The long-awaited arrival of computer-based exams (part 2)
Following on from last week’s post about new computer-based assessment for ACA students, this week we’re giving you an update and refresher on the status of computer-based assessments for CIMA. […]
Following on from last week’s post about new computer-based assessment for ACA students, this week we’re giving you an update and refresher on the status of computer-based assessments for CIMA.
What’s actually changed?
As industry is moving towards more computer-based working, you can now take all Certificate level exams (C01, C02, C03, C04 and C05) via computer-based assessment, and at any time. There is no need to wait until a specific time of year to sit specific papers. The Certificate level syllabus still comprises five subjects, with one exam for each subject, and all five exams must be passed to complete the level. The five exams can be taken in any order.
The Professional Qualification can now also be assessed via computer, with objective tests for each of the three subjects within each level. These are also on demand and can be taken at any time at an approved examination centre. However, the case study assessment (which is only available once all objective tests have been competed) follows the more traditional method, and is only available at four windows per year.
Objective test assessments
The new format of objective test assessments via computer means these exams are now 90 minutes long (previously 180 minutes), and they have been designed specifically to be able to test more in a shorter space of time. Therefore you should still expect to be tested on knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis and evaluation as relevant to each question.
Computer literacy
CIMA state that their computer-based assessments are not intended to be a test of computing or typing skills, and that entrants will not need experience of any specific accounting or office software applications (except where this is specified in the syllabus content). Basic IT skills acquired using computers throughout your education, work or social life will usually be more than adequate. They have provided a handy computer literacy guide for students if you’d like to find out more about what’s expected.
CIMA Practice Exams
For those unfamiliar with or unsure about taking computer-based exams, there are some great resources out there to help you get more comfortable with them before the big day. CIMA practice exams give you the opportunity to explore this new technology and become familiar with the system and question types, so you can be more confident in your abilities when you sit your exam. Take a look at this handy Study Material, view some Model answers or take these Tutorials for Objective Tests and Integrated Case Studies (including Gateway) – MSI format.
Some CIMA modules (and hence, their exams) will be changing over the coming months, so watch this space for more on those, or speak to one of our staff for details.
