What is CGFM?

Certified Government Financial Manager® (CGFM®) is a professional certification awarded by AGA, demonstrating competency in governmental accounting, auditing, financial reporting, internal controls and budgeting at the federal, state and local levels.

Benefits of CGFM

CGFM next to your name says a lot about your skills and expertise before you walk into the room.

 Marketability

Expand your opportunities across different levels of government nationwide.

Competitive Edge

Set yourself apart from your colleagues with specialized skills.

Credibility

Increase public confidence in your abilities.

Professional Confidence

Demonstrate your high level of competency by passing three rigorous exams.

Knowledge

Gain a broad view of the most important government financial management topics.

Career Growth

Show your employer how committed you are to your professional development.

The Program Requirements

To earn your CGFM, you must abide by AGA’s Code of Ethics, fill out an online application.

Education Requirement

Experience Requirement

Examination Requirement

The Certification Process

Ready to start on your path to CGFM? See the step-by-step process of earning this certification.

Getting Ready and Taking Your CGFM Exam

Before you decide on the best way to prepare and schedule your testing appointment, be sure to review the three CGFM exam content outlines that list the main topics covered by each of the three CGFM exams.

CGFM Exam Content Outlines

Exam Preparation

Taking the Exams

CGFM Frequently Asked Questions


Why should I become a CGFM?

Apply for CGFM if you want to:

  • Be a leader in your field.
  • Have expanded employment opportunities across federal, state and local governments.
  • Have advanced knowledge of governmental accounting, auditing, internal controls, performance measurement, financial reporting, and budgeting.
  • Have increased professional confidence.
What is the best way to prepare for CGFM exams?

That depends on your knowledge level, experience, time constraints, individual preferences, and location. All candidates, however, are encouraged to start by reviewing the exam content outlines in the CGFM Exams section on our website. Then, consider each of the study options in the Exam Preparation section.

How many exams do I have to pass and how do I get started?

You must pass three exams—Governmental Environment; Governmental Accounting, Financial Reporting and Budgeting; and Governmental Financial Management and Control. Go to the Certification Process page for more information on application requirements and applying online.

What are the requirements for maintaining my CGFM?

 To retain the designation, a CGFM holder must:

  1. Pay the applicable CGFM renewal fee by the due date every year.
  2. Adhere to the AGA Code of Ethics.
  3. Complete at least 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) every two years in government financial management topics or related technical subjects (within the designated two-year cycle), including 4 hours in ethics. See CPE Requirements and Calendar of CPE cycles for more information.

Maintain and, if requested by AGA, provide detailed information on CPE hours completed. See Maintaining Certification for more information. 

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