Certified Investment Management Analyst® (CIMA®) is the international certification for financial advisors and investment consultants and one of the only professional certifications in financial services to meet international accreditation and quality standards. CIMA advisors learn sophisticated, technical investment concepts and how to apply them for individual and institutional clients. The average time commitment to complete the CIMA program is nine months, and fewer than four out of 10 candidates who start the program successfully pass all requirements to earn the certification. The CIMA Certification requires advisors to meet rigorous standards:
- EXPERIENCE At least three years of relevant financial services experience and a clean regulatory record.
- ETHICS Comply with the Institute Code of Professional Responsibility or lose the certification.
- EDUCATION Complete executive education at a top 25 global business school.
- EXAM Pass a stringent five–hour examination.
- CONTINUING COMPETENCY Stay updated on industry trends, laws, and products with 40 hours of continuing education every two years, including two hours of ethics education
A Financial Advisor who has earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) designation has demonstrated skill in analyzing and developing personal, long-term financial strategies. A CFP® professional has completed hundreds of hours of rigorous courses and examinations offered by various colleges and universities across the country. These courses are then followed by a 10-hour comprehensive examination administered according to the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. The qualification process, comprehensive array of advice, and skill-based approach distinguish CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) practitioners from other professional advisors, who typically focus on only one area of a client’s financial life.
The AWMA® program is designed for financial professionals who want to better address the unique needs of high-net-worth clients. Professionals who hold this designation have completed an online self-study AWMA course and exam with a curriculum containing sections dedicated to behavioral finance, working with small business owners, and succession/exit planning.