Hello. I'm guessing you've probably given up on this thread, but for anybody who wants to know the answers to the above, I've taken & passed CeMAP so I can tell you a fair bit about it..
-In regards to the maths involved, it's very little. I myself took A-Level maths & got an A. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Anyway, back to the topic of CeMAP. The maths in mortgages are simply finding percentages & other basic numerical functions (adding, dividing etc). Nothing too intense, so don't let this be a drawback.
-The study materials are available from IFS (Institute of financial services). They will set you back a good £120-£150 for each module. There are 3 modules in CeMAP. This charge includes 1 sitting of the exam, any additional sittings will cost you a further £120-£150. There are no shortcuts, no cheap entrances, this is the only way to get genuine CeMAP study materials. Specimen papers are a further £20 each.
-It's a very demanding qualification (equivalent to an A-Level). You have to put your everything into learning the subject. It's not something you improve on from school, it's a completely new subject to everyone. The laws & regs are the most difficult part (CeMAP 1). As for CeMAP2 & CeMAP3.. again, it will be very difficult unless you have a very good background knowledge of the mortgage industry. I myself started an apprenticeship at a mortgage broking firm, so CeMAP 2 & CeMAP 3 were a lot easier for me because I was working in a mortgage environment everyday.
-I completed the course in 6 months. As I mentioned earlier, it is equivalent to an A-Level, so 18 months - 2 years is a reasonable target. You could even do it parralel to A-Levels.
Unfortunately, I'm going to be perfectly blunt with you, this qualification doesn't guarentee you employment. Based on your A-Level results, you will find it very difficult to find a job in this industry. I would strongly advise re-sitting your A-Levels before applying for a job as this would increase your chances significantly if you can get AT LEAST 3 B's.
Hope this helps.