Functionally graded materials (FGMs) are designed to achieve a functional performance with gradually variable properties in one or more directions. In this research study, a functionally graded cantilever beam was subjected to bending moment at the free end, and then investigated. The beam properties were reviewed and varied symmetrically throughout the thickness in terms of volume fraction of material constituents. The variation in stress and deflection for different functional gradients was analyzed by using the finite element analysis package - ANSYS 10.0. The objective of this work is to investigate, how different grading configurations of beam will affect its bending stress and deflection due to applied bending moment and the effectiveness of FGMs beams in structural applications. The results show that the use of FGMs are capable of and advantageous in reducing the deflection and strain that may arise in structural beams.