How to Schedule CMA Exam: Step-by-Step Guide to Book Your CMA Exam Successfully

Accounting

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation is a globally recognized credential for finance and accounting professionals. Earning the CMA demonstrates your mastery in financial planning, analysis, control, and decision support. Once you’ve prepared for the exam, the next critical step is scheduling it.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about scheduling the CMA exam—exam windows, registration process, deadlines, fees, and best practices to make the process smooth and stress-free.

What is the CMA Exam?

The CMA exam, administered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), is a two-part exam designed to test your knowledge and skills in management accounting. These parts are:

• Part 1: Financial Planning, Performance, and Analytics
  
  

• Part 2: Strategic Financial Management
  
  

Each part consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and two essay questions. Candidates can take each part separately and schedule them during specific testing windows throughout the year.

Before you can schedule your CMA exam, you must be a registered candidate with the IMA and meet the CMA exam requirements.

CMA Exam Testing Windows

The CMA exam is offered during three annual testing windows:

• January – February
  
  

• May – June
  
  

• September – October
  
  

You can only sit for the exam during these windows, so it’s important to plan your study and registration timeline accordingly. Registration typically opens several months before each testing window and closes about one month before the window ends.

Step-by-Step Process to Schedule the CMA Exam

Here’s how to schedule your CMA exam from start to finish:

1. Enroll in the CMA Program

Before scheduling the exam, you must become a CMA candidate by enrolling in the CMA program through the IMA. Here’s how:

• Visit the IMA website and sign up for IMA membership.
  
  

• Pay the CMA entrance fee and become an active candidate.
  
  

Only after completing this step can you register for the exam.

2. Choose Which Part to Take First

You don’t need to take Part 1 before Part 2—you can take the parts in any order. Decide which part you want to tackle based on your strengths, study schedule, or available exam prep resources.

3. Register for the Exam with the IMA

Once you’ve selected which part to take, you must register through your IMA account.

• Log in to your IMA profile.
  
  

• Go to the CMA candidate section.
  
  

• Select the exam part and pay the exam registration fee.
  
  

Current exam fees (as of 2025):

• CMA exam fee (per part): $460 (for professionals), $345 (for students)
  
  

After registration, you’ll receive an authorization email with your Exam Authorization Number and instructions to schedule the exam with Prometric.

4. Schedule Your Exam with Prometric

Prometric is the official testing partner for the CMA exam. Here’s how to book your slot:

• Visit the Prometric website
  
  

• Select your testing region and preferred test center or online proctoring (if available).
  
  

• Use your Exam Authorization Number to search available slots during your chosen testing window.
  
  

• Choose a date, time, and location.
  
  

• Confirm your appointment and receive an email confirmation.
  
  

Make sure to double-check your name and exam details on the confirmation to avoid issues on test day.

5. Plan Your Exam Strategy and Study Schedule

After scheduling your exam, it's time to finalize your study plan. Here are a few tips:

• Allocate at least 12–16 weeks for each exam part.
  
  

• Use official CMA prep providers or online courses.
  
  

• Take mock exams to simulate the real experience.
  
  

• Review weak areas and revise key concepts regularly.
  
  

Rescheduling or Canceling the CMA Exam

If you need to reschedule or cancel your exam appointment, Prometric allows changes up to 72 hours before your scheduled time. However, additional fees may apply:

• Rescheduling more than 30 days before your exam: Free
  
  

• Rescheduling 3–30 days before: $50 fee
  
  

• Canceling or missing the exam: Forfeiture of exam fees
  
  

Be sure to make changes well in advance to avoid penalties.

Can I Take the CMA Exam Online?

As of 2025, Prometric offers online testing for the CMA exam through remote proctoring in some regions. However, availability may vary based on your location and technical setup.

To take the exam remotely, you’ll need:

• A quiet, private workspace
  
  

• Reliable internet connection
  
  

• Webcam and microphone
  
  

• Prometric’s system-check software
  
  

You can schedule online exams the same way via the Prometric site by selecting the remote testing option during appointment booking.

Best Time to Schedule Your CMA Exam

To increase your chances of success, schedule your exam:

• After you’ve completed 80–90% of your preparation
  
  

• At a time of day when you’re mentally alert (morning or afternoon)
  
  

• With at least one month buffer before your deadline for professional or academic commitments
  
  

Also, booking early helps secure your preferred date and location, especially during peak testing windows.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Scheduling

Many candidates make avoidable errors when scheduling their exam. Here are some to watch out for:

• Waiting too long to register (slots may be full)
  
  

• Choosing a test date too soon without enough prep
  
  

• Not checking ID or name mismatch issues
  
  

• Forgetting the Prometric confirmation email
  
  

Double-check all exam details and give yourself adequate study time before booking.

CMA Exam Scheduling for International Candidates

If you're taking the CMA exam outside the United States, Prometric offers test centers in over 100 countries. However, availability varies by location.

• Ensure your selected test center supports CMA exams.
  
  

• Use the Prometric global scheduling system to find the nearest center.
  
  

• Make sure your ID matches the information in your IMA profile.
  
  

In countries like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, CMA exams are frequently offered, but early booking is recommended due to high demand.

Final Checklist Before Exam Day

• Review Prometric test center rules or online testing guidelines.
  
  

• Print or save your appointment confirmation.
  
  

• Prepare required ID documents.
  
  

• Practice using the exam calculator.
  
  

• Get a full night’s sleep before the exam.
  
  

Scheduling the CMA exam is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a Certified Management Accountant. By understanding the testing windows, following the registration steps, and preparing effectively, you can confidently approach exam day with clarity and readiness.

Remember to plan ahead, stay organized, and give yourself the best possible chance to succeed. Whether you’re testing in-person or online, taking the time to schedule your exam properly will help you stay focused on what matters most—passing the CMA and advancing your career in finance.