CMA Exam Dates: Complete Guide for your Test in 2025

CMA Exam Dates: Your Complete Guide to Planning Your Test

CMA exam dates are crucial in the planning and preparation process for aspiring Certified Management Accountants. To stay well-prepared and ready for the exam, it's essential to stay informed about key dates and deadlines, especially with multiple testing windows throughout the year.

In this guide, we’ll break down the CMA exam dates for 2025, explain how the test windows work, and provide valuable tips on registering and preparing for the exam.

Understanding the CMA Exam Schedule

The CMA exam is offered in three testing windows each year, allowing candidates to choose the most suitable Time for their exam. These windows provide flexibility and allow you to plan your study schedule effectively. Here are the key CMA exam testing windows you need to be aware of:

• January/February
• May/June
• September/October

Each testing window lasts two months, offering ample Time for candidates to find an ideal date to sit for their exams. Be aware that availability within these windows may vary based on your chosen testing center, so it's recommended to register early.

CMA Exam Testing Windows for 2025

To help you plan your exam, here’s an overview of the CMA exam dates for 2025:

January/February 2025

• Exam dates: January 1 – February 28, 2025
• Last day to register: February 15, 2025

May/June 2025

• Exam dates: May 1 – June 30, 2025
• Last day to register: June 15, 2025

September/October 2025

• Exam dates: September 1 – October 31, 2025
• Last day to register: October 15, 2025

Each testing window allows you to sit for either or both exams. 

Registration Process for the CMA Exam

Registering for the CMA exam is straightforward, but timing is everything. To successfully register for the exam, you’ll need to:

1. Join the IMA (Institute of Management Accountants) – The first step to becoming eligible for the CMA exam is joining the IMA.
2. Enroll in the CMA Program – Once you're an IMA member, you'll need to enroll in the CMA program, which involves paying a one-time, non-refundable entrance fee.
3. Schedule Your Exam – After enrolling, you can schedule your exam through Prometric, which administers the exam at various locations worldwide.

Register well before the deadline of your chosen testing window to secure your preferred date and testing center.  Read our detailed blog on how to register for the CMA exam for more in depth process.

Prometric Testing Centers and Remote Proctoring:

• Testing Centers: Prometric testing centers administer the CMA exam globally
• Remote Proctoring: In some regions, you can take the CMA exam remotely, offering flexibility. Ensure your testing environment meets Prometric's technical requirements.

Exam Day Tips:

• Arrive Early: Arrive or log in 30 minutes before your exam.
• ID Requirements: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport).
• Testing Time: 4 hours total—3 hours for multiple-choice, 1 hour for essays.

How to Choose the Best CMA Exam Date

Selecting the best CMA exam date depends on several factors, including your study progress, availability, and personal schedule. Here are a few tips to help you choose the ideal date:

• Assess Your Preparation: Don’t rush into booking an exam date if you’re not confident in your readiness. Ideally, you should complete your study plan and mock exams at least one month before your scheduled test.
• Consider Personal and Professional Commitments: Make sure you account for any major commitments, such as work projects, holidays, or family events, that could disrupt your study time.
• Leave Time for a Retake: If you plan to take both parts of the CMA exam, spacing them out allows Time for retakes if necessary. Aim to leave at least one testing window between your Part 1 and Part 2 exams.

Planning and aligning your exam date with your preparation strategy can increase your chances of passing the exam on the first attempt.

 Our blog on CMA Exam format  provides more information about the structure of the exams.

CMA Exam Rescheduling and Cancellation Policies:

If life throws a curveball and you need to reschedule or cancel your CMA exam dates, follow these simple steps:

• Reschedule 31+ days in advance:
  • No fee required.
  • Use the Reschedule/Cancel option on the Prometric website.
• Reschedule or cancel 3 to 30 days in advance:
  • Prometric charges a $50 fee.
  • Follow the steps on the Prometric website with your confirmation number handy.
• Less than three days before the exam:
  • The total exam fee will be forfeited if you reschedule or cancel.
• Transfer to the next testing window:
  • A $75 fee applies.
  • Contact IMA Member Services at least five days before your scheduled exam.
  • Cancel your Prometric appointment before requesting the transfer.

Cancellation: If you decide to cancel your exam, your exam fees are non-refundable. However, you can request a 12-month extension under exceptional circumstances like medical emergencies.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose a testing window that fits your schedule and allows ample study time.
• Register early to secure your preferred exam date.
• Be aware of registration, scheduling, and rescheduling deadlines to avoid penalties.

Important Deadlines to Keep in Mind

When planning for the CMA exam, it’s essential to keep track of not just the CMA exam dates but also other critical deadlines:

• IMA membership and exam registration: Ensure you’re an IMA member and have registered for the exam before the deadline.
• Exam fees: To secure your exam seat, pay all applicable fees (entrance and registration) by the deadline.
• Study milestones: Set up your study plan with critical milestones so you stay on track.

FAQs About CMA Exam Dates

When can I register for the CMA exam?

You can register for the CMA exam anytime, but you must do so before the registration deadline for your chosen testing window. Early registration is highly recommended.

How many times a year can I take the CMA exam?

You can take the CMA exam during three testing windows each year—January/February, May/June, and September/October.

Can I retake the CMA exam in the same year?

If you fail one part of the exam, you can retake it in the next available testing window. However, you must re-register and pay the applicable fees.

What happens if I miss the registration deadline?

If you miss the registration deadline, you must wait until the next testing window to take the exam.

Can I take both parts of the CMA exam in the same testing window?

Yes, you can schedule Part 1 and Part 2 in the same window, but many candidates choose to space them out to allow more focused preparation.

How do I schedule my CMA exam at a Prometric center or remotely?

• In-person: Use your IMA authorization number to schedule via Prometric.
• Remote proctoring: Ensure your system meets remote proctoring requirements.

Can I cancel my CMA exam, and will I receive a refund?

• Cancellation: Exam fees are non-refundable unless for exceptional cases.
• Extensions: You may request a 12-month extension for emergencies.
• No refunds, but re-scheduling may be possible in certain cases.

What is the process for rescheduling my CMA exam?

• Before 30 days: Reschedule for free if done 30+ days in advance.
• 30 to 5 days: $50 rescheduling fee applies.
• Within 5 days: No rescheduling; exam fee is forfeited unless an emergency.

Will there be any consequences if I miss my scheduled exam?

• If you miss your scheduled exam date, this will be treated as a "no-show," and you will forfeit your exam fee. You must re-register and pay the fee again to sit for the exam in another testing window.

What are the technical requirements for remote proctoring?

For remote proctored exams, your system must meet the following:

• Operating system: Windows or Mac
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome
• Internet: A stable and fast connection
• Webcam & Microphone: Must be working correctly throughout the exam
• Testing Environment: Ensure a quiet, well-lit room with no interruptions. The proctor will monitor you via webcam.

You can find detailed system requirements and check your system compatibility on the Prometric ProProctor User Guide on their website.

How early should I arrive at the test center or log in for a remote exam?

• In-person: Arrive 30 minutes early at the Prometric Center.
• Remote proctoring: Log in 30 minutes early for check-in procedures.

Late arrivals may result in forfeiting your appointment, and you won’t be able to take the exam.

Can I reschedule for a different testing window if something comes up?

1. Reschedule within the same window following the 30-day and 5-day rules.
2. Shifting to a new window requires canceling, forfeiting the fee, and re-registering.
3. Extensions are granted only for exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies.

What identification is required at the test center or for remote proctoring?

You must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license) and, for in-person exams, a secondary ID (credit/debit card, company ID, or student ID).

For remote proctoring, you'll be asked to show your ID via webcam during check-in.

How can I ensure my rescheduling or cancellation is processed correctly?

Always complete any rescheduling or cancellation through the Prometric website (or by phone sometimes). Make sure to get a confirmation email for any changes. If you don’t receive one, follow up to ensure your request is processed.

What should I do if there is a technical issue during my remote exam?

• If a technical issue occurs, the proctor will try to reconnect.
• Minor issues allow you to continue after quick resolution.
• For unresolved issues, contact Prometric and file an incident report.
• Depending on the issue's severity, Prometric may allow rescheduling.

Conclusion on CMA Exam dates

Knowing the CMA exam dates and the timeline is critical to ensuring you're well-prepared and confident on exam day. With multiple testing windows throughout the year, you can choose a date that aligns with your schedule and study progress.

Stay organized, meet the registration deadlines, and maximize your preparation time. By doing so, you'll set yourself up for success in becoming a Certified Management Accountant.