CFM Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
The Certified Facility Manager (CFM) credential sets the industry standard for ensuring the knowledge and competence of practicing facility managers. Our free CFM practice test helps you prepare for this comprehensive exam by covering essential competencies like operations and maintenance, leadership, and finance.
Administered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), the CFM test is designed for experienced professionals. Whether you are reviewing for the first time or looking for an IFMA CFM practice test to gauge your readiness, our resources provide the realistic questions you need to succeed.
The Certified Facility Manager exam evaluates your mastery across 11 core competencies defined by IFMA's global job task analysis. Passing this exam demonstrates your ability to manage facility operations, lead teams, and oversee project planning effectively.
Free CFM Exam Questions
Take our comprehensive CFM practice test simulations to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Each quiz focuses on critical areas of the Certified Facility Manager exam syllabus.
CFM Exam Flashcards
Click to reveal answers for essential Certified Facility Manager topics.
CFM Exam Study Guide
Our comprehensive CFM study guide breaks down everything you need to know about the exam. From registration requirements to detailed competency reviews, this guide prepares you for the Certified Facility Manager test.
| What is the CFM exam? | The Certified Facility Manager (CFM) exam is a competency-based certification that validates a professional's mastery of the core competencies of facility management. |
| Who should take the CFM test? | Experienced facility managers who want to demonstrate their expertise and advance their careers should take the CFM test. It is the gold standard for FM professionals. |
| What competencies are on the CFM exam? | The CFM exam covers 11 competencies: Operations & Maintenance, Leadership & Strategy, Finance & Business, Project Management, Communication, Performance & Quality, Facility Information & Technology Management, Occupancy & Human Factors, Real Estate, Risk Management, and Sustainability. |
| Is the CFM certification global? | Yes, the CFM certification is globally recognized and administered by IFMA, making it valuable for professionals working internationally. |
| How many questions are on the CFM exam? | The CFM exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions which must be completed within a 4-hour time limit. |
| Is the CFM test computer-based? | Yes, the CFM test is a computer-based examination administered at Prometric testing centers or via remote proctoring. |
| What is the format of CFM questions? | The CFM questions are scenario-based multiple-choice items designed to test your ability to apply facility management principles to real-world situations. |
| Can I use a calculator on the CFM exam? | A basic calculator is usually provided within the exam software, but personal calculators are typically not allowed. Check the candidate handbook for specific rules. |
| How do I register for the CFM exam? | To register for the CFM exam, you must first complete the application form on the IFMA website and submit verification of your education and experience. |
| What are the prerequisites for the CFM exam? | Prerequisites include a combination of education and experience, such as a related degree plus 3 years of FM experience, or 5 years of experience without a degree. |
| Where can I take the CFM test? | You can take the CFM test at any authorized Prometric testing center worldwide or choose the remote proctoring option to take it from home. |
| How much does the CFM application cost? | The application fee is separate from the exam fee. Always check the official IFMA website for the most current fee structure. |
| What is the passing score for the CFM exam? | The CFM exam uses a scaled scoring method. While a specific percentage isn't released, you must meet the minimum competency standard to pass. |
| When do I get my CFM exam results? | You will receive a preliminary pass/fail result immediately upon completing the computer-based exam at the testing center. |
| What if I fail the CFM test? | If you fail the CFM test, you can retake it. There is typically a waiting period and a re-examination fee required. |
| How long is the CFM certification valid? | The CFM certification is valid for three years. You must earn maintenance points through continuing education to renew it. |
| What is the average CFM salary? | Certified Facility Managers typically earn significantly more than their non-certified counterparts, with average salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. |
| Does a CFM certification increase pay? | Yes, earning the CFM certification is widely recognized as a key factor in salary negotiation and career advancement in the facility management industry. |
| What jobs can I get with a CFM? | With a CFM, you can qualify for roles such as Facility Director, Operations Manager, Building Manager, and VP of Facilities. |
| Is the CFM exam worth the investment? | Given the potential for salary increases and career growth, the investment in the CFM exam fees and preparation is considered highly valuable by industry professionals. |
CFM Test Format
The CFM test format is designed to assess your competence across a broad range of facility management topics. Understanding the distribution of CFM test questions across the 11 competencies is crucial for effective study.
Focuses on building systems, maintenance planning, and service delivery.
- Topics: HVAC, Preventive Maintenance, Contracts
- Questions: Approx. 15-20%
Covers strategic planning, policy development, and team leadership.
- Topics: Strategic Alignment, CSR, Innovation
- Questions: Approx. 10-15%
Involves financial management, budgeting, and procurement.
- Topics: ROI Analysis, Capital Planning, Sourcing
- Questions: Approx. 10-15%
Covers the lifecycle of facility projects from planning to closeout.
- Topics: Scheduling, Scope Management, Design
- Questions: Approx. 10-12%
Focuses on environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
- Topics: Energy Mgmt, Water Conservation, LEED
- Questions: Approx. 8-10%
Involves emergency preparedness, business continuity, and safety.
- Topics: EHS, Security, Disaster Recovery
- Questions: Approx. 8-10%
The CFM exam relies heavily on scenario-based questions. Don't just memorize definitions; understand how to apply FM principles to solve complex operational problems.
CFM Score Calculator
Estimate your readiness for the Certified Facility Manager exam based on practice scores.
CFM Salary Information
Earning your Certified Facility Manager credential can lead to a significant increase in salary and career opportunities. Here is a breakdown of potential earnings.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $65,000 | ~$5,400 | 0-2 Years |
| Mid-Level | $105,000 | ~$8,750 | 5-10 Years |
| Senior Level | $125,000 | ~$10,400 | 10-15 Years |
| Director | $145,000 | ~$12,000 | 15+ Years |
| Executive | $160,000+ | ~$13,300+ | 20+ Years |
Professionals with the CFM certification often report salary increases of up to 15% compared to their non-certified peers. It pays to be certified!
How to Become a CFM
The journey to becoming a Certified Facility Manager involves meeting education and experience requirements before taking the exam. Here is a step-by-step CFM certification timeline.
- Verify Eligibility - Ensure you have the required combination of education and facility management experience (e.g., related degree + 3 years experience).
- Submit Application - Complete the CFM application online through the IFMA website and pay the application fees.
- Schedule Exam - Once approved, schedule your CFM test appointment with Prometric, either at a center or via CFM online proctoring.
- Study & Prepare - Use a CFM study guide and take a CFM practice test to prepare for the 11 competencies.
- Take the Exam - Complete the 4-hour, 120-question exam.
- Receive Results - Get your preliminary pass/fail results immediately after the exam.
- Maintain Certification - Renew your credential every 3 years by earning maintenance points.
CFM Certification Cost
Understanding the CFM exam cost is essential for budgeting your certification journey. Prices vary for IFMA members and non-members.
Expect to invest between $650 and $1,000 total for the CFM certification, depending on your membership status and study material choices.
CFM Career Paths
Earning a Certified Facility Manager credential opens doors to diverse roles in the built environment.
CFM Contact Information
For official inquiries about the CFM exam, contact the administering bodies directly.
Many employers specifically look for the CFM credential when hiring for senior facility management roles. Check the IFMA Career Center for listings.
CFM Test Day Checklist
Master the CFM Exam Today
Get instant access to free CFM practice questions and comprehensive study guides. Join thousands of facility managers who passed their certification with our resources.
START FREE PRACTICE TESTCFM Renewal Requirements
To maintain your Certified Facility Manager status, you must renew your credential every three years. The process ensures you stay current with industry trends.
Earning maintenance points for CFM recertification is easy through IFMA chapter meetings, webinars, conferences, and continuing education courses.
CFM Exam Questions and Answers
The CFM exam passing score is determined by a scaled scoring system used by IFMA. While a specific percentage isn't published, candidates must meet the minimum competency standard established by the credentialing board to pass the Certified Facility Manager examination.
The CFM test consists of 120 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 4 hours to complete the Certified Facility Manager exam, which covers 11 core competencies of facility management.
To find a location to take the CFM exam near me, visit the Prometric website. IFMA partners with Prometric to offer testing centers globally, or you can opt for CFM online proctoring to take the exam from home.
Yes, taking a CFM practice test online is one of the best ways to prepare. Our free online resources allow you to simulate the testing environment and review key concepts like operations, leadership, and finance.
The CFM certification cost varies by membership status. For IFMA members, the exam fee is typically $550, while non-members pay around $815. Additional costs may apply for application fees and study materials.
The CFM exam covers 11 competencies including Operations and Maintenance, Project Management, Finance and Business, Leadership and Strategy, and Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability.
Yes, you can find IFMA CFM test answers PDF resources online. Our website offers downloadable PDFs with CFM practice questions and detailed explanations to help you study.
The Certified Facility Manager exam is considered challenging because it is competency-based and tests experience rather than just memorization. A solid study plan and using a CFM study guide are essential for passing.
Yes, you can retake the CFM test. Candidates who fail must wait a mandatory period before rescheduling and are required to pay a re-examination fee, which is typically discounted compared to the initial fee.
Professionals with CFM certification earn a median salary of over $100,000 annually. Senior roles like Facility Director can command salaries upwards of $145,000 depending on location and experience.