CGMA Professional Qualification offered by CIMA — what is it and what are the benefits?
The Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation, offered by CIMA, is the premier management accounting credential that combines expertise in finance and business. It’s designed for individuals who want to make sound business decisions, analyze data, and support strategic initiatives across industries.
Holding a CGMA designation gives you a real advantage in the job market. It provides access to a global community of experts, increases your appeal to employers, and opens doors to international career opportunities. Additionally, research shows that CGMA-qualified professionals often earn higher salaries and advance more quickly into leadership roles.
What are the levels of the CGMA qualification?
The entry-level qualification is the Certificate in Business Accounting (Cert BA). It’s an excellent starting point for students who want to combine financial knowledge with a practical approach to business management. By studying the Certificate in Business Accounting, you’ll come away equipped with a solid understanding of fundamental accounting, management and business principles to kick-start your career in the world of business and finance. You’ll develop skills in financial reporting, forecasting, data analysis and more!
The Certificate in Business Accounting is made up of four subjects:
- BA1 - Fundamental of business economics
- BA2 - Fundamentals of management accounting
- BA3 - Fundamentals of financial accounting
- BA4 - Fundamentals of ethics, corporate governance and business law
When you have completed all exams (or qualified through exemptions) and obtain the Certificate in Business Accounting, you can progress on to the CGMA Professional Qualification.
The Professional Qualification continues to bridge the skills gap of newly qualified finance professionals worldwide, meeting the employability needs of both business and people. In an increasingly digital world it is imperative that finance professionals not only possess sound technical accounting and finance skills, but can also understand how digitalization and rapid changes in technology are creating challenges, and opportunities, for organisations.
The CGMA Professional Qualification path is built on three pillars:
- Enterprise (E) – how organizations operate
- Performance (P) – how to measure and improve efficiency
- Financial (F) – how to manage finances and report results
Each pillar is divided into three levels: Operational, Management, and Strategic. At each level, candidates must pass an Objective Test and then a Case Study exam to complete the level. Upon passing, they receive a diploma confirming their competencies.
Thanks to the CGMA University Program, students enrolled in CIMA-accredited courses can begin earning these qualifications during their studies. At the undergraduate level, students can earn the Certificate in Business Accounting by passing one external exam (BA2). At the graduate level, they can earn the CIMA Diploma in Management Accounting by passing the Operational Case Study. Importantly, some exams are automatically credited through exemptions, making it easier and faster to obtain the certificate.
How to earn a certificate from CIMA?
1. Choose an accredited program
CIMA University Partners offer special programs where course content aligns with CGMA exam requirements. This means you may be eligible for exemptions from certain CGMA exams.
2. Register with CIMA
Enrollment takes place throughout November. Complete the application form at cimauniversities.com and register as a CGMA candidate by paying the registration fee. Universities often assist with this process or organize informational sessions.
3. Pass one external exam
To earn the Certificate in Business Accounting (Cert BA), you only need to pass one external exam — BA2 Fundamentals of Management Accounting. The exam can be taken in person or online at a time that suits you.
4. Obtain your certificate!
After passing the exam and receiving exemptions for the remaining ones, you’ll be awarded the Certificate in Business Accounting — the first step toward full CGMA qualification.
5. Continue at the graduate level
If you choose to pursue a master’s degree at the same university (or another CIMA-accredited institution), you can earn the next level — CIMA Diploma in Management Accounting - also with partial exemptions and one external exam (Operational Case Study).
Does having a CGMA qualification matter in the job market?
By earning the CGMA qualification, you develop practical financial management skills, learn strategic thinking, and gain a deeper understanding of how businesses operate. The CGMA designation isn’t just prestigious - it’s practical knowledge that benefits any business career.
According to a Randstad report for CIMA, professionals with qualifications like CGMA earn on average 16% to 25% more than those without. It’s a real advantage in the job market and a chance for faster career growth.
- 21.3% – CFOs
- 16.7% – Finance Managers
- 25% – Chief Accountants
- 16.3% – Controlling Managers
- 20% – Financial Controllers
CGMA University Program: Testimonials
Why is it worth starting the CGMA qualification while at university? Anna Fester, ACMA, CGMA shares her story.
Summary: Is it worth earning the CGMA certificate/diploma from CIMA?
Earning the qualification can open doors to an international career, as it’s a globally recognized standard of excellence and proof of strong business knowledge and English proficiency. Stand out with a professional qualification recognized worldwide by employers and earn your CIMA diploma as part of your studies.
