What to Expect on Exam Day: CeMAP Insights and Advice
Taking your Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP) exams is a big step towards becoming a mortgage advisor. For those wondering what to expect on CeMAP exam day, we’re here to guide you through. Don’t forget, if you’re aiming to become a mortgage adviser, you can grab the 🎉FREE Mortgage Marketing Blueprint at ashborland.com/blueprint. exams is a big step towards becoming a mortgage advisor. It’s a journey that takes a lot of effort, and one question pops up a lot: what’s exam day actually like? For a real-life account, check out this video: What is The CeMAP Exam Like On The Day (Real Mortgage Adviser Story).
In this blog, we’ll chat about what you can expect, how to keep those nerves in check, and practical tips to help you smash it. Using Erin’s real-life experience of going through the exams, plus a bit of industry know-how, here’s the lowdown on acing your CeMAP exams. And if you’d like tailored support, explore 📈Work With Me at ashborland.com.
1. What Can You Expect on CeMAP Exam Day?
For many, what to expect on CeMAP exam day is a mix of excitement and nerves. Erin described her experience as “really tough,” and it’s clear that it’s an emotional rollercoaster when you’re sitting three separate exams.
Common Challenges:
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Feeling Nervous: It’s easy to feel like your brain’s gone blank. Erin said she felt like she’d forgotten everything she’d learned.
Managing Time: With so much to get through, keeping an eye on the clock is key.
The Exam Environment: Test centres often host all kinds of exams. Erin found herself surrounded by people doing totally unrelated tests, which added to the surreal vibe.
2. How Can You Prepare for CeMAP Exams?
Preparation is everything. The more you’ve sorted in advance, the less stressed you’ll be on the day. Need additional insights on mortgage networks? Check out Connect for Intermediaries to find a network that suits your career goals. Here’s how to keep it simple:
Plan Your Journey
Choose a test centre that’s easy to get to, even if it’s not the closest one. Erin picked one with better parking instead of her local city centre, and it made a big difference.
Leave extra time for traffic or delays. Aim to arrive at least 20 minutes early.
Bring the Essentials
Don’t forget your ID—passport or driving licence will do the trick.
Double-check the test requirements so you don’t get caught out on the day.
3. What Is the CeMAP Test Centre Experience Like?
Checking In
When you arrive, the staff will:
Check your ID.
Take a photo of you for their records.
Go through the rules and give you any materials you’ll need, like a whiteboard for notes.
Settling In
Once you’re in the exam room:
Take a moment to get comfortable and calm yourself.
Use the practice questions to get used to the format—they’re not part of the exam but are great for easing in.
The Atmosphere
The exam room is silent, which can feel a bit intense. While you’re here, why not follow me on 🚨Instagram (@ashborland), LinkedIn (Ash Borland), or Facebook (Ash Borland) for daily mortgage tips? Erin found the quiet quite unsettling, but it’s also an opportunity to focus.
4. How Can You Stay Calm and Focused During Your CeMAP Exam?
Nerves are normal, but they don’t have to take over. Here’s how Erin kept her cool: 🗣️ Want more advice? Listen to the Mortgage Business Mastery Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube.
1. Breathe and Relax
Take a few deep breaths before you start. It’s amazing how much it can help.
2. Remember Your Prep
You’ve worked hard for this. Trust that you know more than you think.
3. Use the Practice Questions
These warm-up questions are a good way to ease into the exam mindset.
5. What Should You Do If You Don’t Pass Your CeMAP Exam?
What happens if you fail the CeMAP exam? Failing isn’t the end of the world. Erin and many others didn’t pass first time, and that’s okay.
Picking Yourself Up
Erin admitted she questioned whether she was cut out for the job after failing her first attempts. But her determination to work in a regulated role kept her going.
Focus on why you want to do this. Keep your goals in sight.
Get Support
Find mentors or learning resources that work for you. Erin found Charlotte from Future in Finance brilliant for breaking down tricky topics.
Join study groups or forums for moral support and advice.
6. What Is the Step-by-Step Guide to the CeMAP Exam Process?
a) Arriving at the Centre
Arrive early and follow the check-in steps.
Stow your personal belongings as instructed.
b) Taking the Exam
Use your whiteboard for notes.
Tackle each question carefully but don’t linger too long—you can always come back to tricky ones.
c) Finishing Up
Make sure you submit your answers properly.
Raise your hand to signal you’re done, and wait to be shown out.
d) Results
For CeMAP 1 and 2, results are emailed within about an hour. For CeMAP 3, you’ll get a paper slip with your results on the day. Be prepared for a bit of a nerve-wracking wait!
7. What Are Practical Tips for Passing CeMAP Exams?
Use the Right Resources
Don’t rely solely on the big textbook. Erin found e-learning tools much more manageable.
Focus on the Essentials
Prioritise the key topics that are likely to come up. Not everything in the book will be relevant.
Practise, Practise, Practise
Simulate exam conditions during your revision to build confidence.
8. What Is the CeMAP Exam Checklist and Final Advice?
Taking your CeMAP exams is a big step, and it’s natural to feel a mix of nerves and excitement. For tools and services I recommend, check out my full list here: ⬇️ ashborland.com/resources. But with preparation, the right mindset, and a bit of perseverance, you can absolutely do it.
If things don’t go to plan at first, don’t give up. Keep your eyes on the prize, lean on your support network, and trust in the hard work you’ve put in. Good luck!
