Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) Certification Guide: Complete Pearson VUE Exam Strategy (2026)
Considering CMCA certification? Whether searching "CMCA certification," "CMCA exam tips," "CMCA Pearson VUE," "how to pass CMCA exam," or "CMCA certification Reddit," this guide covers everything you need. Based on official CAMICB requirements and candidate experiences from Reddit and professional forums.
What is Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA)? Organization Overview
Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) is the foundational certification for community association managers offered by the Community Association Managers International Certification Board (CAMICB), a subsidiary of Community Associations Institute (CAI). Fully active in 2026, it is the international standard for HOA/condo/co-op management professionals.
Certification Portfolio and Target Audience
CAMICB offers the CMCA as the entry-level credential leading to advanced designations:
- Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) – Entry/professional-level certification for managers. Validates knowledge in governance, financials, maintenance, risk management, and community leadership.
Industry Recognition: Recognized by state licensing boards and employers in community management. Appears in job postings for roles such as Community Association Manager, HOA Manager, Property Manager, and Portfolio Manager.
Testing with Pearson VUE: What to Expect
All CMCA exams are delivered through Pearson VUE.
Exam Registration Process
- Apply and pay at camicb.org (includes first-year certification)
- Receive ATT and schedule via Pearson VUE (12-month window)
- Select CMCA exam
- Schedule at test center (OnVUE limited)
- Exam fee $360 (application + exam + first-year cert)
Exam Format Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Question Types | Multiple choice (120 questions: 100 scored + 20 pilot) |
| Duration | 2.5 hours |
| Passing Score | Scaled pass mark |
| Results | Immediate at test center |
| Retake Policy | $150 retake fee; reapply if needed |
Online Proctoring vs. Test Center
Primarily test centers worldwide; OnVUE for select cases. Run system test.
Best Study Resources for CMCA Exams
Based on Reddit discussions:
- Official: CAMICB study guide, M-100 course materials.
- Third-Party: Udemy CMCA prep.
- Free/Community: r/PropertyManagement CMCA Studying Thread, r/PropertyManagement Study Guide Inquiry, r/PropertyManagement CMCA Value Discussion, r/PropertyManagement CMCA Weight Thread, YouTube CMCA practice videos, Quizlet sets.
Final Thoughts
Ready? Apply at CAMICB then schedule at Pearson VUE. Last Updated: March 2026.