{"id":1774,"date":"2020-08-17T16:30:12","date_gmt":"2020-08-17T16:30:12","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/acarp-edu.org\/p2p\/?page_id=1774"},"modified":"2026-02-23T12:31:31","modified_gmt":"2026-02-23T12:31:31","slug":"the-exam","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/acarp-edu.org\/cfom\/the-exam\/","title":{"rendered":"The Exam"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The Certified Finance Operations Manager Exam<\/h2>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n
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\r\n \r\n Exam overview<\/span><\/a>\r\n \r\n Exam framework<\/span><\/a>\r\n \r\n Exam section weighting<\/span><\/a>\r\n \r\n Retake policy<\/span><\/a>\r\n \r\n Quick facts<\/span><\/a>\r\n \r\n Exam prep & Certificate<\/span><\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n
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Overview of the CFOM exam<\/h2>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n
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The Certified Finance Operations Manager (CFOM)<\/strong> exam is a professional certification that validates a candidate’s expertise in managing and optimising the operational functions within the finance sector. It\u2019s\r\n designed for professionals who oversee finance-related processes such as financial transactions, budgeting, forecasting, risk management, internal controls, and financial reporting.<\/p>\r\n

This certification demonstrates that a professional possesses both strategic insight and practical knowledge to lead finance operations in a modern, dynamic business environment.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Sitting the exam<\/h2>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n
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The exam is taken online within the IFOL Certification Academy, which is where you will also access the study materials and exam preparation resources. The exam is available on-demand and can be entered at a time and date which\r\n suits you.<\/p>\r\n

The CFOM exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and allows 90 minutes to answer all questions. Prior to the exam, you will be prompted to review the online course materials and any notes you have made throughout your studies<\/span><\/p>\r\n

During the examination, you will have the opportunity to review the answers you have provided. When you have answered and confirmed your answer for all questions, your answers will be submitted and your final score calculated.\r\n Subsequently at the end of the exam you will receive a pass or fail mark. The minimum pass mark is 80%.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Finance Operations Manager Certification \u2013 Exam Framework<\/h2>\r\n

Total Questions<\/span>:<\/h4>\r\n

100 questions<\/p>\r\n

Format<\/span>:<\/h4>\r\n

Online, mixed-format questions<\/p>\r\n

Duration<\/span>:<\/h4>\r\n

120 minutes (2 hours)<\/p>\r\n

Minimum Passing Score<\/span>:<\/h4>\r\n

80% (90% or more earns distinction<\/em>)<\/p>\r\n

Scoring Model:<\/span><\/h4>\r\n

Compensatory (no section minimum, overall score determines pass\/fail)<\/p>\r\n

Attempt Limit<\/span>:<\/h4>\r\n

3 attempts per year<\/p>\r\n

Tools Allowed:<\/span><\/h4>\r\n

On-screen calculator, scratchpad<\/p>\r\n

Question Types:<\/span><\/h4>\r\n

Multiple Choice (MCQ)<\/p>\r\n

Multi-select<\/p>\r\n

Scenario-based case questions<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Exam section weighting<\/h2>\r\n

The Finance Operations Manager Certification exam is structured to reflect the real-world responsibilities and risk areas overseen by senior finance operations professionals. Each section is weighted according to its relative\r\n importance in ensuring strong financial governance, operational excellence, and strategic oversight across the finance function.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Governance & Compliance (15%)<\/h4>\r\n

This is the foundation of all finance operations. It covers internal controls, regulatory requirements, SOX, and risk management\u2014core competencies that safeguard the organisation and ensure reliable financial reporting.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Accounts Receivable Operations (15%)<\/h4>\r\n

AR performance directly affects cash flow, working capital, and customer relationships. This section evaluates operational accuracy, controls, credit management, and process optimisation.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Accounts Payable Operations (15%)<\/h4>\r\n

AP drives cost control, supplier relationships, and fraud prevention. The weighting reflects the critical role AP plays in operational efficiency and financial integrity.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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General Ledger & Financial Close (15%)<\/h4>\r\n

The GL is the centre of financial reporting. This area tests candidates\u2019 ability to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and governance throughout the close cycle.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Technology & Automation (15%)<\/h4>\r\n

Modern finance functions rely heavily on ERP systems, automation, and digital tools. This section assesses competency in leveraging technology to improve accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Strategic Leadership (15%)<\/h4>\r\n

Finance Operations Managers must lead teams, drive improvements, influence stakeholders, and support strategic objectives. This weighting reflects the leadership expectations of the role.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Advanced Governance, Audit & Treasury (10%)<\/h4>\r\n

This section brings together higher-level financial oversight, audit readiness, treasury controls, and enterprise-level risk management\u2014key competencies for senior operational leaders.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Retake policy\r\n
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Enrolees receive 3 attempts to pass the CFOM exam included with the initial enrollment fees, outlined below are the enforced time gaps between attempts.<\/p>\r\n

24 hour wait after attempt 1<\/p>\r\n

2 day wait after attempt 2<\/p>\r\n

Max 3 attempts in 12 months<\/p>\r\n

Note: each attempt uses a new randomised item pool<\/em><\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Quick Exam Facts<\/h2>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/div>\r\n
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