CIMA Qualifications

The CIMA course is an accounting and management credential that prepares individuals for careers in management accounting and strategic financial management. To pass the CIMA qualification, you need to complete a series of exams, gain practical experience, and adhere to ethical and professional standards. Here's what's involved in passing the CIMA qualification:

Eligibility and Registration:

Before you start the CIMA qualification, you'll need to meet eligibility requirements, which usually include having a relevant academic qualification, although there are different entry routes available.

Exams:

The CIMA qualification consists of a series of exams, which are divided into three levels:

Operational Level: This level covers basic financial accounting and management accounting topics. It includes three exams: E1 (Enterprise Operations), P1 (Performance Operations), and F1 (Financial Operations).

Management Level: At this level, you'll delve deeper into management accounting and financial management concepts. The exams are E2 (Enterprise Management), P2 (Performance Management), and F2 (Financial Management).

Strategic Level: The highest level focuses on strategic management accounting and strategic financial management. The exams are E3 (Strategic Management), P3 (Risk Management), and F3 (Financial Strategy).

Objective Test Exams:

CIMA exams are primarily objective test format, which means you'll answer multiple-choice, multiple-response, and task-based simulation questions. The exams are computer-based and held at specific examination sessions throughout the year.

Integrated Case Study Exams:

In addition to the objective test exams, each level includes an integrated case study exam. These exams require you to analyze complex business scenarios and apply your knowledge to make strategic decisions.

Practical Experience:

In addition to passing the exams, you are required to complete a period of practical experience called the "Practical Experience Requirements" (PER). This involves gaining relevant work experience in a managerial, financial, or management accounting role.

Professional Skills:

CIMA places a strong emphasis on professional skills. You'll need to demonstrate your competence in areas such as communication, leadership, and ethics, in addition to technical knowledge.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD):

After achieving the CIMA qualification, you must engage in ongoing CPD activities to stay current with changes in regulations and industry standards.

Membership:

Upon successful completion of the CIMA qualification, practical experience, and professional skills requirements, you can apply for full CIMA membership, which grants you the title of "Chartered Global Management Accountant" (CGMA).

The CIMA qualification is highly regarded for its focus on strategic management accounting and its emphasis on professional skills and ethics. It's important to carefully plan your path, study effectively for the exams, gain the necessary practical experience, and adhere to the ethical and professional standards required by CIMA to successfully complete the qualification