1. Introduction to the CGFM Program

2. The CGFM Program What is CGFM? Initial certification requirements
Certification process
Preparing for examinations
Maintaining certification

3. What Is CGFM ?
Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a professional certification awarded by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA)

4. AGA—The Thought Leader in Government Financial Management
AGA is the member organization for financial professionals in government. We lead and encourage change that benefits our field and all citizens. Our networking events, professional certification, publications and ongoing education help members build their skills and advance their careers.

5. What Makes the CGFM Unique?
Specialized focus on government financial management
Broad coverage of various aspects of financial management at all levels of government—federal, state and local

6. CGFM Benefits Increased knowledge of government financial management
Greater confidence on the job
Better understanding of “big picture” of government
Portable and tangible indicator of experience and knowledge
Enhanced marketability throughout government levels
Encourages employer incentives and continuing education
Enhanced credibility, public confidence and employee value

7. CGFM: Initial Requirements
Ethics – read and agree to abide by AGA’s Code of Ethics
Education – have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
Examinations – pass three comprehensive CGFM Examinations
Experience – have at least two years of professional-level experience in U.S. government financial management
More information –

8. The Certification Process
Step 1—Read AGA's Code of Ethics
Step 2—Apply for the CGFM Program
Step 3—Submit Required Degree Documentation
Step 4—Receive an Eligibility Letter
Step 5—Submit a Work Verification Form
Step 6—Prepare for the CGFM Examinations
Step 7—Schedule the CGFM Examinations
Step 8—Take and Pass the CGFM Examinations
Step 9—Receive CGFM Award Letter
Step 10—Receive and Display Your CGFM Certificate
More information –

9. CGFM: Costs Earning the certification Application fee – $85
Examination fees – $109 per exam
Maintaining the certification
Annual renewal fee – $30 for AGA members or $65 for nonmembers
Questions? AGA’s Office of Professional Certification at

10. CGFM Examinations Exam 1: Governmental Environment
Exam 2: Governmental Accounting, Financial Reporting and Budgeting
Exam 3: Governmental Financial Management and Control

11. Examination 1: Governmental Environment
Organization, Structure and Authority of Government
Legally-Based Implications of the Government Financial Environment
Demonstrate an Understanding of the Government Management System (Cycle)
Governmental Financing Process
Identify the Concepts, Definitions and Notions of Public Accountability
Demonstrate an Understanding of Ethics as Applied to the Government Environment
Demonstrate an Understanding of Electronic Services in Government

12. Examination 2: Governmental Accounting, Financial Reporting and Budgeting
Governmental Financial Accounting, Reporting and Budgeting: General Knowledge
Demonstrate an Understanding of State and Local Financial Accounting and Reporting
Demonstrate an Understanding of Federal Financial Accounting and Reporting

13. Examination 3: Governmental Financial Management and Control
Financial Management Functions
Demonstrate an Understanding of Financial and Managerial Analysis Techniques
Internal Control
Demonstrate an Understanding of Performance Measurement/Metrics/Service Efforts and Accomplishments (SEA)
Auditing

14. Preparing for Examinations
Start with exam content outlines
Preparation options
AGA’s CGFM Training Program for groups
Open-enrollment courses through Management Concepts
Self-study through AGA’s CGFM study guides (printed and online)
Visit the AGA website for chapter-sponsored training, sample exam questions, study resources

15. CGFM: Requirements to Maintain
Ethics – continue to abide by AGA’s Code of Ethics
Renewal – renew the designation annually
Continuing education – complete 80 hours of applicable continuing professional education (CPE) every two years
For More Information –

16. Enhance Your Marketability
CGFM is the mark of excellence in government financial management
CGFM is transferrable across agencies and government levels
Apply today at

17. For More Information
To obtain more information, contact Kimberly Jones CGFM Program Manager or Katya Silver Director of Professional Certification