFE – Fraud & Forensic Auditing 💰 Salary: ₹5–8 LPA

🚀 Your career doesn’t depend only on degrees anymore. Skill-based global certifications are helping students build international careers faster than ever.

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5 CMA USA Myths That Are Holding Commerce Students Back

A lot of commerce students delay CMA USA because of things they’ve heard — not facts.

Let’s clear it up:

👉 “CMA is only for accountants” Not true. It’s about strategy, finance, analytics, and decision-making.

👉 “It’s extremely difficult” It’s just 2 exams. Many finish it in 12–18 months.

👉 “Not many job opportunities” CMA professionals work in global companies and finance teams worldwide.

👉 “Only useful abroad” Nope. Demand in India is growing fast, especially in MNCs.

👉 “Slow salary growth” Actually, CMA can lead to high-growth roles and leadership positions.

✨ Bottom line: If you want a global finance career, CMA USA is way more practical than most people think.

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Top 20 Finance Certifications That Can Boost Your Salary

Here are 20 highly valuable finance certifications professionals pursue globally:

Accounting Certifications

Chartered Accountant (CA)

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

ACCA

CMA

Investment & Finance Certifications

CFA

FRM

CAIA

CMT

Corporate Finance Certifications

FP&A

CTP

CGMA

Audit & Risk Certifications

CIA

CISA

CFE

Specialized Certifications

Enrolled Agent (EA)

CFP

FMVA

Advanced Financial Modeler

Certified Fund Specialist

These certifications can help professionals build careers in accounting, investment banking, financial analysis, risk management, and corporate finance.

Want to build a global finance career with certifications like CMA, CPA, ACCA, CFA, or EA?

Learn more here: 👉 https://northstaracad.com

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US CPA Course: Eligibility & Exam Overview

The US CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is a globally recognised accounting certification that helps professionals build careers in Big Four firms, MNCs, and international finance roles.

CPA Eligibility

Most US state boards require:

✔ Bachelor’s degree in commerce or accounting ✔ 120–150 credit hours of education ✔ Additional coursework in some cases

CPA Exam Structure

Core Sections

AUD – Auditing

FAR – Financial Accounting

REG – Regulation

Choose One Discipline

BAR – Business Analysis

ISC – Information Systems

TCP – Tax Compliance

Each section is 4 hours long, and the passing score is 75.

If you want to understand the complete step-by-step CPA enrolment process, read the detailed guide:

👉 How to Do the US CPA Course: Steps to Enroll & Get Certified

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AI + Accounting = The New Finance Career (2026)

Accounting is changing faster than ever.

AI tools now handle: ✨ bookkeeping ✨ reconciliations ✨ audit sampling ✨ financial analysis

So… are accountants becoming obsolete?

Not at all.

What AI Actually Changed

Old Accounting → Data entry New Accounting → Business strategy

Accountants today act as:

Advisors

Analysts

Decision-makers

Career Impact

💼 CPA → Compliance & AI audit specialist 🌍 ACCA → Global reporting expert 📊 CMA → Strategic finance analyst

Technology didn’t remove jobs — it upgraded them.

Skills Winning in 2026

✔ Data analytics ✔ Cloud accounting ✔ AI tools ✔ Business intelligence ✔ Strategic thinking

Finance + Technology = Future Career Security.

The Reality

AI handles numbers. Humans handle decisions.

Accounting careers are becoming more strategic, global, and high-paying.

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ACCA vs US CPA — Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re an Indian commerce student confused between ACCA and US CPA, you’re not alone.

Both certifications lead to strong careers in accounting and finance, but they serve different purposes.

ACCA

UK-based global qualification

Recognised in 180+ countries

Covers finance, audit, taxation & consulting

Best for international career opportunities

US CPA

American accounting certification

Focuses on US GAAP & US Tax

Highly valued by Big 4 firms

Faster course completion

📊 Career Difference

ACCA → Global finance & consulting roles

CPA → US taxation & audit roles

💰 Salary in India

ACCA: ₹3–15 LPA

CPA: ₹5–7 LPA (entry level)

👉 Simple Decision

Want global exposure? Choose ACCA.

Want US accounting expertise? Choose CPA.

Both certifications are powerful — your career goal should decide your path.

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CMA Career Scope in Global Corporations

CMA is no longer just about costing.

In global companies, management accountants work closely with business teams to drive strategy, improve profitability, and support expansion decisions.

Common roles include:

✔ FP&A Analyst ✔ Business Finance Partner ✔ Cost Controller ✔ Strategy Analyst

What employers value:

Financial analysis skills

Forecasting and planning

ERP knowledge

Clear communication

The biggest shift? Companies want decision-makers, not just report creators.

A global certification helps — but a global mindset matters more.

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Top Professional Commerce Courses in India 📊

Commerce students today need more than just a degree.

With AI, automation, and global hiring trends changing the finance industry, professional certifications are becoming essential.

Here are the top commerce courses to consider in 2026:

✨ CMA USA

Only 2 exams

Short duration

Corporate finance focus

High salary growth

✨ CPA USA

Global accounting qualification

Ideal for US accounting roles

Strong demand in MNCs

✨ ACCA

Recognised in 180+ countries

Great for international accounting careers

✨ CFA

Perfect for investment banking and finance careers

Highly prestigious but challenging

✨ EA (US Tax)

Remote-friendly career path

Fast completion time

👉 Professional certifications help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real industry skills.

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ACCA Course Duration & Eligibility 2026: A Quick Guide

Thinking about ACCA in 2026? Here’s the quick version 👇

📘 Duration: 2–3 years 📅 Exams: 4 times a year 🎓 Eligibility: Class 12 with 65% aggregate 📑 Structure: 13 papers, 3 levels 💼 Careers: Audit, Finance, Tax, Big 4 roles 💰 Salary: ₹9–30+ LPA (India)

If you want a globally accepted accounting qualification without rigid exams, ACCA is worth considering.

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Career Options After 12th Commerce (Quick List)

Commerce students today have access to multiple career paths with solid growth potential.

Finance & Accounting

CA, CMA USA, US CPA

ACCA, CFA, FRM

EA, CFP, BAF

Business & Management

B.Com, BBA, BMS

Business Economics

International Business

Banking & Insurance

Tech & Skills

Business Analytics

Digital Marketing

IT / ERP Roles

Markets & Research

Investment Banking

Equity Research

Economics

Financial Markets

✨ The best choice depends on your interests and long-term goals. Early planning and skill development matter more than rushing into a decision.

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US CMA vs MBA: Which Is Better for Salary and Career Growth?

I had the same confusion earlier, so here’s a simple comparison based on career outcomes rather than hype.

MBA and US CMA serve different purposes.

An MBA is a general management degree. It helps if you want exposure to marketing, operations, HR, and leadership. However, salary and placement depend heavily on whether you graduate from a top-tier B-school.

The US CMA is a professional certification focused entirely on management accounting, financial analysis, budgeting, and strategic decision-making. It’s globally recognized and requires clearing just two exams.

Duration

MBA: 2 years

US CMA: 6–12 months (on average)

Salary (India)

Average MBA graduate: ₹6–9 LPA

MBA from top colleges: ₹15+ LPA

US CMA: ₹7–10 LPA initially, with strong global growth

Career Scope

US CMA roles are more finance-centric:

FP&A

Cost Accounting

Finance Manager

Financial Analyst

MBA roles are broader:

Marketing

Operations

HR

Business Management

My Take

If your goal is global finance roles and faster ROI, US CMA is a better option. If you want general management exposure and leadership roles, an MBA works—especially from a reputed institute.

Both are good. The right one depends on your career direction.

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CA vs ACCA vs CMA – Quick Comparison (India)

Choosing a career is not about copying others. It’s about knowing what suits you.

CA • Audit, tax, Indian regulations • Long duration, difficult exams • Suitable for practice and Indian firms

ACCA • Global accounting & IFRS • Moderate duration • Preferred by Big 4 and MNCs

CMA (USA) • Costing, FP&A, strategy • Shorter duration • Ideal for corporate finance roles

There is no best course. There is only the right course for you.

— Northstar Academy

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Thinking About ACCA in 2026? Here’s What You Should Know

If you’re dreaming of a global finance or accounting career, ACCA might be the qualification you’re looking for.

ACCA is recognized in 180+ countries and is trusted by Big 4 firms and multinational companies worldwide. What makes it different is its flexibility — you don’t need to wait years to complete it.

⏳ Course Duration Most students complete ACCA in 2–3 years, depending on exemptions. Exams are held four times a year, so you can move faster if you’re consistent.

🎓 Who Can Do ACCA?

12th pass students

Commerce graduates (B.Com, BBA, BAF)

CA / CMA / CS students

Working professionals

📚 Course Structure

Applied Knowledge (3 papers)

Applied Skills (6 papers)

Strategic Professional (4 papers)

💼 Career After ACCA ACCA professionals work as auditors, financial analysts, tax consultants, and finance managers in companies like Deloitte, EY, PwC, and KPMG.

💰 Salary Freshers earn around ₹9–11 LPA, and experienced ACCAs can earn ₹20 LPA or more.

If you want a qualification that travels with you across countries, ACCA is a smart move in 2026.

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7 Steps to Clear CMA USA on Your First Attempt

Clearing the CMA USA exam on your first attempt isn’t luck , it’s strategy. At NorthStar Academy, thousands of our students have cracked CMA USA in one go with a smart, structured plan. Here’s exactly how you can do it too.

The Truth: Yes, You Can Clear CMA USA in Your First Attempt

You’ve probably heard — “CMA USA is tough.” But the truth is, it’s absolutely doable if you follow the right approach.

The only difference between those who pass and those who don’t? A strong CMA USA study plan, consistent daily effort, and the right mentorship guiding you all the way.

At NorthStar Academy, we’ve seen this transformation happen from confused beginners to confident CMA USA professionals working at Big 4s and global MNCs.

Why Passing CMA USA on the First Attempt Changes Everything

Let’s be honest — retaking exams drains your time, money, and motivation. With the right CMA USA preparation strategy, you can clear both parts within 6–9 months and start your global finance career sooner.

Two papers. One globally respected certification. A passport to international accounting and management roles.

Step 1: Know the CMA USA Exam Pattern & Syllabus

The CMA USA exam consists of 2 parts:

Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance & Analytics

Part 2: Strategic Financial Management

Each exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions and 2 essay questions, and you’ll need a minimum of 360 out of 500 to pass.

Before you begin, get crystal clear on the CMA USA syllabus and topic weightage — it’ll help you plan smarter.

Step 2: Choose the Right CMA USA Study Material

Not every study resource prepares you equally. Use ICMA-aligned CMA USA study material and choose a course that gives you:

Concept-based clarity (not rote memorization)

Realistic question banks

Smart analytics to track your weak areas

At NorthStar Academy, our SmartStudy Plans are built exactly for that — so you study efficiently and confidently.

Step 3: The 3-Hour-a-Day Formula to Crack CMA USA

Here’s a formula that’s worked for hundreds of students — 3 hours daily, consistently.

Split it like this:

1 hour for new concepts

1 hour for practice

1 hour for revision/mock review

This method is sustainable even for working professionals and college students. CMA USA success isn’t about cramming it’s about daily discipline.

Step 4: Practice the Essay Section from Day One

Essay questions test how well you apply what you’ve learned. Start practicing early , don’t wait till the last month.

Write out answers, structure them clearly, and manage time. We train students using real CMA USA essay trends and examples to help them feel confident before the exam.

Step 5: Attempt CMA USA Mock Tests Under Real Conditions

Mocks aren’t optional , they’re your exam-day rehearsal. Start full-length tests at least a month before your exam.

Simulate the real environment: same timing, same pressure. Then, review every mistake , that’s where your biggest improvement lies.

Step 6: Get Mentorship and Accountability

Every CMA USA topper had guidance. Mentorship keeps you focused when motivation fades.

At NorthStar Academy, you don’t just get a course you get a coach who helps you plan, track progress, and stay exam-ready. That’s why our CMA USA pass rates are among the highest in India.

Step 7: Start Smart, Stay Consistent

CMA USA is not about last-minute hustle — it’s about showing up daily. Set weekly milestones, track your progress, and celebrate small wins.

The earlier you start, the smoother your CMA USA journey — and the sooner you’ll step into your global finance career.

Conclusion

Cracking CMA USA isn’t about being a genius. It’s about being disciplined, patient, and persistent.

Your CMA USA certification isn’t just another credential — it’s your launchpad to:

High-paying FP&A, management accounting, and strategy roles

Global career mobility

Leadership positions in top multinational companies

Stop overthinking. Start your CMA USA journey today — and finish strong.

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Important ACCA Exam Update: Remote Exams Ending in India from 2026

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has officially announced a major policy change that will directly impact thousands of ACCA aspirants across India. Starting from March 2026, remote exams will no longer be available in India. From this point onward, all ACCA exams including on-demand CBEs (Computer-Based Exams) and session-based exams must be taken at approved exam centres.

This change is part of a global move by ACCA to discontinue remotely invigilated exams in all countries where exam centre provision is available. India, having a strong network of ACCA-approved centres, falls under this directive.

Why Is ACCA Removing Remote Exams?

According to ACCA’s official communication, the decision has been made due to increasing concerns about the security and integrity of remote invigilation. With evolving technologies, the risks of malpractice and technical issues have become a growing concern.

ACCA aims to safeguard the credibility of the ACCA Qualification by ensuring all students are assessed under uniform, secure conditions. Centre-based exams help maintain exam rigour, protect students’ hard work, and uphold the ACCA brand as the most globally respected accounting certification.

Timeline of Changes

4 November 2025: Students will no longer be able to purchase tokens for on-demand remote CBEs, unless they are in countries without exam centres.

March 2026: All session-based exams must be taken at physical exam centres.

This applies to all ACCA qualifications, with the only exception being the Professional Diploma in Sustainability, which will remain available via remote exam.

What This Means for Indian ACCA Students

If you’re preparing for ACCA in India, it is important to start planning for centre-based exams now. Most students already opt for this format, but for those who preferred the flexibility of remote exams, this is a significant shift.

Rest assured, India’s ACCA-approved exam centre infrastructure is strong and accessible in most metro and Tier-2 cities.

Ready to Start Your ACCA Journey?

Join NorthStar Academy — India’s Premier ACCA Coaching Institute!

At NorthStar Academy, we ensure that you’re not just exam-ready, but future-ready. With expert faculty, comprehensive study plans, and full support for exam registration and centre selection, NSA prepares you to excel in centre-based ACCA exams with ease.

Whether you’re planning your first paper or your final Strategic Professional module, we guide you at every step. Our students consistently achieve top ranks globally and enjoy placements in Big 4 firms and top MNCs.

Now is the perfect time to start your ACCA course with NSA and beat the rush before March 2026!

Enroll Today , Limited Seats for Our Upcoming ACCA Batches!

To know more about us, visit the official website.

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M.Com vs MBA: Which Gives Better Return on Investment (ROI) in 2026?

Choosing between an M.Com (Master of Commerce) and an MBA (Master of Business Administration) is one of the most important career decisions for commerce and finance students. Both degrees can open great opportunities but the Return on Investment (ROI) depends on factors like your goals, budget, and long-term career vision.

This detailed comparison explains the M.Com vs MBA ROI, salary scope, and career growth in India, so you can make the most informed decision for your future.

What Is M.Com? (Master of Commerce Overview)

M.Com is a postgraduate program that focuses on accounting, finance, taxation, and business management. It’s ideal for students who wish to build subject expertise and pursue technical or academic career paths.

Course Duration: 2 years Average Fees: ₹1 — ₹2 lakhs Popular Career Paths: Accountant, Financial Analyst, Tax Consultant, Auditor, Research Analyst, Lecturer

Best suited for: Students who prefer a deep understanding of commerce and finance concepts or plan to pursue certifications such as CMA USA, CPA USA, or ACCA to enhance their global employability.

What Is MBA? (Master of Business Administration Overview)

An MBA builds broad-based knowledge of management, leadership, and business operations. It prepares students for corporate, managerial, and strategic roles in various industries.

Course Duration: 2 years Average Fees: ₹8 — ₹20 lakhs (depending on the institution) Popular Career Paths: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Finance Manager, Operations Head, Product Manager

Best suited for: Students who want to move into leadership roles, switch industries, or start their own ventures.

ROI Comparison: M.Com vs MBA Salary and Job Growth in India

When comparing ROI after M.Com vs MBA, three factors matter most — course cost, salary potential, and growth opportunities.

After M.Com:

Average salary: ₹3 — ₹6 LPA

ROI: High, due to lower course fees and consistent job prospects

Common career tracks: Accounting, finance, teaching, or government services

After MBA:

Average salary: ₹7 — ₹12 LPA (higher for top B-schools)

ROI: High potential, especially with management and consulting careers

Common career tracks: Leadership, marketing, operations, or business strategy

Conclusion: While MBA graduates may earn higher salaries, M.Com offers a better ROI percentage because of its lower cost and solid specialization in commerce subjects.

M.Com vs MBA: Which Has Better Career Scope in 2026

M.Com Career Scope:

Strong opportunities in finance, taxation, auditing, and academia

Ideal for students planning to pursue CMA USA, CPA USA, ACCA, or CFA for international roles

Offers a stable and focused career trajectory

MBA Career Scope:

Broad exposure to corporate, consulting, and managerial roles

Suitable for students who want to lead teams or manage global operations

High potential for rapid promotions and global mobility

How to Calculate ROI After M.Com or MBA

ROI Formula: ROI = (Average Annual Salary ÷ Total Course Fee) × 100

Example:

MBA costing ₹10 lakhs with ₹10 LPA salary = 100% ROI

M.Com costing ₹2 lakhs with ₹5 LPA salary = 250% ROI

This shows that while MBA salaries are generally higher, the M.Com ROI percentage is often stronger due to its affordability and specialization.

Which Course Is Better for Commerce and Finance Students

If you are passionate about finance, taxation, or accounting, then M.Com paired with a professional finance course such as CMA USA, CPA USA, or ACCA is a great option.

If your goal is to work in management or corporate leadership, an MBA with a specialization in Finance, Operations, or Business Analytics will help you achieve faster career growth.

In summary:

Choose M.Com for subject expertise, affordability, and steady growth.

Choose MBA for broader career flexibility, leadership, and higher salary potential.

Boost Your ROI with NorthStar Academy

At NorthStar Academy, we believe education should deliver tangible career results. Led by M. Irfat Sir, an industry-recognized mentor and finance career strategist, we guide students toward globally successful careers.

Whether you choose CMA USA, CPA USA, ACCA, EA, or CFA, our programs are structured to:

Strengthen your professional profile globally

Provide practical, job-ready knowledge

Ensure faster career growth and high ROI

With years of proven expertise and thousands of student success stories, NorthStar Academy continues to be India’s most trusted destination for building high-paying global finance careers.