CIMA FLP vs CIMA Traditional

CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) offers two main pathways for individuals pursuing their professional qualification: the CIMA Professional Qualification (also known as the traditional route) and the CIMA Finance Leadership Program (FLP). Here are the key differences between the two:

  1. Structure and curriculum:

    • CIMA Professional Qualification: The traditional route consists of four levels—Operational, Management, Strategic, and Professional Competence. Each level has a set of objective tests and case study exams. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics related to management accounting, finance, and business strategy.
    • CIMA Finance Leadership Program: The FLP is a specialized program designed for individuals interested in finance leadership roles. It includes the CIMA Professional Qualification but also offers additional leadership and business skills training. The FLP focuses on developing strategic thinking, business acumen, and leadership capabilities in addition to technical finance skills.

  2. Emphasis on leadership and business skills:

    • CIMA Professional Qualification: While the traditional route provides a solid foundation in technical accounting and finance knowledge, it primarily focuses on the technical aspects of the profession.
    • CIMA Finance Leadership Program: The FLP places a greater emphasis on developing leadership and business skills. It aims to prepare individuals for senior finance roles, where they need to demonstrate strategic thinking, financial acumen, and the ability to drive organizational success.

  3. Duration and flexibility:

    • CIMA Professional Qualification: The traditional route can be completed at the candidate's own pace, allowing for flexibility in terms of study duration. The time required to complete the qualification depends on individual circumstances and study commitment.
    • CIMA Finance Leadership Program: The FLP has a defined duration of three years, which includes the completion of the CIMA Professional Qualification and the additional leadership and business skills training. The program has a structured timeline and specific requirements to be fulfilled within the designated timeframe.

  4. Entry requirements:

    • CIMA Professional Qualification: The traditional route typically requires a relevant academic qualification (such as a degree) or professional experience in a related field. CIMA offers exemptions for certain academic qualifications or professional certifications.
    • CIMA Finance Leadership Program: The FLP has more stringent entry requirements compared to the traditional route. It usually requires a higher level of academic qualification or significant relevant work experience to be eligible for the program.
    • However in 2023 CIMA changed this by adding the foundation requirement for students in FLP, this allows students with SPM or IGCSE qualifications to join CIMA directly
  5. Cost
  • The cost for CIMA traditional was on piecemeal basis where there is an annual payment for subscription; exam fee and also tuition fee for each subject (9) and the case studies (3)
  • The cost for CIMA FLP is lower since it has a bundled package which includes the subscription fee; exam fee tuition fee for the papers all in - £2,000 for one year with 2 exams per case study (optional tuition fee only for the cases) - (3)

Both pathways lead to the CIMA professional designation and provide valuable skills and knowledge in the field of management accounting and finance. The choice between the traditional route and the Finance Leadership Program depends on your career aspirations, interests, and the specific skills you aim to develop.

If you want to be faster to graduate and worried about the need for auditing knowledge - top up the CIMA with a CertISA; you will be good to go.




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