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Qualification process
The following gives information on CIMA’s qualifications and how to start your CIMA studies.
The CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting
This is CIMA’s own entry route to the Professional Qualification.
If you are new to accounting then you must complete the CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting before moving on. It will introduce you to the concept of management accounting and give the basics of accounting and business.
If you have already studied a relevant qualification - such as a degree or a professional qualification in accounting or business - we may grant you exemptions from some (or all) of the five papers at the Certificate level.
The CIMA Professional Qualification
This specialises in accounting for business and is recognised by employers around the world. There are three learning streams:
- management accounting
- business management
- financial management
To gain direct entry to the CIMA Professional qualification you will need to have completed the CIMA Certificate in Business Accounting.
Or, if you have already studied a relevant qualification - such as a degree or a professional qualification in accounting or business subjects - you may be given exemptions from the five papers at Certificate level. This will allow you direct entry to the Professional Qualification.
You must complete all exams and at least three years’ relevant practical experience to qualify as a Chartered Management Accountant. Some highly relevant degree programmes and other qualifications are eligible for exemptions from the Professional Qualification. Find out more about entry to the qualification and look up your qualification on our accreditation database.
Training
The CIMA Professional Qualification is a practical qualification and we recommend that you combine studying for CIMA with relevant employment. This will ensure that you apply your new skills in the workplace. It should also help you to progress quickly through the qualification. 68% of current CIMA students receive financial support from their employers allowing them to get the most out of their work and studies.
You can work in any company and in any industry. CIMA Training is an employer recognition scheme that encourages and recognises the quality of training employers give. When looking for an employer think about the support they offer. Training towards a professional qualification is a big commitment. The support given by employers differs but often includes:
- financial sponsorship
- study leave
- mentoring
- structured training programmes.
Look at our list of CIMA Training Partner employers for further information on the range of industries where CIMA students and members are working.
For current job vacancies and information on how to find CIMA training positions visit the careers section of the website.
Studying
Students study for CIMA in different ways. Many combine working with studying and will attend part time classes in the evening or at weekends. Others will study full time or by distance learning. There is no best way to study so plan around your own personal circumstances.
Attending tuition classes, with a provider which has been approved on our CIMA Learning accreditation scheme, is the most effective way of studying. You will benefit from an experienced lecturer with expertise in CIMA and have the opportunity to meet and share knowledge with other CIMA students. Find your nearest CIMA study centre.
Other useful methods of study are the CIMA Learning Systems. These are endorsed by CIMA examiners and fully support the CIMA syllabus. They include practice questions, pilot papers, solutions and a full revision section.
For more information and to order your CIMA Study Systems visit CIMA Publishing.
