If you're considering the CIMA Finance Leadership Programme (FLP) as your route to becoming a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), you're not alone. 

The FLP programme offers a flexible, digital-first alternative to CIMA’s traditional route, and it's gaining popularity fast. With a new format comes new questions. Here are some of the common questions our student advisors receive from students.

 

1. How many levels can you complete in one year?

 

The FLP is self-paced, meaning you can progress as quickly or as gradually as you like.

In theory, it's possible to complete all three levels, (Operational, Management, and Strategic) with a one year subscription. Although this has been done before, it is extremely challenging and will put you under immense pressure. This time pressure will also mean that there is no room for rewrites if you are unsuccessful with your first attempt at a case study exam.  

Our student advisors recommend:

One Year FLP Subscription - Complete two levels (two case study exams).

Two Year FLP Subscription - Complete three levels (three case study exams).

Three Year FLP Subscription - Complete four levels (three case study exams + Foundation Level).

 

2. What does the FLP subscription fee include?

 

  • Your CIMA FLP subscription fee includes:
  • Access to all four levels of the CIMA qualification
  • CIMA registration and CIMA subscription fee
  • Access to CIMA’s FLP Portal with official CIMA learning materials
  • Interactive learning platform with videos, quizzes and exam practice questions
  • CIMA Case Study exam preparation material and mock exam 
  • Six CIMA Case Study exam tokens (two per level, in case you need to rewrite)

 

3. When is the ideal time to start my subscription?

 

The best months to start your CIMA FLP subscription are February, May, August, and November.

Spot the pattern? These are the months in which the CIMA Case Study exams are held.

Starting your subscription in one of these key months gives you the best possible runway to plan and prepare. Case study exams happen every three months, so enrolling at the right time ensures you have sufficient time to work through the syllabus and aim for the next sitting.

This timing also gives you up to four chances to sit your Case Study exams within a standard 12-month subscription. That’s especially important if you need to retake an exam, as you won’t have to wait long before trying again. 

 

4. Do you get the same qualification as the traditional route?

 

Yes! Whether you choose the FLP or the traditional exam route, you’ll earn the same globally recognised CIMA qualification and CGMA designation. The difference lies in the learning experience, not in the outcome.

 

5. Do you cover the same topics as the traditional route?

 

Absolutely! CIMA's Finance Leadership Programme is built around the same syllabus and competencies as the traditional route. You’ll gain the same knowledge and skills, just through a more modern, digital learning platform.

 

6. What study material do I receive?

 

On the CIMA FLP platform, you’ll get access to:

  • Digital learning modules for each subject
  • Videos, quizzes, and interactive exercises
  • Practice questions and mock exams
  • Case study preparation resources
  • Progress tracking tools to monitor your learning
  • All materials are available online, so you can study anytime, anywhere.

 

 The CIMA FLP offers an accelerated route for aspiring management accountants who want a more flexible, modern approach to CIMA’s professional qualification. It maintains the same rigorous standards and global recognition, and is an excellent option for self-motivated learners.

At IBTC, we are proudly home to South Africa’s largest FLP cohort, with an average pass rate of 71% - far ahead of global averages. If you would like to find out more about our CIMA FLP programmes, simply complete the form below.

Please note that it can take up to 2 working days to receive an answer.