When Can I Take the CMQ/OE Exam?

A Complete Guide to Deadlines, Exam Windows, Scheduling, Formats & More

One of the most frequently asked questions I receive from professionals preparing for the Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) exam is:

“When exactly can I take the exam? How do I schedule it? Can I take it from home, or do I need to go to a test center?”

If you’ve been asking the same, this article is for you.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know:

• • CMQ/OE exam schedule
  • Application deadlines
  • Exam formats (CBT & PBT)
  • Remote vs. in-person testing
  • Rescheduling and cancellation policies

The CMQ/OE Exam Is Not Offered Every Month

Unlike certifications such as PMP, CCP, or others that offer year-round testing, the CMQ/OE exam is only available during odd-numbered months.

Exam Offered In: January, March, May, July, September, November
Not Offered In: February, April, June, August, October, December

This means you need to plan ahead — you can’t just apply and expect to test next week.

Deadlines to Apply

You must submit your exam application before the deadline associated with your chosen window. Missing that deadline means you can’t test that month,  your eligibility will start with the next available window.

Here’s an example of the upcoming schedule:

For the most up-to-date deadlines, always check: ASQ Certification Dates

After You Apply: What to Expect

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an email from ASQ titled: “ASQ Certification Exam Scheduling Information”

Within 1–2 business days, this email will provide:

1) Your Eligibility ID
2) The first 4 characters of your last name
3) Three hyperlinked options:

• • • • Schedule at a Prometric Test Center
      • Schedule a Live Remote Proctored Exam
        
      • Learn more about your exam details

You’ll also get a 3-month eligibility window, starting from the month you selected.

 Example: Application Submitted in Aug 10, 2025

If you apply for the September exam, your eligibility covers:
✅ September
✅ November
✅ January

You can choose any available date within those three months. But the earlier you schedule, the more date/time options you’ll have.

Read: How to schedule your CMQ Exam?

Exam Formats: CBT vs. PBT

There are two types of exam formats available:

1. Computer-Based Testing (CBT)

• • You’ll take the exam either at home (remote proctored) or at a Prometric Test Center
  • Most candidates choose this method
  • You’ll receive the eligibility email with your ID and scheduling links

2. Paper-Based Testing (PBT)

• • Reserved for translated exams or group testing events
  • You will receive a seating letter, not an eligibility email

Your seat, date, and location will be assigned and sent to you 2 weeks before the exam.

Note: No 3FOLD students so far have applied for this method.

Where Can You Take the Exam? 

 Option 1: Live Remote Proctored (From Home)

• • Take the exam on your personal computer from a quiet, private space
  • Available only in eligible countries – not permitted in China, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar (need to choose a test center).
  • Your eligibility email and ASQ account will confirm if you can choose this
  • To schedule a Live Remotely Proctored appointment, click here

Note: Remote proctored exams carry a higher risk of being flagged for audit due to the strict monitoring and environment requirements. Ensure you follow all guidelines carefully.

Read: Remote Proctored ASQ CMQ/OE Exam | ASQ – CMQ/OE Exam Technical Issues

Option 2: Prometric Test Center

• • Find your nearest center: Prometric Locations
  • Schedule your exam here: Prometric Booking

Tip: Don’t delay booking — the longer you wait, the fewer time slots will be available.

Read: ASQ CMQ/OE Exam at Prometric Centre

Rescheduling and Cancellation Policies

Rescheduling Your Exam

• • You can reschedule your exam for free if you do so no later than 5 full days before your scheduled appointment.
  • If you try to reschedule within 5 days of your exam (i.e., 4 days or fewer before the exam date), a $130 rescheduling fee will apply.
  • If you miss your exam entirely without rescheduling, you will forfeit your exam fee and must reapply and repay in full to test again.

Cancelling & Requesting a Refund

• • If you decide not to take the exam, email cert@asq.org
  • Requests must be received before your eligibility window ends
  • If your window expires or you’ve taken the exam, no refund will be granted

If approved, you’ll need to reapply and repay to take the exam later.

Final Tips for Smart Scheduling

• • Apply as early as possible — don’t wait for the last week
  • Schedule your exam once you receive your eligibility ID
  • Only book your exam when you’re confident you’re prepared (and financially ready — application includes payment)
  • Choose a date early in your window to leave room for flexibility
  • Always read your eligibility email carefully for important instructions

Don’t assume remote proctoring is always available — check your email or ASQ account to confirm

At 3FOLD Training, We’ve Got Your Back

From application to certification, 3FOLD Training is with you every step of the way. We are:

✔️ Transparent
✔️ Trusted
✔️ Reliable

We don’t just teach the content — we guide you through the entire process of applying, scheduling, preparing, and passing the CMQ/OE exam.

Got questions? We’re here to support you.

Read more: Explore CMQ/OE Articles on 3FOLD