Exam Development
In this sectionThe Society of Defense Financial Management (previously the American Society of Military Comptrollers) is pleased to provide a summary of the activities that took place between 2023 – 2024 to update the Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM) and CDFM with Acquisition Specialty (CDFM-A) certification examinations which were launched May 29, 2024.
Updated Exam Blueprints
Click on the updated 2024 CDFM and CDFM-A Exam Blueprints to see the domains and knowledge statements, domain weights, key updates made, and a list of references (study materials) for the updated CDFM and CDFM-A exams.
FAQs
Exam Update Timeline
How long will I be able to take the old exams?
The “old” exams were available through September 30, 2024.
If I purchased an “old” exam but did not test by September 30, 2024, what happens to my purchase?
You can have the old exam converted to an updated version of that exam. Please contact the Certification Department at certification@sdfm.org for assistance.
Exam Update
Which exams were updated?
CDFM/CDFM-A Modules 1, 2, 3, and 4 were updated and launched on May 29, 2024.
Is there a new format for the exam, such as different question types or a different number of questions?
No, there are still 80 multiple-choice questions on each exam.
Will there be any changes to the duration or timing of the exam?
No, each exam is still 2 hours.
What are the major changes to the updated exams?
See the 2024 CDFM and CDFM-A Exam Blueprints above.
Did the percentages of the subdomains change?
Yes, the percentages of the subdomains changed. You can view the information in the 2024 CDFM and CDFM-A Exam Blueprints above.
Are there any new topics or competencies that have been added to the exams?
In Modules 1-3, only the domain weights were revised. The Module 4 domain names were restructured to align with the DAU Back-to-Basics functional areas. See the 2024 CDFM and CDFM-A Exam Blueprints above for details.
Have any topics or competencies been removed from the exam?
No.
Did eligibility requirements to pursue CDFM certification change?
No, the eligibility requirements were not updated and remain the same for now.
Are there any changes to the passing score or scoring system for the exam?
The scoring system remains the same. Each candidate will be notified with a “Pass” or “Fail” score report. Candidates who are unsuccessful will also be given the percentage of questions answered correctly for each subdomain.
CDFM Exams
Are there any changes to the exam administration process, such as testing locations or exam delivery methods?
No, there are no changes to the exam administration process. Candidates have the options to test at Pearson VUE Testing Centers and online proctored testing.
Will the updated exams have any impact on existing certifications?
No, the updated exams will not have any impact on existing certifications. All active CDFM/CDFM-A certificants must adhere to the current recertification policies.
Other Prep Questions
Is there an updated reference list?
Yes, there is an updated reference list in the 2024 CDFM and CDFM-A Exam Blueprints above.
Will the training materials be updated to align with the 2024 CDFM and CDFM-A exam blueprints?
Yes, the training materials have been updated.
SMEs
Why is it important to have SME volunteers for this exam development process?
It is critical to have SME collaboration throughout the CDFM certification exam development process. Your time and willingness to participate is a crucial factor in ensuring that the exam adheres to a scientifically rigorous process that is valid, reliable, and legally defensible.
What are the benefits of participating?
- Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits are awarded for participation.
- Contributing in tangible and meaningful ways to the Defense Financial Management field.
- Allowing your thoughts, experiences, and perspectives to be represented in the exam.
Questions? Please contact certification@sdfm.org.