CMA Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the CMA exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.

๐Ÿ“‹ CMA Exam Format at a Glance

100
Questions
150 min
Time Limit
75.00%
Passing Score

๐Ÿ“š CMA Topics to Study (75)

โœ๏ธ Sample CMA Questions & Answers

1. A borrower chooses a 15-year mortgage over a 30-year mortgage at the same rate. Compared to the 30-year loan, the 15-year mortgage will:
โœ“ Have a higher monthly payment and significantly less total interest

A 15-year mortgage has higher monthly payments but dramatically reduces total interest paid and builds equity far more quickly.

2. A non-English-speaking client is applying for a mortgage. What is the advisor's responsibility under fair lending principles?
โœ“ Provide or arrange for translated materials and clear communication to ensure the client understands all loan terms and disclosures

Fair lending principles and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act prohibit discrimination based on national origin, requiring advisors to make reasonable accommodations.

3. An investor purchases a duplex with an FHA loan and lives in one unit while renting the other. This strategy is commonly called:
โœ“ House hacking

House hacking involves living in one unit of a multi-family property while renting the others to offset or eliminate housing costs.

4. During a period of economic recession, what is the most probable government and market response regarding interest rates?
โœ“ The Federal Reserve will lower key interest rates to stimulate economic activity.

In an economic downturn or recession, the Federal Reserve's typical response is to lower the federal funds rate. This action makes borrowing cheaper for banks, and these savings are generally passed on to consumers and businesses, leading to lower mortgage rates. The goal is to encourage borrowing and spending to stimulate economic growth.

5. Under federal mortgage servicing rules, a borrower's loan is generally considered delinquent when a payment is how many days past due?
โœ“ 30 days past the due date

A mortgage is typically reported as delinquent and triggers servicer action protocols when a payment is 30 days past the contractual due date.

6. When a client asks for an advisor's personal opinion on whether home prices will rise or fall, the ethical response is to:
โœ“ Clarify that market timing is uncertain and provide factual current market data instead

Advisors must distinguish between factual data and speculation, avoiding predictions that could unduly influence major client decisions.

๐ŸŽฏ Free CMA Practice Tests

๐Ÿ“– CMA Guides & Articles

Your CMA Study Path
1. Learn with Flashcards โ†’ 2. Drill Practice Tests โ†’ 3. Take the Full Exam Simulation
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CMA Study Guide 2026 โ€” Exam Format, Topics & Practice Questions