Comprehensive Guide to the Society of Defense Financial Management (SDFM) Certification and Testing
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by
John Calif
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Overview of the Society of Defense Financial Management
The Society of Defense Financial Management (SDFM), formerly known as the American Society of Military Comptrollers (ASMC), is a prestigious non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of financial management professionals in the Department of Defense (DoD) and the U.S. Coast Guard. SDFM plays a crucial role in promoting education, training, and certification for those involved in defense financial management. Its mission encompasses driving financial transformation in the defense sector and maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards.
Achieving Certification with the CDFM Program
The Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM) Program
The CDFM certification is designed for professionals aiming to showcase their expertise in defense financial management. Recognized by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), the CDFM and its Acquisition Specialty (CDFM-A) are endorsed as alternatives to the Defense Financial Management Certification Program (DFMCP) certifications at levels 2 and 3.
Certification Requirements
To earn the CDFM credential, candidates must:
- Meet Educational and Experience Criteria: Candidates must demonstrate relevant educational and professional experience in defense financial management.
- Pass Three Core Exams: The certification involves passing three multiple-choice exams that cover:
- Module 1: Resource Management Environment
- Module 2: Budget and Cost Analysis
- Module 3: Accounting and Finance
- Recertify Every Two Years: To maintain the certification, professionals must fulfill ongoing education and professional development requirements.
Passing the Module 4 exam, which focuses on defense acquisition competencies, earns candidates the CDFM-A designation, recognizing their specialized expertise in acquisition.
For detailed information on how to get certified, visit SDFM Certification Overview.
Essential Resources for CDFM Candidates
CDFM Candidate Handbook
Before embarking on the certification journey, all candidates should thoroughly review the CDFM Candidate Handbook. This handbook provides comprehensive details on certification requirements, policies, procedures, and exam rules. The exam blueprints within the handbook are essential for focused preparation.
Scheduling Your CDFM Exam
- Enroll in the CDFM Program: Start by enrolling through the SDFM website.
- Purchase Your Exam: After enrollment, purchase your exam through the same portal.
- Receive Pearson VUE Candidate ID: Expect an email with your Pearson VUE candidate ID and instructions for scheduling.
Exams can be scheduled for both in-person at Pearson VUE test centers or via remote proctoring (OnVUE). Note that appointments at military base test centers require prior approval.
At-Home Online Proctored Testing (OnVUE)
Preparation Steps:
- Review Policies: Read the Pearson VUE OnVUE policies to understand system requirements and exam procedures.
- System Test: Complete the System Test on the same computer and location where you will take the exam to ensure connectivity.
On Exam Day:
- Log In Early: Access your Pearson VUE account 30 minutes before your exam to start the check-in process.
- Identification Requirements: Present one valid government-issued ID with a photo and signature. Ensure the name on your registration matches the ID exactly.
Interactive Elements:
Policies and Procedures
Rescheduling and Cancellation
- Rescheduling: Changes can be made up to the appointment time at no cost through your Pearson VUE account or by phone.
- Cancellation: Canceling within 24 hours results in forfeiture of the exam fee. For more details, visit the SDFM Certification page.
No-Shows and Emergencies
- No-Shows: Failure to appear forfeits the exam fee. Documented extenuating circumstances may be considered for a refund.
- Emergency Contact: If an emergency occurs, contact the SDFM Certification Department immediately.
Testing at Pearson VUE Centers
Admission Policies:
- Arrive Early: Arrive 30 minutes before your appointment for check-in.
- Identification: Show a primary and secondary ID, and ensure they match the name on your exam registration.
Interactive Elements:
Accommodations and Misconduct
ADA Accommodations
SDFM adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to certification exams. Requests for accommodations must be submitted at least 5 weeks prior to the exam date.
Misconduct Policies
SDFM maintains strict policies against misconduct during exams, including seeking unfair advantages and unauthorized assistance. Misconduct may result in cancellation of scores, revocation of certification, or disqualification from future exams.
Interactive Elements:
Conclusion
The CDFM certification is a valuable credential for financial management professionals in defense sectors. By adhering to the outlined procedures and policies, candidates can ensure a smooth certification process. For further assistance and resources, refer to the SDFM official website and stay updated with the latest guidelines.
