3 days ago
Meeting Planners Get a New Exam: What Changes in the CMP Certification
The CMP certification just completed a major overhaul. Here's what planners need to know about the updated CMP exam.
The Events Industry Council (EIC) has rolled out the revamped Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) exam — and it comes with fresh content and questions aimed at refreshing the credential and making it more globally relevant.
More than 1,000 meeting professionals contributed to the update, helping define the tasks and skills required by planners today. The process also involved a two-month beta testing in April–May followed by a two-month blackout with no exams taking place.
If you're already certified, nothing changes for you. But for new candidates, here's the scoop:
New questions but the same format: Multiple-choice, 165 scenario-based questions.
More global focus — but the exam is still only offered in English.
Three new knowledge areas (domains): Sustainability and social impact Technology integration Evaluation process
More emphasis on: Risk management Stakeholder management Talent management
Reduced focus on: Event design Financial management Site management Marketing and communications
Is it the CMP Worth It?
According to the EIC, the CMP designation is currently held by more than 13,000 meeting professionals across 55-plus countries. Some jobs require a CMP, but this is at the discretion of the hiring company.
Proponents of the certification point to better higher salaries. PCMA's most recent salary survey put the average salary for those with a CMP at nearly $110,000, but just above $104,000 for those without a CMP.
Certification is currently priced at $875, including a $525 exam fee. Requirements are unchanged, with candidates needing to demonstrate professional industry experience and earning 25 hours of continuing education within the past five years. Existing CMPs need to recertify every five years, and must provide the same proof, along with a recertification fee that starts at $325.
