CIMA® Program Overview
Join the nearly 9,000 CIMA certificate-holders world-wide—enhance your credibility with high-net-worth clients, elevate your career, and stand out from your peers. Get started now.
Why Become a CIMA Certificate-Holder?
According to the Investments & Wealth Institute, members cite:
- Advanced knowledge of investment management.
- More confidence when offering investment advice to clients.
- Higher career satisfaction.
- Better client trust and satisfaction with services.
- More opportunities for career advancement.
- Increased satisfaction with their employers.
Thanks to the executive education requirement and rigorous certification process, the CIMA® designation is an opportunity to differentiate yourself as an elite advisor with top-tier investment management skills.
To learn more about the overall application, exam scheduling, and certification upkeep processes, click here.
About the CIMA® Exam
The CIMA® exam is 5-hours long and consists of 140 total multiple-choice questions. 125 questions are scored, while 15 are non-scored pretest questions. Candidates are permitted to use select calculators and the IWI’s approved Sample Formula Sheet at the time of testing. Prior to sitting for your exam, a minimum of 150 hours of study time is recommended.
| Exam Percentage | Curriculum Domain | Sections |
|---|---|---|
| 15% | Fundamentals |
|
| 20% | Investments |
|
| 20% | Portfolio Theory and Behavioral Finance |
|
| 20% | Risk and Return |
|
| 25% | Portfolio Construction and Consulting Process |
|
About Current CIMA® Certificate-Holders
Check out some fast facts regarding current CIMA® certificate-holders.
- Average age: 48
- Average industry experience (finance/investment): 12+ years
- Gender (disclosed): 85% male, 15% female
These professionals typically work in:
- Investment Management
- Wealth Management
- Brokerages
- Private Banking
- Trust Services
- Intergenerational Planning
- Estate Planning
Ready to begin studying for your CIMA® exam? Explore the Wiley CIMA® Exam Review Course offered in partnership with the Investments and Wealth Institute.