FAQs

Who can apply?
Is it worth it?
How do I maintain my CFM?
Have CFM exams been approved for V.A. benefits?
Does IFMA currently have discount pricing for the military?
What if I don't pass the first time?

Who can apply?

You do not have to be a member of IFMA to become a CFM, nor do you automatically become an IFMA member upon receiving your credential. All facility management practitioners who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply. Individuals who work in related fields (architecture, interior design, etc.) who meet the requirements also may qualify to take the exam.

Is it worth it?

Earning the CFM credential should be a goal for all facility professionals who wish to be recognized as leaders within their organizations and chosen fields. Certification can be an opportunity, enabling numerous CFMs to find or be promoted into new and better positions. In fact, rather than using traditional approaches, some employers now are contacting IFMA to obtain a list of CFMs in their city when they have high-level openings. There is also an ongoing trend in many organizations to reward new CFMs with salary increases. Research shows that CFMs earn an average of 18 percent more annually than their non-certified counterparts.

How do I maintain my CFM?

Certification is valid for three years. CFMs must demonstrate a continued commitment to growth and excellence by earning a required number of maintenance points in at least two of the following categories:

Practice
Continuing education
Professional involvement
Development of the profession

For more information about CFM maintenance, please visit Recertification.

Have CFM exams been approved for V.A. benefits?

Active military, veterans, eligible spouses and dependents may now use their G.I. Bill education benefits to pay for the cost of approved licensing and certification exams. Eligible persons may apply to the Veterans Affairs Office for reimbursement of CFM exam fees. If you are entitled to military benefits, now is the perfect time to take the CFM exam! To learn more about your V.A. benefits, visit www.gibill.va.gov/Education/LCweb.htm.

Does IFMA currently have discount pricing for the military?

IFMA currently has a GSA Schedule through June 14, 2014. This schedule allows IFMA to discount our courses and credential applications. For pricing and more information, please visit http://www.ifma.org/learning/gsa.cfm.

What if I don’t pass the first time?

Don’t give up! We will send you a letter listing the two or three competency areas in which you scored lowest. This information should be used as a learning opportunity to prepare for taking the exam again. Information on re-testing is also included in the letter.

For more information, please contact credentials@ifma.org