Assessment Guidance Policy
Assessment Guidance Policy – Ref: AB/POL/0019/Sept14/V2
In total, it is required that the assessment should be between 1500 – 4500 words depending on
level (see below). Learners must comply with the required word count, within a margin of +/- 10%.
This applies to work assessed by the Centre and Externally Assessed by CMI.
These rules exclude the index (if used), headings, contents, information contained within
references and bibliographies (if used). When an assessment Task requires Learners to produce
presentation slides with supporting notes, the word count applies to the supporting notes only.
The word count of tables is excluded; however Learners should limit the word count usage in
tables.
The excessive use of word count in assignments is not grounds for referral, however CMI reserve
the right to return work to the Centre for editing and resubmission by the Learner.
There may be instances where Learners require reasonable adjustments for assessment,
including increased word count. In this instance, Learners should signpost their assessment to
highlight where assessment criteria has been met. For further information, please refer to the CMI
Reasonable Adjustments Procedure.
It would be good practice for Learners to state the total word count on the front of their
assessment. Learners should also endeavour, where possible, to use Microsoft Word or Rich
Text Format for their assessments.
If a Learner is resubmitting a referred assignment, word counts should still be adhered to. It is
good practice for Learners to highlight in some way, either by different colour or typeface, the
amended areas of the assignment.
CMI provide Centres with guidance on word counts at each level, with a margin of +/- 10%.
Level 2 = 1500 - 2000
Level 3 = 2000 - 2500
Level 4 = 2500 - 3000
Level 5 = 2500 - 3000
Level 6 = 2500 - 3000
Level 7 = 3000 - 3500
Level 8 = 4000 - 4500
Appendices Guidance
Learner work should aim to minimise the amount of unnecessary attachments or appendices.
Information that is essential to the Learners work in order to meet the Assessment Criteria should
be included within the main body of the report. This applies to work assessed by the Centre and
Externally Assessed by CMI. Appendices that are included will not be moderated or marked by
CMI.
Assessment Guidance Policy
All use of tables, graphs, diagrams, Gantt chart and flowcharts should be incorporated into the
main text of the assignment, but not included in the word count. Any published secondary
information such as annual reports and company literature, should be referenced in the main text
of the assignment but not included.
Referencing Guidance
A professional approach to work is expected from all Learners. Learners must therefore identify
and acknowledge all sources/methodologies/applications used, in accordance with the CMI
Plagiarism and Collusion Statement. The Learner must use an appropriate referencing system to
achieve this.
Bibliography Guidance
CMI does not require Learners to include a bibliography with their assignments, however all
sources/methodology/applications should be acknowledged in accordance in the CMI Plagiarism
and Collusion Statement. The Learner must use an appropriate referencing system to achieve
this.