CMC (ACAC) exam-day guide
CMC · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, valid photo ID required by your testing provider. Name must match your registration. Confirm the exact accepted ID types with the provider before test day.
Admission/confirmation document
Have your scheduling confirmation or admission ticket available (printed or digital, per provider rules) with your test date, time, and location.
Know your test center or remote-testing setup
Confirm the address and arrival time for an in-person center, OR verify your computer, camera, microphone, and internet meet remote-proctoring requirements. Confirm requirements with the provider.
Review allowed/prohibited items
Check the provider's list of permitted items (e.g., calculator, scratch paper, pen). Do not assume anything is allowed; confirm with the provider.
Logistics: route and timing
Plan your route and arrive with buffer time; confirm the required arrival window with the provider.
Rest and nutrition
Sleep well the night before and eat a normal meal; bring water/snack only if the provider permits them in the testing area.
Light, focused review only
Skim high-yield summaries and your own notes; avoid cramming new material the night before.
Backup plan
Save the provider's contact number and know their reschedule/late-arrival policy in case of emergency. Confirm policies with the provider.
Plan the day
Confirm test date, time, location/remote setup, and ID requirements with the provider. Do light review of high-yield topics and your personal weak spots. Stop heavy new learning.
Pack your ID and confirmation document. Lay out clothes and logistics. Do a short review session only, then rest. Avoid last-minute schedule changes.
Eat a normal meal, arrive early per the provider's arrival window, and re-check that you have your ID and confirmation. For remote testing, test your equipment and close unnecessary applications.
Read each question carefully, watch your pacing, and use the review/flag feature if offered. Take breaks only where the provider allows, and manage the clock so you finish all sections.
Rules to check
Bring valid government-issued photo ID; the name must match your registration. Confirm accepted ID types with the provider.
Follow all proctor instructions and the provider's rules on permitted and prohibited items; do not bring unauthorized materials into the testing area.
Breaks are governed by provider policy; confirm in advance whether breaks are allowed, timed, and whether you can leave the testing area.
Electronic devices, notes, and unauthorized aids are generally prohibited in the testing area; confirm the exact rules with the provider.
Scoring and pass/fail criteria are set by the certifying body; review the official scoring policy rather than relying on assumptions.
If you arrive late or have an emergency, contact the provider immediately; late-arrival and reschedule policies vary and must be confirmed with the provider.
Maintain academic integrity; any suspected misconduct may be reported and could void your results, per provider policy.