Top tips for CIMA resits

Didn’t pass your CIMA exam first time? You’re not alone – and you’re not out of the game. Plenty of successful CIMA students have had to retake at least one exam. What matters now is how you bounce back.

Here are some practical tips to help you reset and refocus ahead of your resit.

1. Review your exam results and feedback

Before diving back into revision, take some time to reflect. Use your results report and any feedback to understand what went wrong. Did you run out of time? Were there certain topics you found especially tricky?

Being honest with yourself at this stage can help you build a smarter revision plan and avoid the same mistakes next time.

2. Identify your weak spots

It’s tempting to revise everything again from scratch, but that’s not always the most effective approach. Focus your time and energy on the areas where you struggled most – these are where you’re most likely to pick up extra marks.

If you’re not sure where your gaps are, try a mock exam or practice questions to see what trips you up.

3. Refresh your exam technique

Knowing the content is important, but so is knowing how to approach the exam itself. Make sure you practise under timed conditions, especially if timing was an issue last time.

Look at examiner reports for your paper – they often include useful insights about common mistakes and what markers are looking for.

4. Find the right support

If you prepared on your own before, consider joining a course or tutor-supported option for your resit. Having expert guidance and structure can make a big difference.

5. Be kind to yourself

Resits can knock your confidence, but remember: failing once doesn’t define your ability. You’ve already put in a lot of hard work – now it’s about refining your approach and going again, stronger.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you want a full course or just targeted support, we’ve got options to help you prepare with confidence. Explore our CIMA courses.