Remote testing options for the CMA Exam

So, you’re ready to take the CMA Exam but you’re not located near or comfortable going into a testing center for an in-person exam. What if there was an option that would allow you to take the CMA Exam from the comfort of your home? Luckily, now that option exists.

A new remote testing option for Certified Management Accountant (CMA) candidates recently started with the first 2022 exam window. CMA candidates can register to take their exams either in-person at a Prometric Test Center or remotely using Prometric’s ProProctor™ service. The exam fee is the same for in-person and remote testing.

There are important technology and space requirements to be aware of before choosing remote testing for the CMA Exam.

If you are currently registered for an exam at a Prometric Test Center and wish to switch to remote proctoring, please contact ProProctor™ technical support at 800-226-7958.

Register soon to save

Regardless of your preferred testing method, we encourage you to register for your next exam prior to fees increasing on March 1, 2022. All 2022 exam windows are now open for scheduling. Click here to register for the CMA Exam.

In partnership with the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), Surgent would like to provide answers to some frequently asked questions about the new remote proctoring option for the CMA Exam.  A more comprehensive list of FAQs can be found on the IMA’s website.

What is remote proctoring?

Remote proctoring is an exam delivery method administered by Prometric using its ProProctor™ remote assessment platform. Remote proctoring provides you with the option of taking the English language CMA Exam at a location other than a Prometric Test Center, like your home or office. This option is available if your residence is in a country eligible for the service and your chosen testing environment and systems meet Prometric requirements.

For more detailed information, including a video on what to expect with remote testing, visit ProProctor Candidate Information.

Is the remote proctored testing option offered worldwide?

Remote proctoring is available globally, except in the Crimea part of Ukraine, North Korea, Iran, Syria and Cuba. In China, remote proctoring is available for the English language CMA Exam only, as the Chinese language CMA Exam is a paper-based test.

In some countries and some areas within countries, internet connections might not be stable enough to administer the exam remotely.

What is the availability of remote proctoring?

Remote proctoring is available 24/7; however, keep in mind that the day and time you select might not be available. If you are told your day/time is not available, simply select a different time frame.

Can I use a tablet or smartphone to take my remote proctored exam?

No, the ProProctor™ platform is not compatible with a tablet or smartphone. The platform is compatible with computers that have an operating system of Windows 8.1 or higher and MacOS 10.13 or higher.

What are the testing location requirements for remote proctored testing?

To comply with the security procedures, there are various requirements for your testing environment:

  • Your selected testing location must be indoors (walled), well-lit, with a closed door and free from background noise and disruptions.
  • The entrance to the room must be in full view of the camera.
  • Your workstation and surrounding area must be free of materials such as pictures, office supplies and electronic devices.

Can I use my work computer for testing from home?

Using a work computer is not recommended because of corporate firewalls that many organizations have in place could prevent successful test delivery. We advise you to use a personal (non-work) computer.

How do I know if my computer system meets Prometric’s remote proctoring requirements?

You can confirm your system’s compatibility by going to https://rpcandidate.prometric.com/ and completing the system check step.

How do I sign up to test via remote proctoring?

Once you register for an exam part and receive your Authorization Letter, you may schedule your exam appointment. To schedule online, go to www.prometric.com/icma, scroll down and select the “Schedule Your Remotely Proctored Exam” option.

How do I change to remote proctoring if I already signed up to take the exam at a test center?

To change your appointment to remote proctoring, you will need to cancel your existing appointment first. Go to www.prometric.com/icma and click on the “Reschedule/Cancel” option under the “Actions” panel, then click on the “Schedule” option in “Remotely Proctored Exam” to schedule. A rescheduling fee may apply.

How will I receive my exam results?

Exam results will be emailed and posted to your online profile approximately six weeks from the end of the month in which you tested for the CMA exam and approximately eight weeks for the CSCA exam.

Is a break allowed at some point during the exam?

Yes, you are allowed one 10-minute optional, unscheduled break at any time during the exam session. If you wish to take a break, you must notify the proctor before leaving the view of the camera. Failure to inform the proctor prior to taking a break, or failure to return on time from the break, will result in the termination of your exam session. Upon your return from the break, a full security scan will be conducted before the exam session is resumed. Keep in mind that a valid photo ID is required to take the remote proctored exam.

Can I have a glass of water on my desk when taking a remote proctored exam?

No. Eating, drinking, smoking and chewing gum are prohibited during the exam.

Are you allowed to have a mobile phone in the testing area?

No. Mobile phones are not permitted in the testing area but should be close by in another room. In the case of internet or power loss, you should go to the room where your mobile phone is located and connect with the proctor. If using a smartphone, go to https://rpcandidate.prometric.com and click on “Contact Support,” then follow the prompts.

Is remote proctored testing a replacement for the in-person testing format?

No, remote proctored exam testing is an additional testing option and not a replacement of in-person testing. Both are available alternatives. You may choose the option that is best for you. The exam content is the same in both environments.

Is there an additional fee to take a remote proctored exam?

No. There is not an additional fee to take an exam via remote proctoring. The exam fee is the same as in-person testing.

Can I use scratch paper when taking a remote proctored exam?

Yes. You are allowed to have four sheets of white plain scratch paper on your desk during testing. You must show the front and back of each sheet of paper to the proctor to ensure that there is no writing on the paper. At the end of the test session, you must show the front and back of each sheet of paper to the proctor and rip the scratch paper up into small pieces in front of the camera.

Can I talk to someone at Prometric for scheduling or rescheduling the exam?

Yes. However, the quickest way to get resolution is to fill out an online request form. You also can contact ProProctor™  technical support at 800-226-7958.

Ready to take the CMA Exam?

If you have done all your prep work and found a trusted exam review provider like Surgent CMA Review, go ahead and schedule your in-person or remote testing option for the CMA Exam. If you have any additional questions, remember that a more comprehensive list of FAQs can be found on the IMA’s website.