Exam Application Steps

The following steps require that you first thoroughly read, then refer to, the Candidate Application and Handbook for the CMA (AAMA) Certification/Recertification Examination.

Step 1. Verify that You Are Eligible for the Exam

Review Exam Eligibility Requirements for details.

Temporary Waiver of Completing Student Policy

The Certifying Board of the AAMA recognizes the many challenges caused by COVID-19, one being the ability for medical assisting students to fully complete their programs. As such, the Certifying Board is allowing a temporary waiver of the policy that states that completing students may take the CMA (AAMA)^® Certification Exam no earlier than 30 days prior to completing their formal education and practicum.

Please note that this waiver is only intended for students who have completed all aspects of their formal education except the practicum. This policy waiver does not apply to those who have not yet completed the formal education of their program.

The waiver will extend through December 31, 2020.

Students who have completed all aspects of their programs except the practicum should be directed to the steps below when applying for the CMA (AAMA) Certification Exam online:

1. The candidate will apply and enter in the expected program completion date.
2. The program director will receive the verification roster and indicate that the reason the candidate is unable to complete the practicum portion of the program is due to COVID-19.
3. The candidates’ official exam scores will then be withheld until they have fully completed their medical assisting programs.

Contact CMAExam@aama-ntl.org with questions.

Step 2. Gather Your Documentation

Gather the appropriate documentation for your eligibility category.

(See “Required documentation” in the Handbook.)

Step 3. Review All Exam Policies and Information

When you submit your application, you are certifying that you have reviewed and accept all provisions under “Applicant agreement” and that you will abide by all the policies set forth in the Handbook, so it is important to read them thoroughly.

Step 4. Determine Start Date for 90-Day Testing Period

Select the date that you wish your 90-day testing period to begin. This will determine when you should apply for the exam. Detailed timelines for online and paper applications can be found below.

(See “Ninety-day testing period” and “Application timelines” in the Handbook.)

Online Application Timelines

 Mailed Paper Application Timelines

Note: Applicants who must submit specific documentation must allow extra time for application processing:

• Candidates requesting a waiver due to having been found guilty of a felony, or pleaded guilty to a felony, or having a professional license, registration, or certification denied, revoked, suspended, or subjected to probationary conditions by a regulatory authority or certification board
• Disabled persons who require special provisions on exam day
• Non-recent graduates who do not submit an official transcript with their application

Step 5. Monitor Your Email

Use an email address that will be valid for the next year (school addresses often expire after graduation). Add CMAExam@aama-ntl.org to your approved email list. Check your spam or junk email folder for CMA Exam emails.

Step 6. Apply for the Exam

Apply Online Now

Or, download the Handbook and complete the application form at the back. Verify that you have written your first, middle, and last name as they appear on the government-issued photo ID that you must bring to the test center. Submit the application and your candidate fee and include any documentation you gather in Step 2. Retain a copy of the completed application and documentation for your records. If you mail your application, do not send the Handbook with it.

Step 7. Make Name, Email, and Postal Address Corrections on a Timely Basis

Edit your profile online or email us to update your contact information.

(See “Candidate name/address specifications” and “Test center identification requirements” in the Handbook.)

Step 8. Schedule Your Exam

Schedule your exam appointment as soon as possible after printing your Scheduling Permit.

(See “Appointment Scheduling Permit” and “Exam date scheduling” in the Handbook.)

Step 9. Prepare for the Exam

See “Study suggestions.” Also, thoroughly review the “Test center scheduling and policies,” so that your test session goes smoothly.

Complete the AAMA Computer-Based Testing Tutorial to learn what to expect from the software interface when taking the exam at the testing site. All candidates are encouraged to use this online tutorial to practice prior to their examination appointment.

Step 10. Complete the Exam

After you have completed your exam, you will receive a pass/fail notification at the test center. You can view your exam status and scores at My Certification Information. Your official scores will display within eight weeks after your exam date.

Step 11. Watch for Your Official Score Reports

You’ll receive your official exam scores within three weeks after your exam date pending verification of program completion and/or fulfillment of all application requirements.

(See “Post-examination information and policies” in the Handbook.)

Step 12. Watch for Your Certificate

If you pass and are allowed to receive an official score report, your certificate and wallet card should arrive approximately three weeks after you receive your official scores. CMAs (AAMA) may view their certification status at My Certification Information. CMA (AAMA) certification is valid for a 60-month period.

(See “CMA (AAMA) recertification requirements” in the Handbook.)

Application Timelines