Certification FAQs

IMPORTANT: The Commission has transitioned to a new testing vendor, Pearson VUE!  

Q - What is the Commission for Case Manager Certification?

A - The CCMC is the first and largest nationally accredited organization that certifies case managers. The CCMC is a non-profit, volunteer organization that oversees the process of case manager certification.

Q - I have forgotten my username/password.

A - Go to "Log In" and choose “Forgot Password”. Your password will be emailed to the email listed in your CCMC record. Please check your junk/spam folder as well.

Q – I am having trouble seeing my dashboard.

A - Microsoft Edge and Internet Explorer has known incompatibilities with the functionality of the CCMC website. Please only use current versions of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox for the best experience. 

Q - How can I get a copy of my receipt?

A - Please LOG IN. It will change to MY ACCOUNT. There will be a menu where you can select Print Receipts.

Q - How do I receive my CCM certificate?

A - An email will be sent to you to order your complimentary certificate, with the option to order additional copies and frames to display your certificate.
For candidates who recently passed the exam, you will be notified within 1-2 weeks after CCMC issues exam results. If you are a current CCM, LOG IN to "My CCMC Dashboard to access the Award Group. 

If you are eligible for renewal, you will be notified to order a complimentary certificate once your renewal is approved.

Please be sure to monitor your emails, including your spam folder for an email from the Commission, ccmchq@ccmcertification.org. Adding this email to your address book will ensure receipt.

 

APPLICATION and EXAM

Certification Guide Exam Guide

Q - How much is the application?

A -  $225 (Non-refundable)

Q - How much is the exam?

A - $195
Total paid with the Application is $420

Q - Are there discounts or special offers?

A- Yes, if you are eligible and fall under any of the following:

Active Military and VA Employee discounts
NASW Collaborative

**CCMC will occasionally run promotional campaigns that will be sent via email. This will include promotional codes that will be needed to enter into your application at the time of applying. Please make sure you check your emails to see if there are current promotions running. Your promotion will NOT be applied after you have already submitted an application. 
 

Q - What is the process to become certified?

A - You must meet all eligibility requirements, fill out and submit a complete application, including employer and primary license information, with complete fees. Once your application is approved, you will be notified and assigned a candidate ID number. You may then schedule your exam at a local computer-based testing site. After you take the exam, you will be notified of your test results and mailed a certificate and letter of certification if you've passed.

Q - When can I apply for the exam?

A - View the application timeline.

Q: How many testing locations are available for me to choose from?

A: Candidates will be able to choose from approximately 5,000 test administration centers in 180+ countries and territories

Q - I am unable to take the exam, can I receive a refund?

A - If you are unable to take the test during the exam cycle for which you are approved, you may request and pay a one-time deferment ($85) to the next consecutive exam cycle. To make this request, you must first contact Pearson VUE to cancel the original appointment. Then contact CCMC Customer Service at 856-380-6836 or ccmchq@ccmcertification.org to set up a deferment. If you do not take the exam, and you do not schedule a deferment, you will have to reapply and pay for a new application and exam. ($420)

Q - How do I know if I am eligible to apply?

A - Refer to the Certification Guide to determine if you are eligible.

Q - Do LPN/LVN licenses meet the education eligibility requirements?

A - A LPN or LVN can apply if they have earned a baccalaureate or graduate degree in health or human services as outlined in the Certification Guide.

 

Q: Does a Criminal Justice Degree meet the eligibility requirements?

A: Typically, a Criminal Justice Degree will be initially denied as meeting the education requirements to sit for the CCM examination. All applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements located in the Certification Guide before completing an application. 

Q - I need special testing accommodations. Will CCMC help me?

A- SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS: If you require any special accommodations (extra time, separate room, medication, religious/mobility accommodations, etc.) to take the upcoming exam and are not listed on the approved comfort list, please notify CCMC immediately and DO NOT schedule your appointment with Pearson VUE. CCMC will need proper medical documentation explaining why and what accommodations you will need to take your exam. The deadline to request a special accommodation is the end of the application window. See the application timeline here. 
*All no-show appointments with special accommodations will be subject to a $200 fee. 

Q - I’ve been approved to test. How do I get my testing number so I can schedule with Pearson VUE?

A - Once you are approved, you will receive an email with your candidate ID number and instructions for scheduling your exam with Pearson VUE.

Q- I need help deciding if I should take my exam at a testing center or online

A- Take a look at the decision tree here!

Q - What can I expect when I arrive at the testing center?

A – Please take a moment to view the informational videos below:

• What to expect at the testing center: https://youtu.be/L1wNSNzdlNw

• What to expect taking the exam online through OnVue; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSWXzhavOwg

Q - My CCM exam was canceled due to testing center closures. How can I reschedule to take my exam online through remote proctoring?

A - If you are impacted by a test center closure, you will receive an email with information on how to reschedule your exam.

Tip: Be sure to keep your email address up to date in your account profile and don’t forget to list Pearson VUE as an approved sender!

Q - My scheduled exam date is approaching, but I would rather take my exam online. How can I reschedule and opt to take the exam online through remote proctoring?

A – You will have to visit Pearson VUE’s website to cancel and reschedule your exam appointment

Q - How do I request ADA accommodations for my online exam?

A - If you require test accommodations in order to take your online exam, you must apply for and receive approval from CCMC before scheduling your exam. All accommodation requests must be submitted PRIOR to the end of the application window. See the timeline here. Once your request is submitted, you are required to have your medical provider submit documentation of disability and what accommodations are being requested and send to ccmchq@ccmcertification.org. Please note, CCMC will not consider requests for accommodations without supporting documentation, and you will not be unable to schedule your exam until your accommodations are approved. Please note, that accommodations for remote proctoring at home are limited, please check with CCMC first.

Q - In what languages are the online exams offered through Pearson VUE?

A - CCM online exams and communication will be conducted in English only

Q - How do I schedule for the CCM online exam?

A - After you have applied for a CCM exam, been approved, and received your exam scheduling instructions, you can visit CCMC's scheduling page to schedule your appointment.

Q - How do I ensure the OnVUE system is compatible with my computer?

A - To ensure your computer will be compatible, please visit https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/OnVUE-tips.aspx

Q - Can I use a corporate computer for my remote exam?

A - When testing online, you’ll provide your own computer equipment, so be sure you’ve got the following before exam day:

• Required: a desktop or a laptop computer. Tablets can only be used as a screen, paired with an external keyboard. Touch screens cannot be used for your exam.

• Required: a single monitor. Remove any extra monitors from the testing room, or at least unplug them before taking your test-space photos during check-in.

• Required if using an external monitor with a laptop: an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam, and the lid of your laptop must remain closed throughout your exam.

• Recommended: a personal computer rather than an employer-issued computer, which may have additional security settings that can interfere with your exam.

Q - Is there anything I need to do before scheduling my online exam? Can I practice for the new online proctored testing format?

A - As a way to prepare for your online exam, we suggest you visit https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/OnVUE-tips.aspx for some tips. Also, to review a short video overview of the testing experience, see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSWXzhavOwg

Q: Can I test my computer before my scheduled exam?

A- YES! It is encouraged

By running this test using the same computer and internet connection you plan to use for your exam, you can feel confident about your setup. Plus, you get a preview of the check-in and exam launch processes.

We suggest running the system test at approximately the same time of day you expect to take your exam, to get a better feel for the internet connection you’re likely to have. If you run the system test at 10:00 pm and take your exam at 2:00 pm, the bandwidth available may be quite different.

We recommend running the system test again two to three days before your exam. This will identify any issues that might arise from automatic software downloads, background upgrades, etc.

The system test check-in and exam are only simulated. Your answer to the sample exam question posed will not be checked or retained. You can run the system test as many times as needed.

If your setup fails the system test or doesn’t meet minimum requirements, you can take your exam at a testing center instead.

Q - What are the technical requirements for taking an online exam?

A – Please review the tips for taking the exam online: https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/OnVUE-tips.aspx

Read all the information here: https://home.pearsonvue.com/op/OnVUE-technical-requirements

Q - How does online exam work?

A - Similar to test center-based testing, online proctored testing requires that you be monitored by a proctor while you take your exam via your microphone and webcam. Before starting the exam, the candidate must present a valid, unexpired government-issued ID that is both signature and photo-bearing. Both ID signature and print must match the candidate’s name in demographics and look like the candidate. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, military identification card, passport, state identification card, and a valid national identification card. Your image and pictures of your surroundings will be captured. Once you begin the exam, you will not be permitted to leave the room or move out of the proctor’s view without first notifying and being acknowledged by the Proctor. Failure to inform the Proctor prior to taking a break or failure to return on time may result in an inability to complete the exam. Once the candidate returns from a break, a full security scan will be conducted prior to resuming the exam. Please note, exam time will continue to run during a break.

Q - What should I do if I have internet issues during a remote proctored exam?

A - Bandwidth speed drops can occur while using Wi-Fi, and can be spotty. CCMC suggests only the candidate use the internet for testing or hardwire where possible.

Q - What should I do if I have technical issues during a remote proctored exam?

A - Your proctor attempts to resolve technical issues in real time. If an issue cannot be resolved, the proctor will file a case on your behalf. Please contact the Commission as soon as possible.

Q - I have contacted technical support, what can I expect for a resolution to my remote proctor issue?

A – Pearson VUE’s technical support agents will work with you to troubleshoot your individual and unique problem. Steps they may take as part of the resolution will vary depending upon issue. This may include asking you to reboot your machine, and in some cases, it is necessary for them to see what you are experiencing on screen. This will help expedite your resolution and get you back to your exam as quickly as possible.

Q - Where can I take my remote proctored exam?

A - The place where you’ll take your exam is one of your most crucial decisions. For best results, prepare your testing environment before exam day to ensure it will be:

• Private: Ideally, choose an enclosed space that allows for privacy and prevents others from entering or even passing through once you’ve started your exam. Avoid testing near windows or glass partitions to prevent others from viewing your screen.

• Quiet: Background noise may distract proctors monitoring your exam session and could interfere with your session.

• Free from interruptions: Inform any other members of your household that you are taking an exam and cannot be interrupted during it.

• Well lit: Proctors must be able to see you and your testing space well. Too much background light (natural or electric) could create visibility issues for your proctor, so avoid sitting in front of a window or other strong light.

• Cleared of personal and preparatory items: Clear your desk/workspace of all personal and preparatory items, except for those allowed by your exam program, which must be on the desk during check-in. Keep your mobile phone in the room where you’re testing, but out of arm’s reach; it must be available should we need to contact you.

Q - What devices do I need for online proctor testing?

A - You will need a stable internet connection and a reliable computer with a microphone and webcam. Please visit https://home.pearsonvue.com/op/OnVUE-technical-requirements to review a full list of system requirements and instructions for running a system test prior to your exam.

Q - Where do I go to check in on exam day for my remote proctored exam?

A: On exam day: 

• We recommend logging into your account 30 minutes early to start the check-in process and to allow for any troubleshooting. 

• This allows optimal preparedness but does not guarantee an early admittance or start time.

• If you are more than 15 minutes late after your scheduled exam time, you will be unable to begin your exam and you will not receive a refund.

To check into your exam: 

• Select Check-in to start exam on your confirmation, reschedule or reminder emails, OR

• Log in: https://home.pearsonvue.com/ccmc/onvue

• View your upcoming appointment.

• Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the check-in process.

• You will need to complete check-in before you can start your exam. 

Q - Once logged in to OnVUE, what is the hold time to actually start my exam?

A- Please make sure you log in at least 30 minutes prior to the start of your exam. You will be able to launch within 15 minutes of your exam.

Q - Will I be able to access the internet while taking my remote proctored exam?

A - Your computer will be locked down once you start your exam.

Q - Will I be able to use my phone while taking my remote proctored exam?

A - The use of mobile phones is prohibited during your exam. Using your phone may result in your exam session being terminated and you should prepare to be unreachable by phone while taking your exams. Mobile phones and other electronic devices must be placed out of arm's reach before you begin your exam. If there is a technical software issue during the exam, the proctor will try to contact you online using the software. If the proctor cannot contact you via software, they will call you at the phone number you provided during the check-in process.

Q - Will I receive instant results once I complete my online remote exam?

A - Upon completion of the computer-based examination, you will receive an e-mail from Pearson VUE with your test results. CCMC emails exam results within six weeks of the end of the exam period.

Q - Is technical software assistance available during the exam? For example, what if there is a power outage during the exam?

A – Pearson VUE will text your mobile device and if the internet is still available, they will chat with you via the software. If not resolved, a case will be filed, with most cases investigated and resolved within 3-5 business days.

Q - What if I can’t find an appointment date and time to meet my needs?

A -There are nearly 6,000 test centers to choose from in more than 180 countries, chances are you’ll find a location nearby. Some exams can even be taken online, from the convenience of your own home if you cannot find a convenient location. Check your program page to find out if this is an option you can choose.

Q - How long will it take for me to be notified of my results?

A - You will receive a Pass/Not Pass notification at the test center and will be emailed the results within 48 hours.

Q - If I did not pass, how will I be notified of my performance on the exam?

A - CCMC receives the official results from Pearson VUE about 2 weeks after the last day of the exam administration. All candidates will receive an email notification to check your dashboard. For those that did not pass, the dashboard will include their performance for each domain. CCMC exams apply three domain breakdown levels: Deficient, Marginal, and Proficient.

Q - What is my actual score?

As the gold standard in case manager certification, CCMC strives to improve our processes and performance. In conjunction with the release of the new exam blueprint, the Commission reviews its policies and procedures in accordance with our accreditations regularly. As a result of these ongoing reviews, specific scores are not available. Candidates can be assured that the pass/no pass results are reliable.

Q - Why won’t you share my actual score?

As the gold standard in case manager certification, CCMC strives to improve our processes and performance. In conjunction with the release of the new exam blueprint, the Commission reviews its policies and procedures in accordance with our accreditations regularly. As a result of these ongoing reviews, specific scores are not available. Candidates can be assured that the pass/no pass results are reliable.

Q - I failed the exam. What are my options?

A - You can schedule a retake ($185) for the next cycle by contacting Customer Service at 856-380-6836 or ccmchq@ccmcertification.org. The candidate is only permitted one retake per application. The application is only VALID for two consecutive exam windows. If you do not schedule the retake in the next consecutive cycle, you will have to re-apply and pay the application and exam fee ($420).

Q - I had a death in the family. I would like to defer to the next cycle. What do I do?

A - You can request a one-time deferment by first contacting Pearson VUE via their website to cancel the original exam appointment. Then contact CCMC Customer Service at 856-380-6836 or ccmchq@ccmcertification.org to set up a deferment ($85). Deferment can be made any time between the time of initial approval and the week before the last day of the next exam cycle. If you do not take the exam in the first available cycle and you fail to schedule a deferral, you will need to complete a new application and pay application and exam fees ($395)

Q - Can you recommend any study guides to help me prepare?

A - CCMC does not endorse or recommend any preparatory course or materials. Review the exam guide and the different Domains that are included in the exam and concentrate on those areas in which you feel you have had less experience or that you do not perform on a regular basis. CCMC has published a list of references and a glossary of terms that are listed on the website. CCMC does offer a Practice Exam to provide a true exam experience for applicants.

Q - How many questions are on the exam?

A - The exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions. 150 are operational and 30 are pretest items. The exam is comprised of 5 major domains and 59 subdomains. You will have 3 hours to complete the content portion of the test.

Q - My application was denied. What can I do?

A - You can appeal the decision by making a request through your dashboard within 30 days. You will be required to submit additional information. If the denial is upheld, you will receive a refund of the examination fee.

Q - I am a social worker. Am I eligible?

A – Any health or human services professional with a four-year degree as outlined in the Certification Guide and who meets the employment experience requirements is eligible to sit for the CCM exam.

 

Q: I did not pass the exam, how do I interpret my domain breakdown?

A: CCMC exams apply three domain breakdown levels: Deficient (1), Marginal (2), and Proficient (3)

Disclaimer: The domain diagnostic information is intended to provide you with feedback on your performance at each domain area, i.e. your demonstrated areas of strengths and weaknesses. However, prior success in one content area does not guarantee repeated success in the same content area on another attempt at the exam. Therefore, you should use this feedback as a guide to help determine areas to focus on should you elect to retake the exam.

1. Deficient - The score you obtained is below an acceptable level; substantial study of this content area is recommended prior to retaking the examination.

2. Marginal - The score you obtained is near an acceptable level; study of this content area is recommended prior to retaking the examination.

3. Proficient - The score you obtained in this domain is at or above the acceptable level. A review of this content area may be helpful to you prior to retaking the examination.

 

Q - What is the CCM Exam Pass rate?

A- Pass rate is defined as the percentage of people who pass the exam each time it is administered. This rate varies with each administration as well as for first-time exam candidates vs. retake candidates. The pass rate is NOT the exam candidate's score on the exam. For example, annual exam results are included below:

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