CMI exam-day guide
CMI · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the exact ID form your registration requires (name matching your registration). Confirm the accepted ID types and name-match rules with the provider before test day.
Confirmation / admission document
Have your appointment confirmation, testing location or online proctoring link, and any candidate ID number ready. Verify the check-in procedure with the provider.
Know your test format and timing
Confirm the number of questions, total time, whether sections are timed separately, and whether breaks are allowed. Do not assume a format; verify with the provider.
Permitted items only
Confirm what is allowed into the testing room (e.g., calculator, scratch paper, pen). Many test centers prohibit personal items; check the provider's list.
Leave prohibited items at home or in storage
Phones, smartwatches, notes, and bags are typically restricted. Confirm the provider's policy on personal belongings and storage.
Review scoring and result timing
Know the passing standard and when/how results are released. Confirm these details with the provider; they vary by program.
Plan travel and arrival buffer
Arrive earlier than the stated check-in time to allow for security and ID verification. Confirm the required arrival window with the provider.
Test your tech (if online proctored)
Run any required system check, test camera/microphone, and confirm your room meets proctoring rules. Verify requirements with the provider.
Rest and logistics the night before
Confirm start time and location, set alarms, and plan meals/hydration so you are not rushed.
Know the reschedule/cancellation policy
Understand deadlines and fees in case of emergency. Confirm specifics with the provider.
Plan the day
Stop learning new material. Review your own summary notes and weak areas, do a light set of practice questions, and confirm all logistics (location/link, ID, timing, permitted items) with the provider.
Do a short review only. Prepare ID, confirmation, and permitted items in one place. Confirm start time and travel/tech plan. Prioritize sleep; avoid cramming.
Eat a normal meal, arrive early or log in early as instructed, and re-check ID and confirmation. Keep the pre-test period calm and avoid last-minute deep dives.
Read each question carefully, watch the clock against the confirmed section timing, flag and move past hard items, and use only breaks the provider allows. Answer every question if there is no penalty for guessing (confirm the guessing policy).
Rules to check
Bring the exact ID required and ensure your name matches your registration; confirm accepted ID with the provider.
Follow all check-in and security procedures, including any proctoring or room-scan requirements; confirm details with the provider.
Do not access phones, notes, or unauthorized materials during the test; confirm the permitted-items list with the provider.
Take breaks only as permitted by the provider's rules; confirm whether breaks are allowed and how they affect timing.
Understand the scoring and passing standard before test day; confirm the exact standard and result timeline with the provider.
If you need to reschedule or cancel, follow the provider's deadlines and process; confirm fees and windows with the provider.
Report any technical or environmental problems to the proctor immediately; confirm the incident-reporting procedure with the provider.