The updated Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) exam has been launched (13 August) and welcomed by the Events Industry Council (EIC) which said the new exam aligned with the 2025 CMP International Standards (CMP-IS), designed “to provide a future-focused framework that reflects the evolving landscape of the global business events industry”. The CMP designation is held by more than 13,000 meeting professionals across 55+ countries and validates expertise in strategic planning, operations, risk management, stakeholder engagement and new domains covering sustainability, technology integration, and outcome evaluation.
“As our sector continues to evolve, adapt and innovate, the CMP programme is evolving to ensure its relevance now and into the future,” said president and CEO of the EIC Amy Calvert. “The updated exam reflects the expertise and resilience our industry demands – and the leadership qualities that define today’s top professionals.”
Dr Senthil Gopinath, EIC Board chair and CEO of ICCA, further emphasised the milestone. “The updated exam reenforces our commitment to supporting our sector’s workforce and the highest level of professional standards,” he said. “We are deeply appreciative of everyone who contributed to this project.”
The launch of the new exam is the result of a multi-year, practitioner-led process that engaged more than 1,000 volunteer subject matter experts from across the globe. Through job task analyses, competency mapping, and content review, this community helped shape the revised CMP International Standards and ensure the credential remains globally relevant and future-focused.
“This update to the CMP International Standards reflects how far our industry has come and where we’re headed,” said Heather Seasholtz, CMP fellow, chair of the CMP Governance Commission.
What’s new? The revised CMP-IS includes key updates, including: A new domain for Sustainability and Social Impact, reinforcing the sector’s role in advancing environmental and societal outcomes. This includes carbon footprint management, materials management, and supporting advancements in inclusive design and wellbeing, ensuring events contribute positively to both the planet and diverse, thriving communities.
Expanded content on Technology Integration, addressing innovations in virtual and hybrid delivery, data analytics, digital engagement and AI, allowing for evolving knowledge and practice. A sharper focus on Evaluation and ROI, helping professionals quantify impact and communicate value to stakeholders.
A renewed emphasis on Risk Assessment, enabling more strategic, inclusive, and resilient event design strategies that anticipate challenges and foster adaptability. Greater global relevance and alignment with contemporary accepted practices, ensuring applicability across diverse regions and evolving industry approaches.
The updated exam was beta-tested in April and May 2025, with participation from a diverse mix of candidates, and followed by a two-month scoring blackout for statistical validation. Tthe updated version is now live and open to all eligible candidates. Those whose testing windows were affected by the blackout have received automatic extensions through 1 November 2025.
The new exam retains its multiple-choice format, and candidates can expect scenario-based questions designed to assess applied knowledge and strategic decision-making. Updated study resources, including a new edition of the EIC Manual, will be released in late 2025/early 2026.
“The CMP is more than a certification; it represents a commitment to doing the work well and doing it right,” said Seasholtz. “This update ensures the credential keeps pace with our industry and continues to reflect the skills and leadership we need to move forward.”
To learn more about the CMP programme or to schedule your exam, visit: https://www.eventscouncil.org/CMP
