CIMA – FAQ

CIMA – FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How is CIMA different?

Most accounting qualifications train you for private practice, working on audit and tax issues. CIMA prepares you for a career in business.
Learn more about how CIMA is different from other finance qualifications.

Will studying CIMA help me get a job?

CIMA-trained people work in industry, commerce, management consultancies, banks and not for profit and public sector organisations. Many of our members work in prestigious, high paying roles.

Read case studies about the varied jobs CIMA students and members do.

Where can I work with CIMA?
All around the world. We have 171,000 members and students working in 165 countries.

CIMA at a glance: fees, salaries, jobs

How long does the certificate in business accounting take?
The five certificate exams are studied and tested at your own pace.
On average, students take one year to complete this level.

CIMA Salary surveys

CIMA’s salary surveys look at the salaries and bonuses paid to CIMA members and students.

How long does the CIMA professional qualification take?

On average, students complete the ten professional qualification exams in four years.
Most students attempt two or three exams at each sitting but they can be completed in three sittings.

CIMA Practical experience requirement

You need three years’ experience before you can become a CIMA member. You can gain this experience while studying.

How much will it cost?

CIMA students pay a one-time registration fee, an annual subscription fee, and a fee for each exam or exemption.

So, if it takes you three years to complete CIMA and you pass every exam on the first attempt, it will cost around £1200.

You also need to take into account the cost of study materials and any tuition classes you enrol in.

Please note: As of 1 July 2010, new students will not have to pay their first subscription (£94) upon registration.

Where can I study?

You can study anywhere in the world.

You just need to be sure you get to one of the CIMA worldwide computer based assessment centres to sit certificate in business accounting assessments and one of the exam centres to sit professional qualification exams.

How can I study?

You can study with a tuition provider, on your own at home, or using a combination of methods.