How to prepare for your CeMAP exam
How is CeMAP tested?
To prepare for your CeMAP exam, it is important to know how it will be tested. Each module of the CeMAP is assessed by a two-hour electronic multiple-choice exam. Exams can be taken at one of over 150 Pearson VUE test centres across the UK at a date and time of your choice. You will have 12 months to complete each module and sit the exam from when you first register, and the first exam will be included in each module registration fee.
Exam Preparation and Technique
Examinations can be booked as little as two working days in advance, however the LIBF recommends that you book your exams at least two months before the date you hope to sit. Booking your exam within a decent amount of time can be highly beneficial as it ensures you secure the date you desire. It can also support you in your revision as it will give you a clear timeframe within which to work. You can book your exam either over the phone or using the Pearson VUE website. Visit this LIBF article for guidance on booking your exam and other helpful information.
Consider your exam technique. When taking a multiple-choice exam, it is best to work methodically. Make sure you understand exactly what the question is asking you, as well as reading through all of the potential answers before you choose your response to prepare for your CeMAP exam. It is important to remember that the questions are based on cautious lending policies and assume that you advise on products that use standard income multipliers.
How can you prepare for your CeMAP exam?
- Make a Study Plan – Knowing when and how often you plan to revise can help you stay consistent with your studies. Work backwards from the date of your exam booking and plan how many hours per week you intend to revise. This will help you to ensure you are meeting the suggested study quota. Consider the time of day you plan to revise and be realistic about how long each study session will last.
- Utilise Study Tools – Make use of all the study tools available to you. Learning with the LIBF will give you access to their VLE Brightspace which includes a study planner, syllabus updates and the LIBF tax table. It also has student-led discussion forums and study tip videos for you to use to support your revision.
There is also a wealth of free resources you could take advantage of. Take a look at this study guide from CeMAP provider Effectus Learning. This is a great document that will help set you up for success in your studying efforts by offering tips and detailed explanations on what to expect from the exam. It also gives you an example of a good study plan and a template to help you create your own.
- CRT – The CeMAP Revision Tool is an online exam practice tool which includes specimen CeMAP exams to help you practice your exam technique. The CRT also contains additional test questions for you to test your knowledge. If you get an answer wrong, the feedback given will link back to the right place in the study materials so you can remind yourself of the correct knowledge. The CeMAP revision tool can be purchased from the LIBF for an additional fee.
- LIBF Tax Table – Instead of trying to memorise all of the tax rates in England, Scotland, and Wales, make use of the provided LIBF tax table. You will only need to understand the tiering of the rates.
- Study Techniques – Make sure you have a strong revision technique. Find somewhere quiet and free from distractions. It can be helpful to revise at the same time each day as it can ensure you are properly focused. Break each topic down into small sections and revise one at a time, making notes on each. Aim to address the topics you least understand first – don’t leave the worst for last!
Ensure you are very familiar with the syllabus and the learning objectives for each topic as the exam questions will focus on them. Have a read through the LIBF Qualification Specification if you are unsure. Use the end of topic questions to test your knowledge and to identify any gaps that need to be addressed.
Health and Wellbeing
Looking after your health and wellbeing is key to successful revision. Taking good care of your body will also take care of your mind. Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet, moderate your caffeine intake, and aim to get between 7 and 9 hours sleep each night to keep your energy levels up. Consider engaging in some physical activity such going to the gym or even taking regular walks during breaks in your revising.
Conclusion
You will succeed in your CeMAP exams provided you are well prepared! Plan your revision carefully and make sure you are giving yourself adequate time to develop your understanding. Utilise all resources available to you and even consider purchasing additional support if you feel you need it.
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