CIMA (Chartered Global Management Accountant)

What it is

CIMA stands for the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, now part of AICPA & CIMA. Passing it makes you a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). Unlike audit-focused routes, CIMA is built for accountants who work inside businesses, guiding budgets, forecasts and commercial decisions rather than signing off external audits.

Who it suits

CIMA suits people who want a chartered qualification but do not yet have an employer lined up or a UK degree. Anyone can register and start studying. It fits those aiming at company finance, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), or commercial roles, and much of that work can be done in an office or remotely. You do need reasonable English and steady commitment.

How you qualify

1. Register with CIMA and start with the Certificate in Business Accounting (four objective tests) unless you qualify for exemptions.
2. Work through three levels: Operational, Management and Strategic.
3. At each level, pass the objective tests, then a case study exam that mirrors real workplace situations.
4. Build up three years of relevant practical experience, which you can gather alongside your studies.

You do not need an employer to begin, which is why many people start CIMA while looking for finance work.

Cost and how long it takes

Registration is a one-off £99 that covers your first year. After that the annual subscription is about £150. Exams cost roughly £90 each at Certificate level, £130 to £185 for objective tests higher up, and £231 to £303 for the case studies. Add study materials and the whole qualification typically costs £2,500 to £5,000 and takes three to four years. Exemptions for prior study are free and can save time and money.

The English you need

You need solid English to pass written objective tests and, especially, the case studies, where you read a business scenario and write structured answers. It is demanding, but a little more forgiving than heavy audit and law exams. Aim for a good intermediate level, and consider an ESOL or business-English course first if you are not there yet.

The honest reality

CIMA is open and flexible, but it is still a serious multi-year commitment, and the case study exams trip up many people. The qualification opens doors, yet employers also want real experience, so pair your studying with a finance or bookkeeping job if you can. It will not turn into a salary overnight, and passing every exam first time is uncommon.

What you can earn

Part-qualified students in finance roles often earn around £28,000 to £40,000. Newly qualified CIMA accountants are estimated at roughly £45,000 to £65,000, and experienced managers and finance leaders earn considerably more. These are estimates only, vary by industry, and are higher in London.

Your next step

Go to the AICPA & CIMA website, check whether your past study earns you exemptions, and register for the Certificate in Business Accounting. At the same time, look for an entry finance role, assistant accountant or finance assistant, so you are gaining the experience the qualification also requires. If your English needs work, book an ESOL or business-English course before your first exam.