You can not sit for the exam unless you have completed an accredited school. That's what sets CMA'S and MA's apart. I have one more semester and clinicals and then I'll sit for the CMA exam The NHA (The National Healthcareer Association) has a certification exam program that allows you to learn from an employer and self educate in order to revive certification through exam. I'm looking to get into a CMA program but in my research I'm finding programs that range from $1,000 for 6 months to $14,000 for 1 year. What do I need? I work as a CNA in a hospital, 12 hour shifts and am looking to get a M-F 8 hour job. Can you help me? No. You have to graduate from an accrieted program. When I took my certification I had to provide a copy of my diploma. You also have to maintain CME credits of 80 per year. You get the credits by entering your certification number to the AAMA.