Done! Now Waiting for My CMA Exam Result

Gavin is one of our CMA Exam bloggers. He shares his story every Friday.

It’s been an intense 2 months, and I couldn’t be more excited to have finished.  Part 2 was pretty tough, but I think I gave it my best shot, so I’m staying optimistic.  Going into my second test, I felt a lot more comfortable and prepared mentally.  I did end up running out of time on the very last essay question, but other than that I handled it all pretty well. (Gavin took the CMA exam before the essays were replaced with case-based questions.)

Here are biggest things I’ve taken away from this experience:

1. Practice problems, practice problems, practice problems

Yes, you want to go over the concepts in the book and whatnot, but practice problems will help your brain think about why an answer is the way it is.  I wish I had gone through more practice problems in my studying.

2. Don’t rush it

If you really need to take both tests in the same testing window, fine.  However, I recommend splitting them up.  It was really hectic transitioning into studying for Part 2 immediately after Part 1.  If you don’t think you can handle it, just don’t.  Take one and then see how you did and make your plans for the next.  Remember you can’t reschedule out of testing windows.

3. Stay motivated

It’s hard to stay focused, especially when you have a lot on your plate.  Just stay with it.  If you need to, take a personal day away from studying and visualize your life after you pass the tests.  It will be worth it, so don’t get discouraged.

Time to Wait for the CMA Exam Result

With that, I’m signing off on my blogging.  Thanks for following my story, and best of luck to all future CMA candidates.

Update (March 20): Gavin passed Part 1. Congrats!

Update (April 11): Gavin passed Part 2 as well. Excellent work!

From Stephanie

It’s been exciting to walk beside you on your CMA journey. We try to cheer you up along the way, but really, you are the one who works hard and sticks with your plan. Can’t believe you pulled it off and took the exam in the same test window!

All the best to your new job, and wishing you many wonderful opportunities ahead. Please keep us updated on the results.