Empowering Applicants for Certification Success
Exam Readiness Course Options
The following optional AEM/CEM Readiness Courses help certification applicants gauge their readiness for the AEM/CEM exam by exploring the Exam Blueprint and Exam Resource List. Emphasis is placed on connecting concepts across exam domains, understanding the relationship between the Blueprint and Resource List, and identifying areas for focused study. Participants will also gain insight into what to expect on exam day and engage with exam-style exercises through a practical, concept-based approach.
The courses are aligned with the 2026 Resource List.
Option 1: Classroom Administered Course
The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) offers a comprehensive AEM/CEM Readiness Course designed to assist applicants in preparing for the Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) and Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) certification exams.
The course aims to alleviate exam anxiety by providing insights into exam mechanics and facilitating discussions on emergency management principles found in the Exam Resource List. It is not designed to teach emergency management concepts from scratch. This course will not teach you everything you need to know about emergency management, nor will it guarantee that you will pass the exam or submit a successful application. Applicants are encouraged to take the course at least six weeks prior to scheduling to sit for the exam.
Intended Audience: Professional emergency managers seeking the AEM or CEM designation.
Cost: $535 per person.
For more information, visit the Exam Dates and Locations page.
Option 2: Virtual Online "LIVE" Course
Coming in 2026, the IAEM Certification Program will offer virtual online training. The virtual training is the same course taught in-person, but allows applicants to experience the course from the comfort of their working environment. The registration fee is $295. Once available, dates for the virtual training will be posted here.
Option 3: Online Self-Paced Course
In partnership with MindEdge Learning, IAEM offers a self-paced online preparatory course tailored for USA applicants.
Course Description
This course is meant for emergency management professionals seeking the AEM or CEM certification. Primarily, the course reviews key terms and concepts that may appear on the AEM/CEM exam. Learners can check their understanding throughout the course with interactive games, review checkpoints, and exams. Certified Emergency Managers provide expert commentary, using their knowledge and experience to guide learners through the course. Plus, learners can gauge their exam readiness with two full-length practice exams. This course will not teach you everything you need to know about emergency management, nor will it guarantee that you will pass the exam or submit a successful application.
Credits: 3 IACET CEUs / 30 ATD CI Credits
Access: The course is available for purchase through the MindEdge Website.
Cost: $399 (IAEM members receive a 25% discount using a special discount code. Email certificationinfo@iaem.com for the code.)
Need Assistance?
Contact IAEM at certificationinfo@iaem.com for support throughout your certification journey.