To become CIMA-certified, all candidates must:
- Submit an application (fee included) to the Investments & Wealth Institute.
- Pass a background check.
- Complete an approved executive education program.
- Pass the CIMA® certification exam.
- Pass a secondary background check and demonstrate at least 3 years of relevant work experience.
- Sign a License Agreement and pay an initial Certification Fee.
Application Fees
| Current Member | Becoming a Member | Nonmember | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee (USD) | $600 | $995 | $1,095 |
| Includes |
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Registered Education Provider Fee
Candidates who pass the initial application phase must complete an executive education program from one of the following institutions:
- Yale School of Management (US)
- Wharton School University of Pennsylvania (US)
- University of Chicago Booth School of Business (US)
- Portfolio Construction Forum (AUS)
Visit the Investments & Wealth Institute website for more information on executive education costs.
Re-Take Fee (If Necessary)
Candidates must wait at least 30 days before re-attempting the CIMA® exam.
| Member | Nonmember | |
|---|---|---|
| Fee (USD) | $225 | $325 |
Initial Licensing Fee Upon Certification Completion
| Current Member | Becoming a Member | Nonmember | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee (USD) | $275 | $620 | $895 |
Renewal Fee
Upon earning your CIMA® certification, you are required to renew your credential every 2 years. Visit the Investments & Wealth Institute website for more information.
CIMA® Investment (and Why the Credential is Worth It)
According to the IWI, the cost to obtain the CIMA designation—including all fees, executive education, and exam prep—ranges from $5,000 to $9,000. This is a sizable investment, but consider the potential for return based on these figures from IWI:
- $380k average earnings
- $297 million average AUM
- 75% client wallet share
CIMA-certified advisors also report increased confidence, competence, and compensation compared to other financial advisors.
