Prepare with Confidence for the CGFM Certification

AGA’s Certified Government Financial Manager® (CGFM®) study guides are designed to help candidates succeed on the CGFM exams. The 2024 edition is the latest and most up-to-date version, available in two convenient formats: print and online access.

Study Guide Formats

Print Version

Printed CGFM study guides are available through the AGA CGFM Bookstore, fulfilled by Mimeo. Each guide comes in a binder format.
Note: Print products are nonrefundable.

Online Version

Online access is provided through the VitalSource bookstore, which offers a six-month subscription. Study guides can also be accessed online or offline via the Bookshelf app.
Choose your study guide below to get started:

Study Guide 1 – Governmental Environment (2024 Edition)

Covers the structure and function of government, legal foundations, and public-sector responsibilities.

Study Guide 2 – Governmental Accounting, Financial Reporting and Budgeting (2024 Edition)

Focuses on accounting principles, financial reporting requirements, and budgetary systems in government.

Study Guide 3 – Governmental Financial Management and Control (2024 Edition)

Explores internal controls, financial systems, auditing, and performance measurement in government operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s new in the 2024 edition?

Study Guide 1 includes updates reflecting changes in the exam content outline. Revisions include:

• New content on key laws and regulations: Evidence Act, FOIA, Inspector General Act, FISMA, Uniform Guidance updates, Executive Order 14110
• Expanded sections on monetary and fiscal policy, cooperative agreements and loans, accountability, communication tools, and AI

Study Guide 2 includes minor changes:

• Regulatory updates: new SFFAS, GASB Statements and Concepts Statement, and OMB Circular A-136
• Additions related to the Evidence Act, Fiscal Responsibility Act, and Payment Integrity Information Act
• Clarified language and updated references to current ACFRs and AFRs

Study Guide 3 received significant updates:

• A fully revised and expanded chapter on financial management systems
• A new chapter on project management
• Updated internal controls content, including System and Organization Controls
• Refreshed auditing section with updated language and regulations tied to the Uniform Guidance

Can I buy only the updated pages of the printed guides?

No. Because updates may revise or reorganize large sections, AGA does not offer replacement pages for previous versions.

When should I purchase a study guide?

AGA recommends purchasing the current edition within six months of your planned exam date to ensure content alignment.

Are the study guides required to take the CGFM exams?

No. CGFM study guides and courses are optional. Exams are based on publicly available content outlines and do not require the use of these materials.

Do the study guides contain all CGFM exam questions?

No. To maintain fairness and integrity, AGA separates the education and certification functions. Guide authors do not have access to actual exam questions. Study guides are designed to review exam topics, not provide specific answers.

Are the study guides sufficient for exam preparation?

Many candidates find the study guides adequate. However, additional review may be needed depending on individual experience.

• Each guide includes reference lists
• AGA offers recommended study references used to develop exam questions
• Reinforcement quizzes and course reviews support self-assessment
• AGA also offers optional practice exams