The Test of Professional Competence in Management Accounting (TOPCIMA) case study is unlike any other CIMA exam you have done. This paper is completely different and requires a whole new approach to pass. “What is this exam all about?” is probably what you are thinking.

What is TOPCIMA?

TOPCIMA is the final exam in the CIMA curriculum and is based upon a case study that is set within a simulated business context relating to an organisation. The examination provides an integrated test of the topics covered within the Strategic level and also draws upon content and learnings from the Management and Operational levels. This exam will primarily involve the application of strategic management accounting techniques to analyse, recommend and support decisions. As a student sitting the TOPCIMA exam, you will be required to integrate the knowledge and skills learnt to date.

TOPCIMA at Imperial College

The TOPCIMA exam is unlike any other exam done previously, which means there is more work to be done prior to the exam. Building up to the time when students receive the pre seen material, you will go through a series of steps that will ensure that you know what exactly needs to be done when you receive the pre seen material.

The key to passing the case study lies on the analysis of the pre seen including a detailed company and industry analysis, understanding the requirements of the report format required, understanding the criteria of the marking matrix, mastering time management, and developing a clear, logical and concise writing style. At Imperial College you will be able to That your ability to problem solving rather than simply applying technical aspects of Management Accounting

Develop a clear writing style and identify the correct report format Gain valuable knowledge on the particular industry being examined Conduct industry based research with a knowledge on grasping relevant information Find a list of potential issues while prioritising the challenges faced by the company based on urgency, impact and risk (from the unseen material)

Find an appropriate course of action for each issue identified which will be aimed at ensuring the company meets its financial and ethical objectives Understand the criteria of the marking matrix such as judgment, application, focus and logic Apply technical knowledge in an analytical and practical manner
Distinguish the relevant information from the irrelevant information provided in the case study
You will also be required to do mock exams with feedback provided. This will not only ensure that you put to use the capabilities and knowledge gathered, but will also ensure that you sit the final exam with sheer confidence.

The Lecturer

Making his way back into the TOPCIMA arena, Pravinth Rajaratnam, a most sought after lecturer takes on the reins to coach students for their final hurdle. An important aspect to tackle an exam such as TOPCIMA is the knowledge gained not only from the Strategic level but from the Management and Operational levels as that learning largely contributes to success at this exam. During his Financial Management classes, Pravinth strongly focuses on report writing. Students who have studied under him will vouch for his ability to ensure that students are thorough with clear and concise writing to a specified report format. Pravinth also has vast teaching experience, both at home and overseas coupled with industry knowledge that is more than adequate to help students pass.

Our achievements
At Imperial College, students are coached not only to pass exams, but to attain high standards. This was proven by Tharindra Gooneratne, who bagged the Sri Lankan Prize for TOPCIMA at the May 2010 examination diet. Winning this prize at a young age of 19, Tharindra had this to say, “The support of my lecturer and the one to one attention I received played a huge role in my achievement. At Imperial College, the focus is clear and each student benefits from superb coaching. The exposure to the industry stipulated in the case and the approach taken was great.”

Guidance from a ‘Mentor’ and the ‘best lecturer’ as his students describe him, assurance to gaining the knowledge, capabilities and skills required to tackle TOPCIMA, one to one coaching, a proven track record, ability to grasp the skills of thinking like a professional, exposure to the relevant industry and time management skills are some of the things Imperial College can do for you. With pass rates that have consistently been above Sri Lankan average don’t you think you have found the best place to follow TOPCIMA classes with an assurance to pass?

If you want to be among the cream of CIMA graduates call us on 0773 918 777 or 011 4 51 52 53 or visit us at No. 3, St. Kilda’s Lane, Colombo 3 to register for classes commencing on January 20. Differentiate yourself. Be a part of the Imperial College TOPCIMA experience.
Pravinth Rajaratnam

Tharindra Gooneratne, TOPCIMA Sri Lankan Prize Winner (May 2010)