Exam Prep & Study Tips
Prometric Testing Center: What to Expect on Exam Day
It’s the day you’ve been preparing for – your accounting certification exam day. After dedicating hours to study, it’s your time to demonstrate everything you’ve learned in your exam preparation. However, before you enter the testing center, did you review the Prometric Testing Center policies? This aspect is often overlooked by exam candidates and can disqualify you from taking your exam.
Here is a breakdown of what you can expect at the Prometric Testing Center and hopefully this information will save you from an exam day disaster.
1. Arrive Early:
Prometric recommends you arrive 30 minutes before your exam to allow enough time to check-in. Depending on the location of Prometric in your area, you will want to allow for additional time to navigate traffic and parking. The last thing you want is to be stressed out before your exam.
2. Bring Everything You Need:
There are many things that you need to bring with you to the testing center and it can be very easy to leave something behind. Put together an exam-day bag that has all your important items. You also don’t want to be searching for your wallet and keys before you are trying to head out the door, so having those in your exam-day bag will eliminate stress. Often, testing centers may be on the colder side, so you should bring a sweatshirt or jacket with you.
Exam-Day Bag
- Exam Confirmation Number
- Passport or Drivers License + secondary form of ID (credit card, social security card, etc.)
- Exam Approved Calculator
- Wallet
- Keys
- Sweatshirt
3. Check-In Process:
When you arrive at Prometric, there will be a check-in desk. Depending on your location, there may be several other people waiting to check in for their exams. This is another reason why you want to show up early on your exam date. When you first check in, you will need to provide your ID as mentioned earlier. Prometric will verify if the name on the ID matches the name registered for the exam and verify that you are the person on the ID. Next, you will undergo a scanning procedure to verify you don’t have any other items on you. They will also ask you to turn your pockets inside out and show that they are empty. If you wear glasses, you will need to take those off for inspection. They even check under your wedding ring! If you are brining your own calculator, confirm it is approved for the exam you are taking. They will also check to see if the memory has been cleared. Once that is completed, you will be given a locker key for your personal items. You will keep that key with you until after you have completed your exam. The only things you should have on you are your ID, locker key, and calculator (if applicable).
4. Entry Into Your Exam:
Prior to your exam, you will be seated in a waiting room until they have your exam station prepared. Once they call your name, you will provide them with your ID once again. They will also snap a photo of you and collect fingerprints (if applicable). Once that is completed, they will hand you a sheet of paper with the time you entered the exam room. They provide you with a basket that contains: scratch paper, pencils, ID, locker key, and calculator. You will be provided on instructions on where you need to place these items. Your exam station will have a section for you to leave your locker key and a section to leave your ID face up. A Prometric representative will log you into your computer to begin the exam.
5. Starting Your Exam:
Before starting your timed exam, there are a few pre-screens that you will go through. An instructional guide will demonstrate how to navigate the exam. I suggest reviewing this thoroughly to make the most of the system’s features. You will then have a final screen related to the exam that you are taking. This time can vary depending on the exam. There is more than enough time to read through everything. I would recommend taking time to write down any formulas or notes on your scratch paper. Keep in mind that you need to advance these screens in a timely manner.
6. Leaving Prometric:
You finally made it through your exam and are ready to leave. First, ensure that you completely finished your exam. There are some survey questions afterward that you will complete as well. When you are ready to leave your station, be sure to take everything you brought in with you. You will need to sign out of the exam before you head home. Depending on the exam, you may be required to leave any scratch paper with Prometric. You are now ready to go home. Get everything out of your locker and give back your locker key to the Prometric representative. Take a sigh of relief – you made it through exam day!
Hopefully, this breakdown has been beneficial in preparing you for your Prometric experience. By knowing what to expect and following these tips, you can approach your exam day with more confidence and improve your chances of success. Best of luck on your exam!
Tyler Skelton
Click to locate the nearest Prometric testing center for FMAA, CMA, or CSCA exams.
HOCK Study Materials – 40% off
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Real Challenges, Real Stories – HOCK Study Path
Dive into the heart of exam prep with our latest video collection – a powerful glimpse into the real challenges faced by HOCK Study Path participants.
From juggling time to tackling tough topics, these stories are all about the raw, unfiltered journey toward professional certification.
Watch as our students share their hurdles in the early stages of their study journey. Their courage, resilience, and commitment shine through every word, reminding us all of the strength it takes to chase our dreams.
Your next chapter is waiting to be written. Begin your journey with HOCK today and transform challenges into victories.
Stepping Into Accounting: My Personal Take on the FMAA Certification
Tyler Skelton is the Director of US Business Development at HOCK and he has spent over ten years helping professionals prepare for finance and accounting certifications. Although Tyler doesn’t come from an accounting background, his interest in continuous learning and professional development has led him to explore the new FMAA certification. Join him as he shares his experience with this journey.
Understanding the FMAA: A Certification for All Professionals
For over a decade, I’ve dedicated myself to providing individuals with the resources to help them obtain various accounting and finance certifications. I had never considered taking an exam for any of those certifications, mainly because I wouldn’t meet the work experience requirements, but also, I just didn’t fit in with what I wanted to do with my career. I do not come from an accounting background and haven’t taken an accounting course for as long as I have been in my current field.
The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) recently launched a brand-new certification called the FMAA, which stands for Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate. The FMAA is a foundational certification designed to equip early-career professionals with core accounting and finance knowledge skills. What sets this certification apart is that it doesn’t require education or work experience to sit for the exam. This makes it an ideal certification for business students starting out in accounting or finance, business professionals who work closely with accountants or the accounting department, or professionals looking to transition into a new career path.
The FMAA Experience: Gearing Up for the Exam
When I learned about the FMAA certification, I realized it was not only relevant to my background but also an option I could consider pursuing. I believe it’s important to commit to continuous learning and professional development. By taking the FMAA exam, I aim to better understand the challenges our candidates face in preparing for exams. It also helps me relate more closely to the accounting and finance profession. As I approach my exam date this month I am beginning to feel the pressure. I’m excited to update you all on my exam results and will report back!
Tyler Skelton
US Business Development Director
Conquering Exam Fears: Insights from HOCK Study Path
It is common to encounter many fears and hesitations when preparing for professional certification exams. We asked the HOCK Study Path participants to share the fears that have held them back and see how acknowledging and facing these fears is the first step toward overcoming them.
The Fears Holding Us Back
- Time and Financial Constraints: Many participants highlighted the challenge of balancing demanding jobs with study time alongside concerns about the financial implications of taking exams, especially when travel is required.
- Fear of Failure: The fear of not succeeding on the first try was a big reason for not moving forward. The thought of failing not only themselves but also those who support them added an extra layer of pressure.
- Uncertainty and Feeling Overwhelmed: Some participants delayed their exam preparation due to uncertainties about the exam process or concerns about their ability to commit to and complete a rigorous study schedule.
You Are Not Alone
- 60% of our participants cited time management and financial concerns as major hurdles.
- Over 70% expressed a fear of failure and the pressure of expectations as significant barriers.
- Nearly 50% mentioned uncertainty about the exam process and doubts about their study discipline.
Turning Fears Into Motivation
The HOCK Study Path community demonstrated that starting is the most important step in transforming these fears into success stories. By engaging with the program, participants have begun to:
- Prioritize and Plan: Setting up a Personal Study Plan in PassMap helps in managing study hours and fitting exam preparation into busy schedules.
- Embrace the Learning Process: Shifting focus from the pressure of passing exams to enjoying the acquisition of new knowledge makes the journey more fulfilling.
- Leverage Community Support: Sharing experiences and challenges with fellow students provides a sense of belonging and mutual encouragement.
Join Us and Start Your Journey
Let the HOCK Study Path Series be your guide and support system. Subscribe to the YouTube channel and follow the community where real students share their real experiences. By subscribing, you’ll find inspiration, insights, and the motivation to study with a plan.
It is never too late to conquer your fears and start your path to success!
HOCK Study Materials – 40% off
All our materials are based on a subscription model and start with a free trial. You can cancel your subscription anytime. Start your studies now and lock in your rate:
Exclusive EA Strategy Talk with Brian Hock and Timalyn Bowens
Brian Hock, CMA, CSCA, CIA, CRMA, has joined Timalyn Bowens, EA, for an insightful live session about the Enrolled Agent (EA) license – a prestigious designation awarded by the IRS to top-tier tax professionals.
Whether you are aspiring to become an Enrolled Agent or are already one and looking to sharpen your skills and knowledge in accounting practices, this session is for you.
The 2024 CMA Syllabus Change
The CMA Learning Outcome Statements (the LOS, or exam syllabus) are changing for the September/October 2024 Exam Window. There are a lot of questions that candidates have about this change. We have answered the most common questions here.
For more detailed information about the changes, click here.
How big is the change?
The changes to the CMA to the LOS are very small. No significant topics are being added or deleted. The largest topic being added is connected to consolidated financial statements in Part 1 Section A. But, there is no requirement added to perform a consolidation. Candidates need to understand what consolidation is when it is required and what is done during a consolidation (the elimination of intracompany balances).
When does it take effect?
The new syllabus will be tested in the September/October Exam window. The January/February and the May/June Exam windows will test the syllabus that was established in 2020.
Will I have to retake an Exam that I have already passed?
No. If you pass Part 1 or Part 2 under the current syllabus, you will keep that credit for whatever time period you are able to keep the credit. The requirement that you must pass both Exams within 3 years of registering as a CMA candidate is still in place.
For example, if you registered as a candidate in November 2021 and passed Part 1 in January 2024, you need to pass Part 2 in the September/October window because you must pass both Exams within 3 years of registering as a CMA candidate. If you do not pass Part 2 in the September/October Exam window, you will need to re-register as a CMA candidate and pass Part 1 again.
What happens if I fail an Exam in the May/June Exam window?
If you take an Exam in the May/June window and fail, you will need to retake the exam under the 2024 syllabus in September/October (or later). The good news is that the changes are very small, and you will not need to study very much new content for your retake.
What should I do if I have not started studying yet?
If you are just starting to study as a CMA candidate, we recommend that you start studying with the 2020 syllabus. It is very possible that you will be able to prepare and take your Exam in the May/June Exam window. If, in a couple of months you realize that you will not be ready by the May/June window, you will just shift your studies to the 2024 syllabus for the September/October Exam window. Again, the changes to the syllabus are small, so this will not be an issue.
What should I do if I have already started studying for CMA?
If you are already studying, continue to study and work towards passing in the May/June Exam window. If you determine that will not be possible, you will simply shift to the September/October window.
What should I do if I pass Part 1 (or Part 2) in the January/February window?
If you pass Part 1 or Part 2 in the January/February Exam window, you will probably not be ready to take the Exam in May/June. If you want to try, there is no problem at all to start under the 2020 syllabus and then switch to the 2024 syllabus if you need to.
When will HOCK have new Materials?
Our CMA exam materials, accessible through 1, 6, and 24-month subscriptions, are updated for the new exam syllabus. Find out more details about the HOCK CMA Exam Review Subscription.
Passing Requires Progress
New Year, New Goals: Aiming to Pass Professional Exams in 2024
As we start 2024, it is possible that many of you have made a New Year’s resolution to pass your professional exams in 2024. This is an excellent resolution for the year, and it is one that will provide benefit to you for many years to come.
It is also possible that some of you are making this resolution to pass your exams for the second year in a row. This may be a resolution that you have made in the past but not accomplished. Whether this is your first,or second (or third) year making a resolution to pass your exams, I think that one of the key things to accomplishing your resolution is to keep the time frame in mind.
Understanding the Journey: A Year-Long Commitment
Passing professional certifications is not a short process and there are no shortcuts. There is a syllabus that you need to learn, and that process of learning simply takes time. The perspective that you need to keep in mind is that this is a New Year’s resolution. It is not a This Week’s resolution or a January resolution. It might very well take you the entire year to pass your exam. If you expect to accomplish your goal quickly, you will be disappointed and frustrated.
Focus on Progress, Not Just Passing
While you are studying for your exam, your focus in your studies needs to be progress, not passing. You may not be able to pass your exam this week or this month, but you can make progress toward that this week and this month. If you break the study process into smaller pieces and set goals for each of the smaller pieces, you will be able to see your progress toward passing. These smaller accomplishments will keep you on pace to complete your New Year’s resolution this year.
Tools to Make Progress: HOCK PassMap and Personal Study Planner
HOCK PassMap includes a Personalized Study Planner that helps you stay focused on your exam date and your weekly progress to your goal. It shows an overview of your entire study schedule and an estimate of how many hours you need to study each week to stay on track. As you study, you will see the progress being tracked as the number of hours you need to study decreases. If you are a HOCK student, make sure to set up your approximate exam date in PassMap and follow the Personalized Study Plan. PassMap keeps you making progress towards your goal, one study unit as a time. If you haven’t started your exam preparation yet, start your free trial today.
Efficient Time Management for Multiple-Choice Question Exams
Managing time while solving multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on the exam can be quite challenging. The stress is even higher when you get stuck on a question, wasting precious minutes. I have a simple yet impactful tip to help you manage your time more effectively during exams.
The Golden Rule: Every Question is Equal
The crucial thing to remember during a multiple-choice exam is that all questions carry the same weight. What this means is whether you get a simple definition question correct or solve a long, complicated calculation, each contributes equally to your overall score. With this in mind, it’s important to answer all the simple or straightforward questions first before spending a lot of time on any one question.
Navigate Through the Exam Wisely
Another point to consider is that you may find easier questions towards the end of the exam, so make sure you have enough time left to tackle those potentially easy points. How do you do this? The key is not to spend too much time on any complicated or tricky question that you encounter early in your exam.
When you come across a question that seems complicated—full of information or calculations — quickly skim through the question to understand its essence. If it covers a topic you’re comfortable with and can answer it quickly, go ahead and solve it. Otherwise,simply choose one of the options (A, B, C, or D), mark the question for review, and move on. But, make certain you answer the question before you move to the next question.
Use The Review Strategy
By marking difficult questions for review, you can come back to them later if time permits. This strategy ensures that you don’t miss out on answering easier questions that might be at the end of the exam. Once you’ve answered all the straightforward questions, you can return to the marked ones and spend any remaining time solving them.
The Ultimate Goal: Complete Coverage
The end goal is to answer every question, even if some are guesses. When you’ve answered all of the questions, you can go back to check your answers if time remains, or spend time on the questions you guessed on. By not getting stuck on complicated questions during your first run-through, you’ll have more time to tackle the easier questions that you’re certain to get correct. This strategy ultimately offers you a more comprehensive coverage of the paper and a higher chance of a better score.
If you often find yourself wishing for just a few more minutes when you do a timed study session, the key is to manage your time wisely. Remember, don’t spend too much time on any single question during your first pass. Answer it, mark it, and move on. Come back later if time allows, but make sure you’ve answered all the questions you know well first. This way, you’ll maximize your chances of passing your exams. Happy studying!
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A Study Tip to Maximize Your Efficiency
Simply put, one of the first things you need to do is to pick a target exam date. Whether you’re just starting your study journey or you’re midway through it, setting the date is fundamental. Here’s why.
Why Setting a Target Date is Essential
Setting the date when you plan to take your exam gives your study process structure and purpose. If you’re at the beginning of your study journey, you might not know exactly how long it will take you. You might think it’ll be six months, and then realize after a couple of weeks that it could be shorter or longer. That’s fine. The important thing is that you have a goal date in mind.
Drifting Vs. Targeted Learning
Without a specific end date, your study process can quickly become aimless. Before you know it, two months have passed, and you haven’t really gotten very far in your studying. Having a target date fixes this problem by serving as a motivating factor, keeping you on track and ensuring that your studying remains focused.
How to Choose Your Target Date
If you’re unsure how to set a target date, evaluate the following:
- The time you’ve already spent studying.
- The amount of time you can realistically dedicate to studying each week.
- The remaining time you have before the exam.
Taking these factors into consideration, estimate when you think you’ll be ready to take the exam.
Utilizing Exam Planners
If you’re studying with a structured program, like programs we offer at HOCK (CMA, CIA, EA, ESG), you can enter your target date into the exam planner. The planner will then align all remaining study units to help you prepare efficiently for the exam by that date.
The Power of Having a Target
Setting a target exam date is neither difficult nor time-consuming, but it’s a simple step that can have a transformative effect on your study process. With a target in mind, you’re more likely to stay on task, follow a schedule, and be effective in your study routine.
If you haven’t already, go ahead and set your expected exam date. It’s a straightforward action that can significantly increase how effective and efficient your study process will be. Because when you know your endpoint, you can better plan how to get there. Happy studying!
HOCK Transforms CMA & CIA Study Materials with Revolutionary Subscription Model
We are excited to share that HOCK is taking a revolutionary step in CMA and CIA exam preparation by transitioning all of our CMA and CIA study materials to a subscription! The subscription model offers an affordable and flexible approach to helping more candidates worldwide pass the CMA and CIA exams.
Subscription Model & Price
All HOCK CMA and CIA Exam Reviews are now accessible through 1, 3, or 6-month subscriptions. Depending on the subscription length, prices range from $42 to $59 per month after our current 40% discount.
Every subscription starts with a 7-day free trial, allowing you to experience our comprehensive materials, learning platform, and personal study plan for yourself. Once your subscription starts, you can cancel your subscription anytime. If you need to just take a break, your progress is saved and will be there when you resume your subscription.
Why Choose the Subscription Model
Subscriptions allow you to get what you need for exactly how long you need it. Why overspend for unlimited access when you only need it for a few months? With HOCK's subscription model, you get:
- No big upfront payments
- Access to ALL materials and premium features
- Payment flexibility—only pay while you’re studying
- Freedom to cancel and resume subscriptions at your convenience
With a HOCK subscription, you leverage world-class study materials at an affordable monthly cost, enhancing focus and efficiency in your study process and saving time and money.
Materials Included
The subscriptions include:
- Materials for all exam Parts (CMA or CIA)
- Online textbooks with highlighting and annotation
- Videos by Brian Hock
- Test banks with detailed answer explanations
- Mock exams with unique questions not used elsewhere in the materials
- PassMap™ that guides you through the exam syllabus, one topic at a time
- Personalized Study Planner to keep you on track for your exam date
A Leap into the Future
At HOCK, we believe in staying ahead of the curve and providing the best for our students. This move to a subscription model underlines our commitment to offering quality, accessibility, and affordability in learning.
Special Note for Existing HOCK students
For those who have purchased HOCK CMA or CIA study materials prior to this switch, everything will stay the same! You will continue to have uninterrupted access to your materials without any set expiration.
Happy Studying!
The HOCK Team
