Table of Contents

• How to Determine if You Are Eligible to Become a Certified Facility Manager (CFM)
• How to Prepare for the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Exam
• What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Certified Facility Manager (CFM)?
• What Are the Best Resources to Prepare for the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Exam?
• What Are the Continuing Education Requirements for the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Certification?

Becoming a Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field of facility management. It is an internationally recognized certification program that assesses facility management professionals on their knowledge and experience in the areas of operations and maintenance, energy management, environmental health and safety, planning and finance, and other areas related to facility operations. In order to become a Certified Facility Manager (CFM), you must meet certain educational, experience, and professional development requirements. In this guide, we will cover the steps and requirements necessary to become a CFM.

How to Determine if You Are Eligible to Become a Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

If you are interested in becoming a Certified Facility Manager (CFM), you must meet certain eligibility requirements. First, applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time experience or five years of part-time experience in facility management. This experience must have been within the last 10 years. Additionally, CFM applicants must have an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university or a related professional certification. Finally, applicants must agree to abide by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Code of Ethics.

Once you are sure that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the CFM certification. The application process involves submitting a completed application form, providing proof of experience and/or education, paying the application fee, and passing the CFM exam. Once all of the requirements have been met, the application will be reviewed and approved or denied. The CFM certification is a valuable credential that can open up new job opportunities and career advancement. Becoming certified requires dedication and hard work, but it is worth the effort. If you believe that you meet the eligibility criteria for the CFM certification, take the first step and apply today.

How to Prepare for the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Exam

Preparing for the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Exam can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and preparation, you can ensure that you have the best chance of success. The following steps will help you to prepare for this important exam.

Understand the Exam Content: Before beginning your preparation for the CFM Exam, it is important to familiarize yourself with the exam content. The exam includes four primary domains: Facility Planning and Management; Facility Operations and Maintenance; Facility Finance and Business; and Facility Human Resources and Risk Management. Make sure that you understand the topics within each domain and the skills and knowledge that are required to pass the exam.

Get Acquainted with the Exam Format: The CFM Exam is a computer-based test and will consist of 150 multiple-choice questions. You will have three hours to complete the exam. Make sure that you understand the exam format and the type of questions you will be expected to answer.

Familiarize Yourself with the Study Materials: The CFM Exam is based on the International Facility Management Association’s (IFMA) Body of Knowledge. To prepare for the exam, you can access a variety of study materials, including an official test preparation guide, practice tests, and online courses. Familiarize yourself with these materials and use them to structure your study plan.

Create a Study Plan: Create a detailed study plan and set realistic goals for yourself. Make sure to include regular study sessions and breaks, and set aside time for practice exams. Your study plan should be tailored to your individual needs and abilities.

Make Use of Online Resources: There are a number of online resources available to help you with your CFM Exam preparation, including online forums and study groups. Take advantage of these resources and connect with other CFM Exam candidates to discuss topics and ask questions.

Take Practice Exams: Taking practice exams is an important part of your preparation for the CFM Exam. The practice exams will not only help you familiarize yourself with the exam format but also allow you to identify your weaknesses and strengthen your knowledge of the topics. By following these steps, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for the CFM Exam and have the best chance of success. Good luck!

What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Certified Facility Manager (CFM)?

Becoming a Certified Facility Manager (CFM) offers numerous benefits for individuals working in the field of facility management. CFM certification is the highest professional credential available for facility management professionals. By achieving certification, professionals demonstrate their knowledge, expertise, and dedication to the field. The most significant benefit of becoming a CFM is the recognition it provides within the field of facility management. CFM certification shows employers, peers, and clients that an individual has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to be an effective facility manager.

In addition, the certification is a form of validation that can open up new career opportunities. Another benefit of becoming a CFM is the career resources and support that is available to certified professionals. The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) offers a variety of services and benefits to members, including professional development opportunities, networking events, and discounts on IFMA events.

CFMs also have access to IFMA’s online career center, which provides resources such as job postings, employer profiles, career advice, and salary surveys. In addition, the CFM credential is globally recognized and valid for three years from the time of initial certification. This allows certified professionals to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the field even as their career progresses. Achieving CFM certification is an investment in a facility management professional’s career. It demonstrates expertise, provides access to exclusive resources, and gives certified professionals a competitive edge.

What Are the Best Resources to Prepare for the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Exam?

The Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Exam is an important step for professionals in the facility management field. To ensure success on the exam, it is important to understand the material and prepare thoroughly. The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is the main professional organization for facility management and administers the CFM Exam. They offer several resources to help individuals prepare for the exam. The IFMA website contains a CFM Exam Preparation Toolkit, which includes a study guide, practice questions, and other resources. It also provides instructions for creating an individualized study plan. The IFMA CFM Study Guide provides an overview of the material and topics covered on the exam.

It also includes tips and techniques to help individuals prepare and organize their study plan. Additionally, the IFMA offers a CFM Practice Exam to help individuals become familiar with the test format and question types. In addition to the IFMA's resources, there are other study materials available from third-party companies. These materials include review guides, practice tests, and flashcards. Many of these materials are tailored to the CFM Exam and provide detailed coverage of the topics.

Finally, individuals should take advantage of group study and review sessions. IFMA offers study groups and online forums that allow individuals to connect with other CFM exam takers and discuss topics covered on the exam. This is a great way to learn more about the material and get tips from more experienced individuals. Overall, there are a variety of resources available to help individuals prepare for the CFM Exam. By taking advantage of the resources provided by IFMA and other third-party companies, individuals can ensure they are well-prepared for the exam.

What Are the Continuing Education Requirements for the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Certification?

The Certified Facility Manager (CFM) certification is a professional credential for facility managers that is administered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). To maintain their CFM certification, facility managers must participate in ongoing professional development activities to keep their knowledge and expertise up-to-date. The CFM recertification requirements specify that CFMs must complete 60 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) every three years. CECs can be obtained through a variety of activities, such as:

• Attending IFMA or other professional facility management related conferences, workshops, seminars, and webinars

• Participating in IFMA chapter meetings

• Attending courses offered by IFMA Education Partners

• Participating in self-study programs

• Earning college credits

• Publishing articles or books related to the facility management profession

• Teaching or presenting related courses .

At least 30 of the 60 CECs required for recertification must come from IFMA-approved activities. The remaining 30 CECs can come from other sources, such as college credits or other professional development activities. In addition to completing the CECs, CFMs must also submit a renewal application and fee before the expiration date of their current certification. Renewal applications must be submitted at least 90 days before the expiration date of the current certification. By meeting the CFM certification requirements, facility managers can ensure that they are up-to-date on the latest industry developments and remain professionally qualified to manage and lead facility management operations.

Quick Summary!

Becoming a Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is an excellent way to demonstrate to employers and colleagues that you have the knowledge and experience to excel in the field of facility management. With the right combination of education, experience, and dedication, you can become a respected and successful CFM. From taking the CFM exam to becoming an active member in the IFMA, the process of becoming a CFM is rigorous but rewarding. With the right guidance and the right attitude, you can become a certified facility manager and make a lasting impact in the facility management field.