Q: I´m xxx, 25 years old, I have a master degree in business and I´m currently working in Germany as a procurement officer. My contract ends in one year and I would like to take the CIPS exam before the end of my contract. I would like to start from level 3 or 4 but I wonder how much personal work it requires as I´m already taking German courses after work…
Also I would like to know if the application process is long or not..
A:
Very nice to hear from you. CIPS is definitely worth taking on especially that you are working in Germany. From your explanation:
-You would start CIPS at level 4 which has 5 modules. You go to level 5 once you have passed the level 4 exams.
-CIPS exams are well streched out so you can pace yourself e.g sit one exam in July and maybe two in November etc there is no need to rush CIPS because the preparation also takes time.
-Self study is pretty straight forward, register as a student, buy the books, read and register for exams when you want. All past papers are on the site for free download.
-Studying for CIPS can seem like alot of work but depends how important it is for you. You have the discipline to prepare and the best thing is you dont have to sit for many exams at one go. Prepare for one do the exam see how it goes then pace the rest and set deadlines for yourself. Its taken me almost 4 years yo get to level 6 i sitvmy final CIPS exam on Monday. I worked fulltime and had many life issues. For some exams sittings i didnt even register for any exam because i was not ready.
– Application process is not long go to www.cips.org register as a student member get the level 4 books and then register for exams once they open the exam registration.
-Self study is 100% possible you dont need the elearn or college classes that will be unnecessary cost.
If you have further questions you can email cips directly on crc@cips.org