The CMA exam went through its biggest format change in years during 2026. Essays, which many candidates found the hardest and slowest part, were replaced by case-based questions (CBQs). What you study stays the same. What you practise, and how you manage time on exam day, should change.
The CMA exam structure after the change
| Section | What it contains |
|---|---|
| Multiple choice | 100 questions per part |
| Case-based questions | 2 sets per part. Each has a case of about 250 words followed by 6–7 application questions |
| Question formats in CBQs | Drag-and-drop, multiple select, numerical entry, list selection and some standard multiple choice |
| Gate between sections | You must score at least 50% on multiple choice to reach the CBQ section |
| Total exam time | Unchanged by the update |
How the change was phased in
- January–February 2026: multiple choice plus essays.
- May–June 2026: candidates chose essays or case-based questions.
- From September–October 2026: multiple choice plus case-based questions only.
Any study material written before 2026 that focuses heavily on essay writing is now out of date for that section.
Are case-based questions easier than essays?
Different, rather than simply easier. Essays rewarded clear written explanations; CBQs reward fast, accurate application with many small scored answers. Three practical effects:
- Partial knowledge scores more reliably. Each case has several separately scored questions, so one weak area costs less than a failed essay.
- Calculation speed matters more. Numerical entry leaves no room to guess between options.
- Reading the case carefully is essential. Most CBQ mistakes come from missing a detail in the scenario, not from not knowing the topic.
Scoring and the passing score
Each part is scored on a scale from 0 to 500, and 360 is a pass. The multiple-choice section carries most of the weight, and the 50% gate means a weak multiple-choice performance can end the exam before you reach the cases. Build your preparation on multiple choice first, then add CBQ practice.
CMA pass rates
IMA has described the average global pass rate as about 50% for both parts, and rates have historically been fairly stable. IMA had not published pass rates specific to the case-based format when this page was checked. Faster, more objective scoring could change that picture once enough candidates have sat the new format.
Results are now much faster. Scores are expected roughly one to two weeks after exam day, compared with about six weeks under the essay format. That makes it easier to plan Part 2 straight after Part 1.
How to adapt your preparation
- Use 2026-format practice material. Check that your review course includes CBQ simulations.
- Practise timed multiple-choice blocks first. Passing the 50% gate comfortably is the foundation.
- Drill numerical entry. Budgeting, variance, ratio and capital budgeting calculations appear often in cases.
- Plan your hours by topic weight. Use the CMA study planner.
Frequently asked questions
What changed in the CMA exam in 2026?
Each part still has 100 multiple-choice questions, but the two essay questions were replaced by two case-based question sets. Each set has a short case followed by six or seven application questions in formats such as numerical entry, drag-and-drop and multiple select.
When did CMA case-based questions start?
The change was phased in through 2026. January–February used essays, May–June let candidates choose essays or case-based questions, and from September–October 2026 all candidates sit case-based questions.
What is the CMA passing score?
The passing score is 360 on a scaled range of 0 to 500 for each part. You must also score at least 50% on the multiple-choice section to move on to the case-based section.
What is the CMA pass rate?
IMA has described the average global pass rate as about 50% for both Part 1 and Part 2. It had not published separate pass rates for the case-based format when this page was checked.
How long does it take to get CMA results now?
Because case-based questions are scored more objectively than essays, results are expected about one to two weeks after the exam, compared with roughly six weeks under the essay format.