1. What are the careers possible after obtaining the CIMA® qualification?
The CIMA® qualification opens up opportunities for you in roles focused on driving business and performance of organizations across the board for global firms and organizations. The core value of Investment & management accounting lies in its twin focus and expertise. On the one hand, CIMA® prepares young professionals for careers connected to the highly specialized professions of Investment Accounting, Investment Analyses, Securities Management and Portfolio Management. On the other, CIMA®-holders can also fit in roles that that need generating financial intelligence that organizations require to drive their strategic growth and expansion decisions and competitive superiority. CIMA®, hence prepares professionals to work in organizations that deal with multiple currencies, tax-systems, financial regulations and geopolitical equations. In contrast, conventional accounting qualifications are commoditized now, and prepare for roles related to financial accounting, cost accounting, tax management and auditing – roles that are rapidly diminishing in importance globally across industries because of proliferation of accounting technologies and the emergence of the phenomenon of accounting outsourcing.
2. Is investment & management accounting basically management accounting plus something?
It is much more actually, than a mere addition of the expertise in investment accounting. Investment & management accounting is fleshed within a completely international context of business and accounting, and layered with a formal understanding of business and investment strategy, global finance and risk management.
3. Why is investment & management accounting special?
Investment & management accounting becomes special because of the power, scope and nature of its impact on the very business and value of organizations. Unlike other conventional domains of accounting, the investment & management accounting twin impact the effectiveness of how organization's structure, account and value their capital market investment assets on the one hand, and costs and revenues on the other. While the investment accounting component is directly related to detailed accounting of investment assets and generating intelligence that help take optimal decisions on selling/ buying/ holding investments in debt, equity and derivatives; management accounting provides strategic mechanisms, measures, metrics, financial insights, data and information business continuity; new market entry; diversification; acquisitions; new product introduction, and even restructuring and reengineering.
4. Does the CIMA® program include the basics of accounting for those who are not exposed to the discipline?
Yes. Not only accounting, but also other connected disciplines too. For more details, please click here.
5. How is CIMA® qualification different from other accounting certifications?
CIMA® is currently the only global qualification in investment & management accounting. The single biggest difference is its focus on generating financial intelligence that help take optimal investment decisions for top management. Conventional accounting qualifications, on the other hand, are restricted to proving competence in management of accounts for regulatory, disclosure, audit and tax management purposes – roles that generally do not contribute to most parts of an organization’s value chain or business functions.
6. How difficult or easy it is for an MBA to complete CIMA® program?
Both, in principle and practically, professionals with majors in finance or accounting must find completing CIMA® program relatively comfortable, because they are already oriented to, and are aware of the building blocks of economics, accounting, financial management, strategy, capital budget and cost management. Not to miss, but on a separate note, students of MBA/ Master’s programs of institutions included in the recognition list(s) of the CIMA Institute also get to register on the CIMA® Standard track on a special fee discount.
7. Can somebody with a background in humanities/ social sciences/ arts complete CIMA® program?
It entirely depends on how well you can work with numbers; if you know basic arithmetical operations; if you have an interest in business, economics and stock markets, and can think logically and analyze numbers. If you have all of this, then the study material provided by independent content providers takes cares of all required foundational aspects of accounting, business, strategy, risk management and international business environment. They help you orient well to investment & management accounting.
8. I hold a CPA/ CFA/ CMA/ CWA/ CA/ CS qualification. Can I complete CIMA® program faster?
Yes of course, because you can apply under the CIMA® Professional Pathway track which requires you to take only one exam unifying Levels 1 and 2, instead of taking Level 1 and Level 2 exams separately as the Standard track CIMA® candidates require to do. This adds a few miles to the speed of your CIMA® journey. To add, as a Professional Pathway candidate, you only have to study 13 of the prescribed 20 knowledge areas, and that also eases and speeds up your prep for the CIMA® exam. And finally, as is logical to expect, since you are already oriented to accounting, finance, taxation, costing and business, you can learn much faster.
9. Can I make a career in Investment & Management Accounting even if I do not have a finance or accounting background?
It entirely depends on how well you can work with numbers; if you know basic arithmetical operations; if you have an interest in business, economics and stock markets, and can think logically and analyze numbers. If you have all of this, then the study material provided by independent content providers takes cares of all required foundational aspects of accounting, business, strategy, risk management and international business environment. They help you orient well to investment & management accounting.
10. What are the roles that a professional in investment & management accounting generally performs?
Roles are titled differently in different zones and countries. The roles can be titled as Investment Accountant; Investment Analyst; Treasury Reporting Analyst; Finance Analysts; Accounts Payable Officer; Accounts Receivable Officer; Financial Controller; Bookkeeping Executives; Business Analysts; Auditors; Project Accountant Fund Accountant; Company Accountant; Tax & Compliance Officers.
11. What are the different CIMA® registration tracks?
Standard Track: This track must be opted by all applicants whose most recent and the only educational qualification is a Bachelor's degree or, who are currently studying in the final year of their Bachelor's degree programs from nationally or internationally recognized/ accredited institutions. The professional background or academic major is no limitation for applying for CIMA®, though, applicants having a prior exposure to accounting, finance and business do tend to find the CIMA® program journey simpler and faster to complete. In Standard track, candidates first register for and pass Level 1, and then move to Level 2 - both exams covering 10 CIMA® knowledge areas each.
Professional Pathway: Professional Pathway is instituted for applicants who have professional qualifications or certifications in finance, investment management, financial accounting, management accounting; cost accounting; public accounting and similar or related areas from professional associations or certification bodies featuring in the CIMA® Preferred Accounting Associations list. Candidates are also eligible for the CIMA® Professional Pathway, if they hold an MBA or a Master’s degree in finance or accounting from a CIMA® Recognized B-School list. Professional Pathway candidates require to pass only one exam covering 13 knowledge areas unifying Levels 1 and 2. This is the fast-track mode because Professional Pathway candidates do not have to pass Level 1 and Level 2 exams separately as the Standard track CIMA® candidates require doing.
In addition, the CIMA Institute also has the mandate to open registration and entry tracks for special groups of applicants who do not qualify under the Standard track or the Professional Pathway. These groups or communities of applicants exhibit exceptionally high and proven intellectual capabilities to absorb the rigor of the CIMA® program, besides possessing an express potential of emerging as leaders in the investment & management accounting profession in the near future.
12. What is the work-experience requirement for the CIMA® program?
Work experience or a professional background is not a mandatory requirement or a candidacy essential for acceptance in the CIMA® program. However, professionals having practical exposure to accounting or finance do find completing the CIMA® journey more convenient..
13. Is there a faster way to acquire the CIMA® Charter?
Yes. There is the Professional Pathway track that accelerates the CIMA® program journey of applicants already holding/ specialized qualifications or charter certifications from distinguished certification bodies or professional associations in various areas of accounting or finance can register through the Professional Pathway. Professional Pathway is instituted for individuals holding specialist/ advanced qualifications in finance, investment management, financial accounting, management accounting; cost accounting; public accounting and similar or related areas from professional associations or certification bodies featuring in the CIMA® Preferred Accounting Associations list. Candidates are also eligible for the CIMA® Professional Pathway, if they hold an MBA or a Master’s degree in finance or accounting. Professional Pathway candidates require to pass only one exam covering 13 knowledge areas unifying Levels 1 and 2. This is the fasttrack mode because Professional Pathway candidates do not have to pass Level 1 and Level 2 exams separately as the Standard track CIMA® candidates require doing.
14. What should you do if your application is rejected because of candidacy reasons?
Please contact us through an email with giving all the details. Our Candidacy & Registrations Office will respond to you with clarification.
15. What is CIMA® Professional Pathway?
CIMA® Professional Pathway is a faster way to complete CIMA® program, and that too at a lower fee! CIMA® Professional Pathway is instituted for individuals holding specialist/ advanced qualifications in finance, investment management, financial accounting, management accounting; cost accounting; public accounting and similar or related areas from professional associations or certification bodies featuring in the CIMA® Preferred Accounting Associations list. Candidates are also eligible for the CIMA® Professional Pathway, if they hold an MBA or a Master’s degree in finance or accounting. Professional Pathway candidates require to pass only one exam covering 13 knowledge areas unifying Levels 1 and 2. Professional Pathway candidates are required to study fewer CIMA® knowledge areas to prepare for their CIMA® exams. While the standard CIMA® program requires candidates to complete and qualify Standard CIMA® Level 1 and Level 2 exams (of 4-hours each) covering all 20 CIMA® knowledge areas, the Professional Pathway candidates require to qualify only one, single exam unifying Levels 1 and 2, covering only 13 of the 20 CIMA® knowledge areas to earn CIMA® qualification.
16. Can I check my candidacy for CIMA® and eligibility for Professional Pathway before applying?
Yes, you can! Please head to the Check Your Candidacy Check page on this website. Once you submit the information about your educational and professional qualifications and professional association or a certification body, the Check Candidacy application immediately returns with a suggestion on the CIMA® registration track most suitable for you.
17. Why is the CIMA® Professional Pathway track shorter?
CIMA® Professional Pathway track is shorter and faster because instead of studying the standard 20 knowledge areas for standard CIMA® exams, Professional Pathway applicants study just 13. Also, instead of taking two exams, Professional Pathway applicants require to take only one, single unified exam.
18. What if the accounting body/ professional association, I’m a member of is not included in the CIMA® Preferred Accounting Association List of recognized certification bodies/ professional associations?
Generally, most national, regional and global professional associations or certification bodies of accounting and finance professionals form a part of the CIMA® Preferred Accounting Association List. However, if your professional association or certification body is not included on the list and you feel it’s a miss; you can please Contact Us through an email.
19. What, if my university/ business school is not listed on the CIMA® list of especially recognized institutions ?
For all practical purposes, most of the nationally and internationally best-known academic institutions form a part of the CIMA® B-School Recognized list. However, if your institution is not included on this list and you feel it’s a miss; you can please Contact Us through an email.
20. Can graduating Bachelor’s/ Master’s/ MBA students apply for CIMA® ?
Applicants who have not completed their Bachelor’s degree program but studying in the final year of their program are eligible to apply for CIMA® program. However, they have to complete their undergrad degree before they can be awarded CIMA®. The CIMA Institute prescribes a completed Bachelor’s degree as the most basic candidacy requirement for issuing the CIMA® charter, therefore even after qualifying the CIMA® exam(s), candidates will become eligible for the CIMA® charter only once they have completed the Bachelor/Undergrad degree. Master’s and MBA students specializing in accounting or finance from institutions that are officially listed as CIMA® Recognized B-School list can apply for CIMA® under the Standard track, and they are offered a special fee discount as well. However, Master’s and MBA students of institutions that are not listed as CIMA® Recognized B-School list can apply for CIMA® under the Standard track and no discount is offered.
21. How do I register for the CIMA® program/ CIMA® charter?
The process pf earning the CIMA® charter starts off with applicants checking their candidacy for the CIMA® qualification. More specifically the following steps form the typical CIMA® journey:
Note: Payment can be made with a Visa, American Express or MasterCard credit/ debit card. The payment amount will be automatically prompted by the system. If you are paying the fee through wire-transfer or check, please fill out the remittance transaction reference number issued by your bank when you are asked to. Generally, for Wire Transfer and check, it takes approximately 3-5 business days for the payment to be processed and received.
22. Do I have to complete the application form in one go?
No. You can fill out the form in multiple sittings. The form auto-saves your information you have filled.
23. How quickly can I complete my CIMA® program journey?
24. What documents do I need to register for the CIMA® program?
You do not require to submit any documents at the time of registration. You will be asked to upload them on your myCIMA dashboard while scheduling your CIMA® exam. For candidate's who have applied for the CIMA® program, during their final year of Undergrad/Bachelor's degree must complete and submit their certificate before applying for CIMA® charter.
25. When can I schedule my CIMA® online exam?
The CIMA® Exam Windows open four times a year in the months of March, June, September and December and can be taken anytime 90 days after the date of CIMA® registration in any of the available slots. You can schedule your exam any time within the next 3 years (2 years for Professional Pathway candidates).
Though CIMA® exams are online in most countries, in some, they are conducted in the offline, pen-and-paper mode considering examinee convenience. For more details, please check your myCIMA dashboard.
26. When can I schedule my offline/ pen-and-paper CIMA® exam?
Offline CIMA® exams have been suspended for the calendar years 2022 and 2023. However, the CIMA® policy is to conduct these exams twice a year. You can choose the most convenient exam date in either of the two exam windows, and schedule your exam on one of the available day and time slots. You can schedule the standard CIMA® Level-1 and 2 exams within three years of your CIMA® program registration confirmation. For more details, please check your myCIMA dashboard.
27. What exam(s) do I have to take to complete the requirements of earning the CIMA® charter?
Standard Track: Two exams of 4 hours for levels 1 and 2 each, carrying 150 multiple answer-choice questions each. You can take the Level 2 exam not before 90 days after qualifying the Level 1 exam. You have to register for CIMA® Level 2 after you have passed the CIMA® Level 1 Exam.
Professional Pathway: Only ONE, single, unified exam of 4 hours carrying 150 multiple answer-choice questions, covering both CIMA® levels.
28. By when should I make payment for the CIMA® program?
Irrespective of whether you are a Standard Track or a Professional Pathway applicant, you are required to pay fee only after receiving an offer of acceptance in the CIMA® program. The fee payment deadline is mentioned in the offer message shared on the registered email. If you are a Standard track applicant, you have to register for CIMA® Level 1 and Level 2 separately and you pay fee after receiving the offer for Level 1/ Level 2 registration. Remember, you cannot apply for/ register for CIMA® Level 2 unless you have passed the CIMA® Level 1 exam. Once you complete and submit your CIMA® program application, you will receive an acknowledgement message and email from us carrying the fee details.
29. How do I print an invoice from myCIMA account?
To print an invoice from your myCIMA account:
Notes
30. Will I receive learning or exam preparation resources?
The CIMA Institute provides mock exams and a comprehensive exam preparation and study guide. While the mock exams help candidates get the flavor of the real CIMA® exams, the CIMA® study guide contains exam-prep and reading guidelines as well as an exhaustive list of books that candidates can be referred to. Though, the CIMA Institute, being a standards and certification body does not provide exam preparation material in keeping with worldwide best-practices and norms, CIMA® program candidates do get updates and promotional offers from independent organizations and professional groups that provide self-study material and practice tests in online or print form. All candidates must regularly check their email boxes and myCIMA dashboard regularly for such offers.
31. When will I get an invoice for my program package fee?
The CIMA® program fee invoice is generated immediately on the myCIMA dashboard, once the CIMA® enrolment offer is accepted by you. The fee invoice is visible on the screen, as well as available in the form of a pdf document for download.
32. What are the modes of fee-payment available?
You can pay the CIMA® program fee conveniently from your myCIMA account through a Credit/ Debit card.
In case, you have used the wire-transfer mode to pay your fee, do get the remittance or transaction reference code from your bank and share it on the myCIMA account when you are asked to. Your registration will not be complete until you submit the reference code. Generally, for Wire Transfer and check, it takes approximately 3-5 business days for the payment to be processed and received.
33. What is the refund policy in case I wish to withdraw from the program?
The full fee paid by an applicant minus US$ 250 is refunded if the withdrawal application arrives within 72 hours from payment. For withdrawal requests beyond 72 business hours, no refund application is processed.
34. Do I have to pay the fee again if I cancel an exam I scheduled?
Examinees who voluntarily cancel their scheduled examination appointments can reschedule their exam appointment within the same exam window by paying a fee of US$ 100. However, if the exam is rescheduled in any other exam window, then the rescheduling exam fee is US $150. The cancellation and rescheduling of exam is allowed only before the exam cancellation and rescheduling deadline mentioned on the candidates’ myCIMA dashboard and in the email messages. Click here for more details.
35. In case of payment failure whom do I need to contact?
In case of payment failure due to problems arising on CIMA® payment gateway or CIMA® application system or CIMA® website, immediately write to [email protected]. In case the problem is on the side of your banker or credit card issuer, please contact their respective customer care desks immediately for an effective resolution.
36. What are CIMA® exams like?
CIMA® exams primarily seek to test the candidates’ understanding of core concepts, processes and techniques that investment & management accounting professionals need to necessarily know in order to perform their routine tasks of collection, collation, classification, analysis, reportage and communication of financial and accounting information related to costs, transfer pricing, corporate investments and valuation etc. The questions do not seek to test candidates’ ability to remember and recollect information and data, and are instead focused on assessing candidates’ all-round comprehension and knowledge that together influence their abilities to analyze, decide, advise and report accounting matters, and generate accounting and financial intelligence for their organizations. More specifically, the CIMA Institute has two categories of exams – one meant for candidates registering under the Standard track, and the other registering under the CIMA® Professional Pathway.
CIMA® Standard Exams: As a CIMA® Standard track candidate, you have to cover 20 knowledge areas – 10 for each CIMA® Level 1 and CIMA® Level 2 exams. CIMA® Level 1 exam has to be passed before candidates can register for CIMA® Level 2. Each CIMA® exam is of 4 hours duration carrying 150 multiple-choice questions. You can take your CIMA® Level 2 exam 90 days after passing CIMA® Level 1 exam. Remember, registration for CIMA® Level 2 is not automatic. You have to formally register for CIMA® Level 2 by paying the requisite fee to become eligible for taking CIMA® Level 2 exam.
CIMA® Professional Pathway Exam: As a CIMA® Professional Pathway candidate, you require to cover 13 knowledge areas combining CIMA® Level 1 and CIMA® Level 2, and pass one, single unified exam is of 4 hours duration carrying 150 multiple-choice questions. You can take your CIMA® Professional Pathway exam 90 days after date of confirmation of registration for the CIMA® program.
The degree of difficulty of questions featuring in all CIMA® exams, and their mix and structure are exactly the same for all categories of CIMA® exams. Read more about CIMA® exams in the CIMA® exam section on the CIMA® Charter page of this website
37. How can I prepare for the CIMA® exam(s)?
It is highly recommended that all CIMA® candidates go through the detailed CIMA® Study & Exam Preparation Guide provided to them on their myCIMA dashboard. This guide contains a wealth of information, tips and analysis on the form, format and content of the CIMA® exams and strategy to prepare effectively for them. This guide also carries a detailed list of books and reading resources that candidates are strongly advised to refer to. Indeed, candidates must not miss the CIMA® Mocks! There are Two mock exams provided to all candidates for each of their applicable CIMA® exams. These mock exams can be taken right there on the myCIMA dashboard. In many countries, independent content providers and CIMA® partners offer online and printed handbooks, learning resources and practice questions, and they contact CIMA® candidates directly, once their registration is complete.
38. What is the format of the exam(s)?
Every CIMA® exam is of 4 hours duration and contains 150 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have to select and mark only one correct answer from the four given choices. The exam questions test comprehension and application abilities of candidates, and often require numerical calculations before the correct answer can be chosen. There is no penalty for answers marked wrong. The exam and the candidate guides explain the exam process and format in detail.
39. How do I know if my CIMA® exam has been scheduled successfully?
You get a confirmation message on your myCIMA dashboard and also on your registered email address. When scheduling your CIMA® exam, please ensure that your email address on your myCIMA account is the correct one and you have opted in to receive electronic communications so that you receive your confirmation email without any problems. You should also check your spam in case the email has been delivered there.
If you do not receive your confirmation email, please check your myCIMA dashboard. If your exam was scheduled successfully, you should be able to see the date and time slots on your screen. If you cannot see the date and time slots, you can again go back schedule your exam.
40. What are the documents/ proofs to be submitted for CIMA®, and by when should I submit them??
The following documents need to be submitted by candidates:
FOR STANDARD TRACK APPLICANTS/ CANDIDATES
For applicants holding a Bachelor’s Degree: Copy of the degree-certificate or copy of the final official transcript or marks statement
For applicants completing their Bachelor’s Degree*: Copy of the official 2nd-year transcript/ marks statement (for a 3-year degree program) or copy of the official 3rd year transcript (for a four-degree program)
For applicants pursuing their Master’s Degree: Copy of the official transcript/ marks statement of the last term/ semester/ year exam
*IMPORTANT: For candidate's who have applied for the CIMA® program during their final year of Undergrad/ Bachelor's degree will require to submit their degree/ official transcript of the final year undergraduate/ Bachelor’s program before they can be awarded the CIMA® charter.
FOR PROFESSIONAL PATHWAY APPLICANTS/ CANDIDATES
For applicants holding a specialized/ chartered certification in Accounting/ Finance: Copy of the official certificate or official transcript/ marks statement
For applicants holding MBA or Master’s degree: Copy of the official degree-certificate or copy of the final official transcript or marks statement
SUBMISSION DEADLINE AND PROCESS
All candidates are required to submit the applicable proofs of qualification before scheduling their first CIMA® exam. The document has to be uploaded on the candidate’s myCIMA dashboard. upload these documents while scheduling your exam from myCIMA dashboard. Candidates, who have applied for the CIMA® program during their final year of Undergrad/ Bachelor's degree must note that they will also require to submit their degree/ official transcript of the final year undergraduate/ Bachelor’s program before they can be awarded the CIMA® charter.
41. What is the process to cancel my exam?
If you wish to cancel your exam, you must log into your myCIMA account and cancel the exam. When you reschedule your exam appointment within the same testing window, you have to pay a fee of US $ 100. If the exam is rescheduled in any other testing windows then the rescheduling exam fee is US $150. The cancellation of exam is allowed only before the exam cancellation and rescheduling deadline mentioned on the candidates myCIMA dashboard.
42. I would like to make changes in my exam plan. Is this possible?
If you want to make changes, you must do it by logging into your myCIMA account and before the exam Rescheduling Deadline mentioned on your myCIMA dashboard. After cancellation, when you reschedule your exam appointment within the same testing window, you have to pay a fee of US $ 100. If the exam is rescheduled in any other testing windows then the rescheduling exam fee is US $150.
43. Can I take my Online CIMA® exam using my own system?
Yes, only in countries where online exams are possible. Even for these countries, you must check your dashboard for messages regarding exams. For many countries, there is this facility that you can actually take exams on your own computer, at home or in your office cabin. These CIMA® exam(s) are real-time proctored, and delivered in the private mode keeping the convenience of examinees in mind. Such exams can be taken after getting your computer machine verified for exam readiness. The following specifications are typically expected:
Minimum System Requirements
| Operating System | Windows 10 Windows 8.1 (32-bit and 64-bit) Windows 7 SP1 (32-bit and 64-bit) |
| Display (Resolution) | 1024 x 768 [Recommended] |
| Network Connection | Strongly recommend using a wired network rather than a wireless network as it provides better exam delivery performance |
| Internet Connection Speed | Minimum 1 Mbps |
| Web Browser(s) | Latest Version of Google Chrome Only |
| Webcam | Internal or an External Webcam must be connected to the computer |
| Firewall(s) | Corporate Firewalls (including VPNs) often cause this Exam Delivery method to fail. Please take your Exam in a setting without these Firewalls |
| Admin Rights | Should have Admin Rights on your Laptop/Computer |
44. How many exams can I take in each exam session?
You can sit for a maximum of one exam per exam session. For instance, if you have registered for the CIMA® Level 1 exam, you can only take the 4-hour CIMA® Level 1 exam in that session. For your CIMA® Level 2 exam, you will have to wait until you pass the CIMA® Level 1 exam.
45. Can I reschedule my CIMA® exam on the day of the exam?
No.The rescheduling of exam is allowed only before the exam cancellation/rescheduling deadline mentioned on the candidates myCIMA dashboard.
46. What if I have canceled my exam due to some reason, but want to reapply for it now?
If you have voluntarily cancelled the scheduled examination appointment, then you have to pay US$ 100 when you reapply or reschedule your exam appointment within the same testing window. If the exam is rescheduled in any other testing windows, then the rescheduling exam fee is US $150. If the cancellation of exam is done after the exam cancellation and rescheduling deadline mentioned on your myCIMA dashboard, then it is considered as a no-show and you have to pay US$ 250 as exam fees. Please note that examinees can apply and schedule for a resit in the applicable CIMA® exam only after the payment is made.
47. What happens if my CIMA® exam session is affected by illness or other factors?
If this is the case for you and you feel the circumstance has affected your performance during your exam, please Contact Us by submitting details of your mitigating circumstances to us. Usually, the following circumstances are considered sympathetically:
48. Can I resit for the exam(s) which I have already passed?
No. You are not permitted to re-sit for examinations which you have already passed with the CIMA Institute.
49. Can I take my Standard Track CIMA® exams in any order?
Exams must be taken in a sequential order for the Standard Track. In other words, if you wish to sit for Standard CIMA® Level 2 exam, you must pass the Standard CIMA® Level 1 exam.
50. Can I schedule both my Standard Track CIMA® exams for the same day?
No. You can only schedule one exam per day. If you wish to sit for Standard CIMA® Level 2 exam, you must pass the Standard CIMA® Level 1 exam.
51. What types of questions are set in the CIMA® exam(s)?
Every CIMA® exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions, and candidates have to select and mark only one correct answer from the four given choices. The exam questions test comprehension and application abilities of candidates, and often require numerical calculations before the correct answer can be chosen. There is no penalty for answers marked wrong. The exam and the candidate guides explain the exam process and format in detail.
52. Are practice questions available?
The CIMA Institute provides mock exams to every registered candidate. Independent content providers or authorized CIMA® educators may provide practice questions. Please check your myCIMA dashboard and your registered email box for messages from content providers.
53. Exam – Summary
| Description | CIMA® |
|---|---|
| How to Register for Exam & Pay the Fees | CIMA® exam fee is included in the CIMA® registration fee package, and can be paid conveniently from the myCIMA dashboard. The myCIMA dashboard account is created for applicants the moment they start the process of CIMA® application. To apply for and register in the CIMA® program, if you have still not done, click here. |
| Duration of a typical Examination |
Standard CIMA® Level 1 exam- 240 Minutes Standard CIMA® Level 2 exam- 240 Minutes Professional Pathway exam- 240 Minutes |
| Mode of Examination | Though CIMA® exams are online in most countries, in some, they are conducted in the offline, pen-and-paper mode considering examinee convenience. Both exams can be scheduled from the myCIMA dashboard. Basic information on exam windows and dates are available on this website. Candidates get detailed information about their offline pen-and-paper exam from their myCIMA dashboards. Offline exams are suspended for the calendar years 2022 and 2023 |
| Total number of questions in a typical exam |
Standard CIMA® Level 1 exam - 150 Standard CIMA® Level 2 exam - 150 Professional Pathway exam - 150 |
| Type of Questions | Multiple choice questions |
| Standard Qualification benchmark/ passing score for the award | Threshold passing score (TPS) is set for every exam using using an algorithm that accounts into scaling, relative scoring, and degree of difficulty parameters. |
54. When can I see my result of the CIMA® program?
The analysis and result-report arrive within 15 days of your exam date. Successful candidates will receive a printed certificate which will be mailed to the mailing address, as mentioned in the applicant’s profile.
55. When will my CIMA® qualification expire?
The CIMA® qualification never expires. It just has to be kept in good standing. CIMA® is maintained by attending the CIMA® Review Webinar once a year. There is no maintenance action required for the first 2 years as an associate member after the first award. Third year onward, however, holders require to attend the online CIMA® Review Webinar and paying a nominal maintenance fee of US$ 150 every year. Alternatively, CIMA® qualification holders can pay a lifetime maintenance fee of US$ 650. The qualification continuation and maintenance policy are as follows:
| First 2 years after award | Third Year Onwards |
|---|---|
| No action to be taken by the holder |
Annual Maintenance fee of US$ 150 and attending the CIMA® Review Webinar once annually.
OR One-time fee of US$ 650 to obtain a lifetime maintenance. Life-time maintenance-holders of CIMA® certification require to simply attend the CIMA® Review Webinar once every year. |
56. If there are any key exam session updates to know about, how will candidates be kept notified?
We’ll provide any key exam session updates, including unavoidable cancelations, via email. Please ensure you check the inbox for the email address registered with us frequently for any updates. You can check your registered email address by logging into your myCIMA account and clicking My Profile.
57. What if I’ve been allocated to a different exam center from that chosen by me, and the allocated exam center is not suitable?
Where entries exceed the capacity at any particular center it may occasionally be necessary for CIMA Institute to transfer candidates to another center. In such instances CIMA Institute reserve the right to transfer candidates to the nearest alternative center.
As per CIMA Institute’s exam entry terms and conditions, CIMA Institute reserves the right to cancel or reschedule exams without prior notice and to amend or alter published exams, fees and exam venues.
58. Is the use of scrap paper still permitted in offline pen and paper-based exams?
Yes, you may use scrap paper during your center-based exam for any notes and calculations. Scrap paper will be available on request at your exam center on the day.
Currently offline exams are suspended for the calendar years 2022 and 2023.
59. Is there a definite code of conduct policy?
CIMA® has a ‘zero-tolerance’ policy for any misconduct in its exam ecosystem. During examination, the test manager (or proctor) has all rights to dismiss a candidate from the exam session.
The following regulations apply to candidates sitting for offline pen and paper-based exam(s) as well as for online exam(s):
Please be informed that CIMA Institute will take legal action against anybody who violates copyright laws such as reproducing and distributing examination content or materials. The data bank of questions, the exam form and all exam-related materials have copyrights and are the legal property of CIMA Institute.
Any communication – be it verbal, written or electronic, is strictly prohibited. Any such act will be punishable by law.
Please note that, if any examinee is caught in any of the above forms of misconduct, there will be no evaluation of their exam and no refund of their fees. Also, there will be a six-month bar to retake the exam. Furthermore, CIMA Institute shall review the acts of misconduct, which may lead to :
60. What IDs are accepted?
The examinee must carry two valid forms of ID from the list below. Please note that both IDs can either be primary IDs or one primary and one secondary ID.
Primary IDThe primary ID must be an original and valid ID, containing both, the examinee’s photo, and signature.
The secondary ID must be an original and valid ID, containing the examinee’s name and signature, or the examinee’s name and a recent photo.
Please Note: All IDs required must be issued by the country in which the candidate is testing. If the candidate does not have a qualifying primary ID issued from the country they are testing in, an International Travel Passport from their country of citizenship is required, along with a secondary ID.
The first and last name that the candidate uses to register must match exactly the first and last name on both of the IDs that are presented on test day.
61. What happens if I forget my photographic ID on the day of my exam?
You are required to bring an official means of your identity to the exam, such as your passport, driving licence or national ID card. If you forget your ID, you will be required to return to your centre before the end of the exam session with appropriate ID.
62. What is the duration of the exam?
Please find below the duration of each exam:
| Program | CIMA® | ||
| Duration | Standard Exam | Pathway Exam | |
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Professional Pathway | |
| 240 Minutes | 240 Minutes | 240 Minutes | |
Please click here for more details.
63. How many questions are there in an exam?
CIMA® exam(s) are multiple choice based examination. Each question has four choices, with only one correct answer.
| Program | CIMA® | |||
| No. of Questions | Standard Exam | Pathway Exam | ||
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Professional Pathway | ||
| 150 questions | 150 questions | 150 questions | ||
Please click here for more details.
64. Can I carry my electronic devices (like mobile phones, digital watches, calculator, etc.) during the examination?
The candidates are not allowed to carry or use any electronic devices during the examination.
However, small battery- or solar-powered electronic calculators restricted to a maximum of six functions— addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, square root, and percentage—are allowed. The calculator must not be programmable and must not use any type of tape. Candidates can also use Texas Instruments’ BA II Plus, HP 10bII+, HP 12c, or HP 12c Platinum calculators when taking the exams. The Hewlett-Packard 10BII is valid, but no longer available for purchase. Candidates will not be allowed to use calculators that do not comply with these restrictions.
Please visit our examinee conduct policy, to know more.
65. Are we allowed to take breaks between the exam(s)?
Please check the exam instructions on the exam dashboard.
66. At what time should I be exam ready?
For offline pen and paper exam, if you are up to an hour late for the exam, you will still be allowed to enter the exam hall, although no extra time will be awarded. However, the supervisor will not allow you to enter the hall if you arrive more than an hour late.
For online exam(s), it is suggested that you should be exam ready at least 30 minutes in advance of the scheduled exam-start time to ensure that the exam room and the computer being used for exam is thoroughly checked, verified and approved for exam-taking by a designated CIMA® -authorized testing body.
67. How much do I need to score to clear the CIMA® exam?
Unlike traditional academic exams in colleges and universities, there is no fixed qualification score or passing score or passing grade for CIMA® exams. CIMA® passing scores are dynamic, and may vary across geographies and exam batches. A threshold passing score (TPS) is automatically set for every CIMA® exam by the system after accounting into the performances of candidates in the past batches on questions featured in the exam that a candidate is taking. Since the TPS is dynamic and changes for candidates across batches, it is not possible to disclose the qualification score or the pass percentage or the TPS.
68. When can I expect to get my result?
The analysis and result-report arrives within 15 days of your exam date. Successful candidates will receive a printed certificate which will be mailed to the mailing address, as mentioned in the applicant’s profile.
69. What if I am not able to clear my CIMA® exam(s) in the first (1st) attempt?
In the event candidates fail to pass their CIMA® exam(s) level attempts, they can appear for CIMA® exams again by paying US$ 250 for each exam level. They can register for retake of the CIMA® exam from their myCIMA account. Please note that examinees can apply for a resit in the CIMA® exam only after the payment is made. A no-show on a scheduled exam date will be counted as an attempt/resit.
70. What percentage of candidates taking CIMA® exams generally pass?
Though there are geographic variances, given their generally rich, but diverse educational and work backgrounds, almost around 62% CIMA® candidates in the Standard Track manage to qualify CIMA® right in their first attempt, while almost 71% of professional pathway candidates succeed in the CIMA® exams.
71. What is Digital Badging?
A digital badge is an electronic/ digital certificate issued by an assessment and credentialing agency. A digital badge can be shared by candidates as icons and as links on their profiles, curriculum vitae, web pages, social media platforms, or in email signatures. Badges are designed to make visible and validate learning achievements in both formal and informal settings, which can be verified by employers and colleagues.
72. How does Digital Badging work?
Each badge is embedded with evidence of where, when, how, and why it was earned. It is a form of digital certificate that earners can share on social networks, resumes and e-mail signatures.
73. What are the benefits of Digital Badging?
CIMA® digital badging services provide you a way to effectively convey your verified knowledge and expertise to employers, colleagues and recruiters after successful completion of the CIMA® programs
74. Do I have to pay extra for my Digital Badge?
No, the CIMA® program package fee includes the CIMA® Digital Badge. However, candidates who have passed all required CIMA® exams and have qualified for the award are required to pay a nominal amount to cover the shipping of their CIMA® charter-certificate kit that includes two years associate membership, a printed CIMA® certificate and a CIMA® designation pin. Information regarding this made available on the candidates’ myCIMA dashboards.
75. How do I share my CIMA®Program Digital Badge?
Each CIMA® program Digital Badge has a unique digital identity and carries a URL that can be embedded on a website or social media channel.
76. What is the process to change my name on the certificate?
If you want to change your name on the certificate, you will need to write to us at [email protected] and attach the required supporting documents. A fee of US$ 50 will have to be paid for the processing of your request and also have to pay US$ 100 for an additional certificate with the new name on.
77. What is the procedure to issue duplicate certificate?
In case you lose your certificate and require a duplicate certificate a service request needs to be generated from your myCIMA dashboard. An additional fee of US$ 100 will have to be incurred by you.
78. What emergency scenarios are covered under the No Show policy?
There can be certain unavoidable circumstances due to which you are unable to appear for the examination, in such a case your appointment is declared as a no show.
If you miss a scheduled exam because of an emergency, feel free to directly Contact Us through an email with the appropriate reason. Below are the acceptable reasons for missing your scheduled exam:
*Immediate family members here refer to:
If you miss an exam for any of the above-mentioned reasons, you are required to Contact Us through an email. An incident number will be provided to you to send the necessary documentation required by CIMA Institute. Once the required documents are submitted, the request will be thoroughly reviewed, and the decision will be taken accordingly by the CIMA Institute. You will further be intimated on the result of your request.
Please be informed on the documents that are accepted against the reason of emergency:
For cases/ scenarios of no-shows not listed under our no-show policies, it will be considered as exam attempt and you have to pay US$ 250 exam resit fee.
Please note: The following events will be counted as an exam attempt and the candidate should reapply the exam attempt by paying the exam fee of US$ 250.
79. What should I do to leverage my CIMA® qualification best for my professional career?
