Unlock Your CIMA Success
Pass Your CIMA Exams In 2025
Explore the latest trends, key stats and crucial exam advice before you head into your studies and learn what it takes to pass the CIMA exams in 2025!
CIMA Exam Insights
Stats from our latest CIMA exam survey titled: “What does it take to pass the CIMA exams?”
% of students spent 8 or more weeks preparing for their last exam
% of students allocated 10 or more hours to their CIMA studies each week
% of students have failed the CIMA P1 exam - more than any other
% of students feel that they didn't do enough studying for their last exam
Essential Study Tools for CIMA Students
Easy-to-follow study texts
Study texts provide the foundational knowledge required for each exam level, presenting the syllabus in a structured and digestible format. Their clarity helps students grasp key concepts without being overwhelmed by complexity. A good study text balances theory with real-world application, helping you bridge the gap between learning and practical use.
Mock exams & practice questions
Mock exams and practice questions are essential for exam preparation as they simulate the actual test environment. They help students identify strengths, pinpoint weaknesses, and improve time management. By working through a variety of questions, you become more familiar with the format and the application of concepts.
Exam technique guides
Knowing the content isn’t enough; you need to understand how to approach questions effectively. Exam technique guides focus on strategies like structuring answers, managing time, and prioritising high-scoring tasks. For case studies, they’re invaluable in teaching you how to integrate the pre-seen material and address examiner expectations.
Expert support
Access to expert tutors or mentors is a game-changer, especially when tackling complex topics or clarifying doubts. Experts can provide personalised guidance, help you refine your study strategy, and share insights into the common pitfalls students face. This tailored support often boosts confidence and enhances overall performance.
Objective Test Pass Rates
Average pass rates between 1st November 2022 and 30th November 2023
%
Average Certificate Level Exam Pass Rate
%
Average E-Pillar Exam Pass Rate
%
Average F-Pillar Exam Pass Rate
%
Average P-Pillar Exam Pass Rate
Common Questions From CIMA Students
Preparing for your CIMA exams can be challenging, but with the right guidance, you can navigate it successfully. Here are some common questions students ask about exam preparation, along with our expert answers.
How should I structure my study schedule for CIMA exams?
It’s crucial to create a balanced study schedule that allocates time for each subject based on your strengths and weaknesses. Aim for consistent daily study sessions and incorporate regular review periods to reinforce your learning.
What resources are most effective for CIMA exam preparation?
Utilise a mix of study texts, practice questions, and mock exams. Astranti’s resources are designed to simplify complex topics, provide comprehensive coverage of the syllabus, and give you the skills you need to nail the exams themselves.
How can I manage exam stress effectively?
Practice mindfulness techniques, ensure you get adequate rest, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks and reward yourself for achieving small milestones.
What are some tips for the day of the exam?
Ensure you have all necessary materials ready the night before. Arrive early to the exam center, stay calm, and read each question carefully before answering. Trust in your preparation and stay focused.
2024 Case Study Pass Rates
%
August 2024 OCS
%
August 2024 MCS
%
August 2024 SCS
%
May 2024 OCS
%
May 2024 MCS
%
May 2024 SCS
%
February 2024 OCS
%
February 2024 MCS
%
February 2024 SCS
Key Student Challenges
One of the biggest challenges is managing time during the exams. Whether it’s the objective tests or case studies, I often felt rushed and struggled to complete all the questions. Practising timed mock exams helped, but in the actual exam, the pressure can throw you off balance. Start early with time-bound practice to build confidence.
Certain topics, like variances in P1 or complex group structures in F2, were tough for me to grasp. I kept revisiting the material but often felt unprepared for curveball questions. To overcome this, I focused on smaller, targeted study sessions and used video tutorials for detailed explanations.
For the case studies, knowing what the examiner is looking for can feel overwhelming. Sometimes I answered based on general knowledge instead of linking it back to the pre-seen material or the syllabus concepts. Take the time to analyse the pre-seen document in depth and practise applying your knowledge to possible scenarios.
The sheer volume of topics can make studying feel endless, and it’s easy to jump between chapters without fully absorbing the material. For me, sticking to a clear schedule and breaking down the syllabus into manageable chunks made it less daunting. Using revision kits and summary notes helped reinforce key points.
Even after weeks of studying, I found myself freezing up on exam day. The pressure of performing well can really get to you. Practising under exam conditions and learning some stress management techniques, like breathing exercises, made a big difference for me. Remember, it’s okay to pause for a moment and gather your thoughts during the exam.
10 Tactics For Effective Studies
Average pass rates between 1st November 2022 and 30th November 2023
Start Early & Plan Ahead
Understand the Exam Structure
Master Time Management
Use Active Study Techniques
Stay Organised
Minimise Distractions
Take Regular Breaks
Prioritise Sleep
Manage Exam Stress
Stay Positive and Resilient
What About The CIMA FLP Route?
We’ve asked Astranti FLP students about their experiences with the FLP route, CIMA’s FLP platform, and what advice they might give to other CIMA students considering switching to the FLP route – here are some of the most comprehensive responses we received…
If you're looking for more flexibility...
…and life balance it’s great, however, more challenging when it comes to the case study as the same amount of material is examinable
FLP covers the same content...
…and reduces your stess levels as the OTs are excluded. It makes the course more enjoyable as well
The two main factors are...
…affordability and time factor. FLP enables you to complete the entire course faster and some have even done it within 1 year . But not all may be able to afford it . Revision before CS exams are a must as one is more likely to forget the topics learned in FLP than what one has learned in OTs
FLP is for people who can...
…organise well their study time. As the access is one year and exam availability are limited so it has to be planned. I do 10-15 hours a week to meet my target. (At least 8 topics per week) You will need to be diligent and consistent.
Overall I would recommend FLP...
…over the traditional route if you can afford it. However you must be self motivated/have the support group to help keep you on track. For with the FLP route it’s easier to look at a topic, not really understand it and move on, which may put you in a difficult position, if that topic comes up in the case study exam. Whereas with OT, you may revisit a topic multiple times for you know it’s more likely to come up and may be the difference between passing or failing the exam.
% of students said the biggest factor for them when joining the CIMA FLP route was the fact there are no objective test exams
% of students said they were 'extremely happy' with their decision to join the CIMA FLP route (conversely 0% said they were 'Not at all happy')
% would recommend Astranti FLP to other students
Boost Your CIMA Success with Premium Resources
Unlock your full potential with our expertly crafted courses and study materials. Elevate your exam preparation and gain the confidence you need to excel in your CIMA exams. Join thousands of successful students who have transformed their study experience with Astranti.
