MongoDB has secured certification from Australia’s Information Security Registered Assessor Program (IRAP) that will enable federal government agencies to use its Atlas multicloud database service for workloads that deal with classified information.
The certification provides the assurance that Atlas has the appropriate security controls in place to process, store and transmit information classified up to, and including, the protected level.
Most Australian government agencies currently use MongoDB on-premise. MongoDB said the IRAP certification will now enable them to use Atlas’s multi-cloud infrastructure and take advantage of embedded encryption, text-based and generative AI based search, and stream processing for high-volume, high-velocity data to build modern applications with less complexity.
“Government agencies are expected to offer citizens flawless and secure digital services, as well as easier ways to engage with government entities,” said Simon Eid, senior vice-president of Asia-Pacific at MongoDB.
“Internally, teams are pressured to make data-driven decisions that are accurate and timely, while improving efficiency without jeopardising security. Legacy database models have become a real hindrance and government agencies are looking at new ways to build and deliver the government services of tomorrow.
“Now, with the completion of the IRAP assessment, government agencies in Australia can empower their development teams to build new classes of applications that reimagine citizen experiences using MongoDB Atlas. We think this will actively contribute to Australia’s reaching its goal of being the most cyber-secure nation in the world by 2030,” he added.
With MongoDB Atlas, organisations can store and synchronise data on multiple public clouds at the same time rather than on a single provider to ensure high levels of resilience for government services. Its multi-region capability also allows organisations to use multiple cloud regions within the same geography, making applications more resilient while meeting data sovereignty requirements.
The company recently introduced Queryable Encryption, an encryption scheme that lets organisations search for and return encrypted data that is visible to application users only when it is decrypted with customer-controlled cryptographic keys. The data remains encrypted in-use throughout the query process, in-transit over networks, and at-rest in storage.
MongoDB has been driving skills development and investing in local manpower in a bid to expand its Australia and New Zealand business, which has been growing at around 20%. It has more than 1,200 local customers, including Bendigo & Adelaide Bank, Ticketek and Humanitix.
Today’s organizations are looking for better ways to pull the information they need from massive volumes of data available to them. Big data system administrators store, manage and transfer large sets of data, making them amenable to analysis. Data analytics is the practice of examining the raw data to identify patterns and draw conclusions. Business intelligence involves the collection and organization of information to report on business activities, often pulling data from those very sets.
Along with the surge in big data interest comes a growing number of certifications to recognize the necessary skills in working with enormous data sets. The target audience is IT professionals with a background in analytics, data mining, business intelligence or data management, along with a knack for and interest in mathematics and statistics. Big data engineers are in reasonably high demand and usually command salaries of $101,000 or more, where data scientists average about $128,500 in salary.
We took a detailed look at certifications from INFORMS, Microsoft, MongoDB, Oracle and SAS. Check out the results from our informal search of various job boards to see which certifications employers really want. However, these results are a snapshot from a specific day, time and geography, so they may not reflect actual job demands in your locality when you search for yourself.
Job board search results (in alphabetical order, by certification)
| Certification | SimplyHired | Indeed | LinkUp | >Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAP* (INFORMS) | 27 | 39 | >94 | 69 | 229 |
| >MCSE: Data Management and Analytics (Microsoft) | 377 | >271 | 31 | 320 | >999 |
| >MongoDB Certified DBA | 12 | 13 | 8 | 5 | 38 |
| >MongoDB Certified Developer | 104 | 124 | 49 | 31 | 308 |
| Oracle Business Intelligence | 323 | >503 | 713 | 194 | 1,733 |
| SAS Certified Data Scientist | 88 | 11 | 10 | 18 | 228 |
*Certified Analytics Professional
CAP: Certified Analytics Professional
INFORMS is a membership-based association aimed at practitioners, researchers and instructors in analytics, as well as operations research and management sciences. The association reports about 12,500 members from nearly 90 countries, most of whom participate in various educational and networking opportunities via their INFORMS membership.
The organization also sponsors the vendor-neutral Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) certification. CAP focuses on seven domains of the analytics process:
- Business problem framing
- Analytics problem framing
- Data
- Methodology selection
- Model building
- Deployment
- Model lifecycle management
Candidates must meet rigorous education and experience requirements, obtain confirmation from a supervisor (current or former) of acceptable soft skills, agree to a code of ethics, and pass one computer-based exam.
This credential must be renewed every three years by earning 30 professional development units (PDUs). INFORMS also requires a $100 annual maintenance fee beginning in the fourth year after certification.
CAP facts and figures
| >Certification name | Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites and required courses | Eligibility to sit for exam:
|
| >Number of exams | 1 test (100 multiple-choice questions, 3 hours) |
| Cost per exam | Exam: $495 member, $695 nonmember
Re-examination fee: $300 member, $400 nonmember Exams administered by Kryterion. Candidates must be approved by INFORMS and pay for the test before registering with an test site. |
| >URL | https://www.certifiedanalytics.org/ |
| Self-study materials | The Certified Analytics Professional Candidate Handbook includes test subjects (the 7 domains), trial test questions and a list of self-study resources. A study guide is available on the CAP website (membership or registration required). |
MCSE: Data Management and Analytics
Microsoft is part of the big data mix with its MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification, which leans heavily toward SQL Server 2016 and emphasizes cloud environments and reporting. This credential replaces the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Business Intelligence, which retired on March 31, 2017.
The MCSE: Data Management and Analytics requires candidates to earn an MCSA certification and then pass an elective exam. The MCSA certifications to choose from are MCSA: SQL Server 2012/2014; MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration; MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Development; MCSA: SQL 2016 BI Development; MCSA: Machine Learning; MCSA: BI Reporting; and MCSA: Data Engineering with Azure. There are 12 MCSE elective exams, which focus on a variety of cloud, big data analytics and BI topics, with machine learning now added to the MCSA certifications.
To maintain this certification, you must pass an additional elective test each year. Doing so adds an entry to your transcript that indicates your commitment to staying current on technologies and expanding your skill set.
MCSE: Data Management and Analytics facts and figures
Number of exams
| Certification name | MCSE: Data Management and Analytics |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites and required courses | Prerequisites (1 required):
Training courses available and recommended for all certifications but not required. |
One of the following:
|
|
| Cost per exam | $165, administered by Pearson VUE. |
| URL | https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/mcse-data-management-analytics.aspx |
| Self-mtudy Materials | Each test page has links to instructor-led training, test prep videos, self-paced training, practice tests and books. |
*Exam to be retired on June 30, 2019. Replacement test not yet released but should be available prior to that date.
MongoDB NoSQL certifications
MongoDB is both an open-source, NoSQL document-oriented database and the name of the company providing that technology. Because of its document-oriented NoSQL model, MongoDB is well suited for managing large amounts of loosely structured data, as is so often the case in big data projects.
MongoDB was deemed a leader in Forrester Wave: Big Data NoSQL, Q3 2016, and Gartner selected MongoDB as a challenger in its 2016 Magic Quadrant for Operational Database Management Systems. The database ranks fifth in overall database engine popularity as of March 2019.
The MongoDB NoSQL certification program recognizes developers and operations professionals who can create and run applications on MongoDB. The program offers two associate-level credentials: MongoDB Certified DBA and MongoDB Certified Developer. The company plans to eventually roll out higher-level certifications. The current exams are based on MongoDB V4.0.
MongoDB offers private, instructor-led classroom training as well as free online video training through MongoDB University. Each online course typically runs for 3-7 weeks and features video lectures, quizzes, weekly assignments, and a final test or project. Students may use the forums to interact and address each other’s questions; instructors and teaching assistants monitor forums and jump in when needed.
For database professionals interested in venturing into big data projects and NoSQL databases, the MongoDB certification is certainly a worthwhile goal.
MongoDB NoSQL certification facts and figures
| >Certification name | MongoDB Certified DBA, Associate Level
MongoDB Certified Developer, Associate Level |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites and required courses | None; training recommended but not required |
| Number of exams | 1 test per credential (multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes; delivered online through MongoDB’s proctoring partner) |
| Cost per exam | $150 (or local currency equivalent) |
| >URL | https://university.mongodb.com/certification |
| Self-study materials | MongoDB University offers public and private training, as well as free online courses. Each test webpage includes a study guide and links to documentation, presentations and test study sessions (if available). |
Oracle Business Intelligence certification
Oracle has one of the largest certification programs in the world, and it has granted more than 1 million Oracle and Sun certifications.
Oracle offers its Business Intelligence (BI) certifications across several applications and platforms, such as Business Intelligence Applications 7 for CRM, Business Intelligence Applications 7 for ERP, and Business Intelligence Foundation 11g. To narrow down the field, we focused on the Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Certified Implementation Specialist credential.
Candidates for this certification are intermediate-level professionals (architects, analysts, developers and administrators) who work with Oracle Business Intelligence Suite solutions, performing tasks such as installing, building, querying, configuring, and managing the platform and BI dashboards.
Although anyone can attempt the exam, the certification is designed for members of the Oracle Partner Network who sell and deploy the technology.
New exams and training courses based on Oracle BI 12c are also becoming available as those courses and exams are released to the public.
Oracle Business Intelligence certification facts and figures
| Certification name | Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Certified Implementation Specialist |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites and required courses | None.
Recommended: |
| Number of exams | 1 exam: 1Z0-591 Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Essentials (75 multiple-choice questions, 120 minutes, 63% passing score) |
| Cost per exam | $245, administered by Pearson VUE. Exam vouchers may be purchased from Oracle University or Pearson VUE; Oracle Testing ID required to register; Oracle Partner Network members also need their OPN Company ID. |
| URL | https://www.oracle.com/partners/en/knowledge-zone/bi11g-essentials-exam-studyguide-1643168.pdf |
| Self-study materials | Training is available, including classroom, live virtual class, training on demand, self-study, learning streams and practice exams. Additional test preparation materials are listed on the test webpage. |
SAS Certified Data Scientist
SAS is a multibillion-dollar global corporation that specializes in business analytics software and services. The company’s well-honed certification program offers nine credentials across programming, information and data management, advanced analytics, and business intelligence.
Three noteworthy SAS certifications are the SAS Certified Data Scientist, SAS Certified Statistical Business Analyst Using SAS 9: Regression and Modeling, Business Intelligence Content Developer for SAS 9, and SAS Certified Big Data Professional Using SAS 9. We concentrated on the SAS Certified Data Scientist Using SAS 9.
Candidates for the Data Scientist certification should have in-depth knowledge of and skills in manipulating big data using SAS and open-source tools, using complex machine learning models, making business recommendations, and deploying models. Candidates must pass five exams to earn the SAS Certified Data Scientist credential.
SAS doesn’t require candidates to take certification courses as a prerequisite for exams, but the company offers an official curriculum for those who have the budget and need the extra preparation.
SAS “versioned” credentials, such as the SAS Certified Data Scientist Using SAS 9, do not expire. However, SAS may retire exams as new or enhanced software is released.
SAS Certified Data Scientist facts and figures
<td”>$180; Predictive Modeling test is $250
See the Certification Discount Packages webpage for discounts for faculty, staff, students, veterans and others.
</td”>
| Certification name | SAS Certified Data Scientist Using SAS 9 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites and required courses | SAS Certified Big Data Professional Using SAS 9
SAS Certified Advanced Analytics Professional Using SAS 9 See a list of courses that support Big Data and Advanced Analytics on the SAS Academy for Data Science webpage. Recommended Data Scientist training: SAS Certified Data Scientist (e-learning, $4,400; live instructor-led in Cary, North Carolina; 12 weeks, $16,000) |
| >Number of exams | 5 exams:
Exams include multiple-choice, short-answer and interactive questions (interactives are in simulated SAS environment). Exams available through Pearson VUE. |
| Cost per exam | |
| URL | https://www.sas.com/en_us/certification/credentials/advanced-analytics/data-scientist.html |
| Self-study materials | List of test preparation training and materials available on individual test pages. Free sample questions available. Practice exams ($500) available through SAS and Pearson VUE. |
Beyond the top 5: More big data certifications
It was a real challenge to whittle down this year’s list of popular big data certifications. The Cloudera Certified Professional Data Engineer (CCP Data Engineer) missed a spot in the top five by a small margin. The company also offers CCA Spark and Hadoop Developer and CCA Data Analyst certifications. Given the company’s leadership status in software and services based on Hadoop, the CCP Data Engineer certification is worth your consideration.
Other notable certifications include the IBM Certified Data Architect, the EMC: Data Science (EMCDS), and those from Amazon Web Services (AWS), Hortonworks, MapR and Teradata.
Check out Stanford’s Data Mining and Applications graduate certificate. Although it’s not a vendor-neutral or vendor-specific certification (it’s a college certificate), TechExams forum members like it in terms of popularity and job prospects. The certificate requires completion of three courses (nine college units) at a cost of $11,340 to $12,600. The Microsoft Professional Program (MPP) currently offers four tracks for online education with course completion certificates, including two relevant tracks: one on data science, the other on big data. These are worth checking out as well, and significantly cheaper than the Stanford certificate program.
There are many more. A quick Google search every month or two should reveal a growing list of big data, data analytics and BI certifications, and we think one or more of these is a smart way to spend your certification dollars.
Taking an test is the final step to earning an ISA certification. Upon paying the test fee, the application process is complete, and you have acknowledged that you meet the requirements listed below in numbers 1–3.
- Commit to the ISA Code of Conduct.
- Meet the education and work experience requirements for the specific certification for which you are applying.
- Acknowledge that you are subject to a random application verification audit.
- Agree to provide the supporting documents proving your qualifications if you are audited.
- Pay the test fee. (See “Exam Fee” section below for more information.)
Next Steps
- Watch for an email from coming from our testing provider, Meazure Learning (candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com). Expect to receive it fifteen days before your test window. The email will include information about how to schedule your test online or at a test center. NOTE: If you have attended a CCST review course and wish to apply for CCST certification, you must also meet the requirements listed above in numbers 1–3. Since the application fee is included in the cost of all CCST review courses, you will receive an test invitation within three business days after completing the review course.
- Schedule and take your exam. You will be notified whether you pass or not immediately upon completing the exam.
- Watch for an email summarizing your test results. If you pass your exam, you will also receive your digital badge and you will be listed in the ISA Credential Directory.
- Watch for an email from certification@isa.org regarding an audit. You will only receive this email if you have been randomly selected to be audited. If you do not receive this email, you do not need to do anything. Audits are conducted three times per year, so it may take several months after completing your test to receive an email if you have been selected for an audit.
Certification Exams Available
All ISA certification exams are closed book and have multiple choice questions. The CCST Specialist—Level 2 certification test is three hours long and all other certification exams are four hours long. See the information below for the number of questions in each exam.
| Exam | Questions |
| Certified Automation Professional® (CAP ®) | 175 |
| Certified Control System Technician® (CCST®) Level 1 | 150 |
| Certified Control System Technician (CCST) Specialist—Level 2 | 125 |
| Certified Control System Technician (CCST) Master—Level 3 | 150 |
Exam Fees
Submit payment to apply for the chosen certification when you can confirm that you meet the certification requirements to sit for the test and can test within the deadline of the test window of your choosing. You will be notified by email with the next steps to schedule your exam.
CAP
- CAP Requirements
- CAP Application Fee
- 347 USD — ISA Members
- 467 USD — Non-members
CCST
Apply for CCST Certification for Free
Register for one of the CCST review courses and apply for certification for no additional fee. The following courses qualify: Level I Review Course (TS00), Level II Review Course (TS02) or Level III Review Course (TS03). You will automatically receive an test invitation once you start the course. By paying for the review course, you are confirming that you are aware of, have met and can document the requirements for the certification level for which you are applying.
Payment Methods
ISA accepts payment for test fees by check, certified check, money order, PayPal payment, wire transfer in US Dollars, or credit card. Make checks payable to ISA. For wire transfer account information, please contact ISA Customer Service. The following credit cards are accepted: AMEX, Discover card, Master Card, and VISA. Purchase orders are not accepted.
Fees are nonrefundable. It is your responsibility as the applicant to thoroughly review the requirements of the certification for which you are applying. No refunds will be made for applicants who do not appear for testing on the appropriate test date. There are no group discounts for certification application fees.
Exam Scheduling
After you pay your test fee to complete the application process, you will receive an test invitation (Notice to Schedule Exam) email from candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com 15 days before the beginning of your assigned test window with steps to schedule the exam. Follow the instructions in the email to schedule your exam—online or at a test center—through the online test scheduling system. You can get more information about your test window deadline by accessing the “My Credentials” tab in your ISA account.
If you have not received your test invitation within that time frame, please check your spam or junk folder for an email from candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com, as some server firewalls may block the receipt of the email. If you still are unable to find your test invitation, please email certifications@isa.org for assistance.
See further related details on the Exam Procedures page.
Exam Windows
If you are applying for CAP or CCST certification, you have a twelve-month test window. You may take the test at a Test Center or online during one of three test windows (see chart below). Each test window will have a deadline for applications to be submitted. Eligible candidates will only be able to take the test during the following exam windows.
| Exam Window | Application Submission Deadline |
|---|---|
| 2023 Window 3: 1 November 2023 – 31 October 2024 |
15 September 2023 |
| 2024 Window 1: 1 March 2024 – 28 February 2025 |
15 January 2024 |
| 2024 Window 2: 1 July 2025 – 30 June 2025 |
15 May 2024 |
| 2024 Window 3: 1 November 2025 – 31 October 2025 |
15 September 2024 |
Review Course Testing: If you have attended a review course (paid for by you or sponsored by a company), you will receive your test invitation near the end of your review course and have a twelve (12) month test eligibility period based on the date of your review course.
Digital Badging
After passing the CAP or CCST certification exam, you will earn a digital badge. To access, manage, and/or share your secure digital badge, use your email address and password to enter your BadgeCert portfolio. If it is the first time accessing your portfolio, click “Request new password?” on their login page to create your password. More information about using your digital badge can be found here.
Grievances Appeal Process
If you feel you were wrongly denied certification, either original or renewal, from the CAP or CCST programs, then you have the right to appeal. Review the Grievances Appeal Process.
Your test invitation, or Notice to Schedule (NTS), email from Meazure Learning will have links for you to check your computer system. If you take your test online, it is important to verify that your computer meets the minimum requirements and that you have reliable access to the Internet. An internet connection disruption will suspend the test session.
IMPORTANT: If taking the test online, you must use a computer on which you have full admin access.
Requirements:
- You must be alone in the room throughout the test
- You are required to have a webcam installed on your test workstation
- PC computers are recommended; however MACs are also acceptable
- Chromebooks, tablets, iPads, dual/multiple monitors, and projectors are not permitted to be used as a testing device
- Your computer must meet the system and equipment requirements listed here
Additional Resources
If you have computer system questions after following the instructions provided by Meazure Learning's schedule confirmation email, please contact Meazure Learning at +1 919-572-6880 or candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com.
Note: Meazure Learning, Scantron, and ProctorU are all one-and-the-same organization.
- Your valid, government issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport, state-issued ID card)
- The printed test confirmation notice you received from Meazure Learning
- No other items can be brought into the test environment
- A calculator and any other necessary resource materials will be provided on the computer for those taking the test electronically
- No reference material will be allowed in any test room
- Please note that storage space will be limited
For all CCST level exams, Units Conversion Tables will be provided to candidates in either paper format (paper/pencil exams) or accessible within the electronic test interface for reference during the exam. Click here to review the Units Conversion Tables.
It is important to be certain when selecting the method and time you want to take the exam. You may incur fees if you change the time and method of testing. Exams must be scheduled in advance as follows:
- Candidates in the United States and Canada: you must submit your scheduling request at least two calendar days prior to your desired test date
- Candidates in other countries: you must submit your scheduling request at least five calendar days prior to your desired test date
If you are within your test window or eligibility period, you may reschedule your test appointment before the online and Test Center reschedule cut-off times via the online test scheduling system. If you are outside your test window and want to request an extension, please contact certifications@isa.org.
Changing from online test to another online exam
There is no rescheduling fee. However, it must be changed no less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment date and time.
Changing from online test to Test Center exam
There is no rescheduling fee. However, it must be changed at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled appointment. Additionally, you must reschedule the new appointment no less than two calendar days in advance of the new appointment at a Meazure Learning test center.
Changing from Test Center test to another Test Center exam
You will incur a rescheduling fee of 50 USD. Rescheduling fees are payable to Meazure Learning via a secure e-commerce site (credit card). The reschedule cut-off time is no later than two calendar days prior to the test appointment. Additionally, if you are scheduling a new online test appointment, it must be done no less than 24 hours prior to the new appointment date and time.
Reschedule Fees:
CAP Associate and CST Associate:- ISA members: 76 USD
- Non-members: 95 USD
- ISA members: 120 USD
- Non-members: 150 USD
- ISA members: 108 USD
- Non-members: 135 USD
- ISA members: 116 USD
- Non-members: 145 USD
You can cancel an test through Meazure Learning's online test scheduling system.
- Online test appointments must be cancelled no less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment date and time. There is no cancellation fee
- Exam center appointments must be cancelled no less than two calendar days prior to the scheduled testing appointment. There is a cancellation fee of 50 USD payable to Meazure Learning via a secure e-commerce site (credit card)
You may retest as many times as needed, if you do not pass or if you miss your scheduled exam, within your test window or eligibility period. However, there is a fee each time that is payable to ISA. If you need to retest or have missed your exam, you must submit a request to certification@isa.org.
If a candidate fails their exam, they may retest as many times as needed within their 12-month certification test window or six-month certificate eligibility period. There is a fee each time retesting is needed. If a candidate does not pass the test within the program test deadline, the applicant must reapply for that certification or register again for the certificate course to sit for the exam.
If you fail to appear for a scheduled test or arrive more than 15 minutes after the scheduled start time, you will be considered a no-show and forfeit your exam. However, you may retake a missed test by paying a rescheduling fee to ISA if you are within your test window or eligibility period. To request a rescheduled exam, email certifications@isa.org with your request. See test procedures section #4, Rescheduling an Exam, for reschedule fee costs.
You may qualify for an exception if you meet certain conditions and submit documentation to Meazure Learning no later than five calendar days after the scheduled test appointment. If the exception is approved, there will be a no-show exemption fee of 50 USD payable via secure e-commerce (credit card) and collected by Meazure Learning. Please contact Meazure Learning by phone at +1 919-572-6880 or email candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com for more details.All ISA certification exams are closed-book and have multiple choice questions. We apply a modified Angoff Method to determine the pass point for each test (learn more about the modified Angoff Method below). Our certification exams last between 3 and 4 hours and our certificate exams last two hours.
ISA does not provide a passing score; you are only notified whether you passed or failed. If you fail an exam, you will receive a score report that lists the domains and indicates the percentage of questions answered correctly within each domain. Note that the percentages are not used to calculate a candidate’s passing score.
You will see your test results on the screen at the completion of the exam. You will also receive your test results immediately via email from (candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com). If you do not receive an email containing your results within 24 hours, please contact Meazure Learning by phone at +1 919-572-6880 or email candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com for assistance.
If you pass your exam, you will receive an email containing a digital badge from isa_badges@isa.org within one business day of completing the exam. To access, manage, and/or share your secure digital badge, use your email address and password to enter your BadgeCert portfolio. If it is the first time accessing your portfolio or if you have forgotten your password, click “Request new password?” on their login page to create your password. More information about using your digital badge can be found here.
Be advised that we update our databases and systems with the previous month’s test data in the first part of the following month. ISA will update your credential status on the “My Credentials” tab from your ISA account and in ISA's Credential Directory within the first ten (10) business days of the following month you took your exam.
Modified Angoff Method
The modified Angoff Method uses expert judgements to determine the difficulty level of the exam. The easier the exam, the higher the pass point. Likewise, the more difficult the exam, the lower the pass point. The following is a basic outline of the modified Angoff Method (some details have been omitted):
- A group of subject matter experts (SMEs) independently rate each test question within a given form of the exam. The ratings are defined as the probability, or likelihood, that an acceptably (minimally) competent person with the requisite education and experience will answer the question correctly. An acceptably (minimally) competent person is defined as someone who adequately performs all job functions safely and requires no further training to do so.
- The SMEs review each test question as a group. A statistical consensus is reached for the difficulty rating of each test question.
- After the data is refined, the final step is to calculate the mean, or average, of all the test question ratings. This becomes the overall pass point estimation.
On occasion, the best-laid plans need to be changed. Please understand that changes incur administrative costs both for ABA and our test partner, Meazure Learning.
Should you need to cancel or reschedule your test after application, please review the fee schedule and procedures below.
Please note that fees and refunds are based on the dates applicable to your current test registration.
| Before Application Due Date | After Application Due Date | 2 Business Days or Less Prior to Scheduled test Date or End of the test Window | |
|---|---|---|---|
Transferto a future test date/window |
No fees | $175 fee to ABA | Entire test Fee Forfeited - No Changes Permitted |
Reschedulewithin the same test window |
No fees | $50 fee to Meazure Learning if a testing date had been selected | Entire test Fee Forfeited - No Changes Permitted |
Cancel |
Refund of test Fee minus $100 application fee | Refund of test Fee minus $275 | Entire test Fee Forfeited - No Changes Permitted |
ABA will consider waiving fees in case of a medical emergency. Requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and supporting documentation may be required. If you would like to transfer your certification test registration to a future test window (or to entirely cancel), please submit the Exam Window Change/Cancellation Form. Fees are subject to change without notice.
Transfer to a Future test Date/Window
- ABA will permit up to two (2) consecutive transfer requests for any reason. Should you not take the test after the second transfer request, ABA will cancel your registration and provide a partial refund of your test fee per the fee schedule above. Should you wish to take the test in the future, a new application and full fee is required.
- If you would like to transfer your certification test registration to a future test window (or to entirely cancel), please submit the Exam Window Change/Cancellation Form. A $175 fee applies.
- Requests to transfer will not be honored with less than 2 business days prior to the scheduled test date or the end of the test window and the entire test fee will be forfeited.
Reschedule Within the Same test Window
- To reschedule your test date within the same test window, access Meazure Learning's online scheduling system (referenced in your Notice to Schedule). Your request must be made 2 business days or more prior to your testing date appointment or the entire test fee will be forfeited. A $50 fee applies.
Cancel
- Send your cancellation request by completing the Exam Window Change/Cancellation Form.
- ABA will refund the test fee minus $275 up until 2 business days prior to the scheduled test date or end of the test window.
- The entire test fee is forfeited if you cancel less than 2 business days prior to the scheduled test date or end of the test window.
Project management is one of the fastest-growing professions, with an estimated 25 million jobs expected to be created around the world by 2030. To fill these roles, businesses across industries are seeking new project managers with the qualifications and expertise necessary to make a positive impact in their organizations.
The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® and Project Management Professional (PMP)® are both specialized credentials offered through the Project Management Institute (PMI)® that Strengthen credibility and offer professionals opportunities to increase their skills, lead larger projects and advance their careers.
In order to choose the certification that best aligns with your intended career goals, it is critical to understand the differences between CAPM and PMP certification. These differences include prerequisites, cost, level of difficulty and industry-wide perception of the credentials.
Because those planning to earn CAPM certification are not required to have project management experience or a four-year degree, the CAPM is ideal for latest community college graduates or current undergraduates who want to bolster their resume with a credential that demonstrates a commitment to a career in project management.
While the CAPM is ideal for people beginning their careers, there are some additional prerequisites, including that candidates must complete 23 contact hours before taking the exam. Contact hours are hours spent in project management education or training. These hours can be completed on site or online, enabling candidates to fulfill this requirement without putting their professional, educational or personal obligations on hold. Some universities may also offer project management education at this level as a part of a degree program.
OR
- A four-year degree
- 36 months of leading and directing projects within the past eight years
- 35 hours of project management education/training or CAPM certification
- While the PMP certification does not require a bachelor’s degree, job candidates who hold a four-year degree have a significant advantage. PMP candidates with a secondary degree must have 60 months of experience in leading and directing projects to qualify, while those with a four-year degree are only required to have 36 months of experience.
- In addition, the PMP certification requires 35 hours of project management education, compared to the CAPM’s 23-hour minimum requirement. Purdue’s flexible online Project Management Essentials course fulfills the hourly requirement of both certifications.
CAPM vs. PMP Certification test Cost
Professionals who pursue project management certification are making a valuable, long-term investment in their careers. Part of that investment does include test fees.
The PMI requires a fee for both exams, with the cost of the CAPM test at $225 for PMI members and $300 for non-members. The cost of the PMP test is $405 for PMI members and $575 for non-members. See the table below for a quick comparison.
| PMI members | Non-members | |
|---|---|---|
| CAPM test cost | $225 | $300 |
| PMP test cost | $405 | $575 |
A one-year membership to the PMI is $139 and comes with many tools and templates for your professional use, including a downloadable copy of the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide).
Many companies offer professional development benefits that may cover employee education and professional credentialing costs. According to a 2022 survey by the Society for Human Resources, 78% of employers cover opportunities for professional skill development.
How Difficult Are the CAPM and PMP Certification Exams?
Because the CAPM is geared toward entry-level project managers or those who are considering a project management career, the CAPM test is widely considered to be less rigorous than the PMP exam.
The CAPM test questions are derived from the PMBOK® Guide, PMI’s global standards for project management, as well as other sources, which are listed (with the relevant chapters) in the CAPM test reference list.
The PMP certification exam, on the other hand, is appropriate for individuals of varying experience levels — from those early in their career to established professionals with more significant project management experience — and is therefore more challenging to achieve.
Like the CAPM, the PMP test also covers the PMBOK® Guide, but it also includes questions designed to test whether the candidate knows how to handle real-world project management scenarios.
To pass the PMP Exam, PMI not only recommends studying the PMBOK® Guide, the PMP Examination Content Outline and the PMP handbook, but also enrolling in a formal course of study offered by a PMI Authorized Training Partner (ATP), such as Purdue University.
CAPM test Details
The CAPM test consists of 150 questions that call for multiple-choice, hot spot and drag-and-drop responses, in addition to animations and comic strips. The test questions cover four domains to integrate different project delivery approaches, with a specific proportion of questions in each.
| CAPM Domain | Proportion of test Questions |
|---|---|
| Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts | 36% |
| Predictive, Plan-Based Methodologies | 17% |
| Agile Frameworks/Methodologies | 20% |
| Business Analysis Frameworks | 27% |
Candidates have three hours to complete the test, with a 10-minute break in the middle.
PMP test Details
The PMP test consists of 180 questions that fall under three domains in predetermined proportions. About half of the questions represent predictive project management approaches, while the other half represent agile or hybrid approaches. Questions regarding these different approaches are spread throughout the domains.
| PMP Domain | Proportion of test Questions |
|---|---|
| People: includes managing conflict; building and leading a team; supporting team members and stakeholders; and collaboration | 42% |
| Process: includes communication, risk management, scope and schedule planning/management and project methodology selection | 50% |
| Business Environment: includes managing project compliance, assessing project value and integrating organizational change | 8% |
Candidates have 230 minutes to complete the exam, with two 10-minute breaks.
CAPM vs. PMP Certification: Industry-Wide Benefits
Considering that the CAPM certification is more affordable and requires less experience than PMP certification, project managers may ask themselves, “Why would I pursue PMP certification?” The answer is simple: The PMP is the most significant, industry-recognized certification for project managers worldwide.
PMPs work in a wide range of industries in almost every country. Many employers require PMP certification when hiring project managers because PMPs have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to lead complex projects and direct project teams.
PMPs bring value to their organizations while advancing their own careers. Project managers with a PMP certification earn a 22% higher median salary than those without a PMP certification, according to PMI’s Earning Power Salary Survey.
While CAPM certification isn’t as widely recognized as PMP certification, it demonstrates knowledge of PMI’s project management framework and project management processes, which can certainly benefit candidates when applying for jobs. In addition, CAPM-certified employees have a working knowledge of the PMBOK® Guide, which can serve as an excellent first step to eventually pursue PMP certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to convert a CAPM to a PMP?
Converting to PMP certification is not an option. However, CAPM certification meets the PMP test requirement for 35 hours of project management education/training, so you can achieve PMP certification faster.
How much experience do you need for CAPM certification?
CAPM certification does not require any professional experience, making it an attractive credential for latest graduates as well as anyone seeking to begin a career in project management. However, it does require a minimum of 23 contact hours of project management education.
How much experience do you need for PMP certification?
The experience needed to qualify for the PMP test and go on to earn PMP certification is based on previous education:
- Professionals with a four-year degree must have a minimum of three years (36 months) of non-overlapping project management experience, during which at least 4,500 hours were spent leading and directing project tasks and activities.
- Professionals without a four-year degree must have a minimum of five years (60 months) of non-overlapping project management experience, during which at least 7,500 hours were spent leading and directing project tasks and activities.
The experience requirements must have been accumulated within the past eight years.
Do I have to be a PMI member to earn CAPM certification?
PMI membership is not required to take the CAPM test or earn certification, but members do receive a discount on the test fee ($60 for PMI members, down from $150 for non-members), as well as other benefits.
Do I have to be a PMI member to earn PMP certification?
No, it is not necessary to become a PMI member to earn PMP certification, though members do have a reduced test fee ($60 for PMI members, down from $150 for non-members) among other benefits.
How long does it take to process the CAPM application? How long does it take to process the PMP application?
According to the PMI, applications take about five to ten days to process.
Do I need to renew my CAPM certification or my PMP certification?
Yes, both the CAPM certification and the PMP certification require a renewal every three years.
- Professionals with CAPM certification need to pay a renewal fee ($60 for PMI members, $150 for non-members) plus earn 15 professional development units (PDUs) over the three-year cycle in order to maintain their status. These PDUs are broken down into nine PMI Talent Triangle PDUs and six Giving Back PDUs.
- Those who have a PMP certification will need to pay a renewal fee ($60 for PMI members, $150 for non-members) plus earn 60 PDUs over the three-year cycle to maintain their status. PMP professionals have some choice in how they distribute their required PDUs; visit the PMI’s requirements page for more information.
Purdue University’s Online Project Management Courses
Professionals who participate in Purdue University’s online project management courses can gain a wealth of field knowledge, solid foundational skills, and exceedingly effective preparation for the PMP test in order to obtain a project management certificate. Course materials and activities align closely with A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) to help learners retain project management knowledge and apply it to their current projects.
Project Management Essentials
This 100% online, instructor-led course runs for eight weeks and allows working professionals to gain familiarity with basic project management concepts and terms.
Participants are empowered to begin effectively applying their newly acquired knowledge and skills to current projects and earn project management hours that can help qualify them to take the PMP exam.
Experienced PME instructors engage participants in a range of learning activities, including directed study of the PMBOK® Guide; online discussions; recorded lectures; quizzes and self-tests; and written assignments. The instructors also welcome the opportunity to coach interested learners on an individual basis via email or scheduled phone appointment.
PMP test Preparation
PMP test Preparation is a live, virtual course based on the PMBOK® Guide. Enrollment includes 90-day access to all course material, which is 100% aligned to the Project Management Institute’s PMP® test Prep content.
Participants get an in-depth review of some of the most challenging learning material on the test and learn how to build a personal study plan.
This course is for project managers who have a minimum of three years’ experience and prior knowledge of the PMBOK® Guide.
Project Management Professional, PMP, CAPM, and PMBOK are registered marks of the Project Management Institute, Inc.
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Sources
Project Management Institute. 2020. “PMI® Certifications.” Accessed June 5, 2023. https://www.pmi.org/-/media/pmi/documents/public/pdf/certifications/generic-certification-handbook-sixteen-translations.pdf
Project Management Institute. 2023. “PMI® Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) Examination Content Outline.” Accessed June 5, 2023. https://www.pmi.org/-/media/pmi/documents/public/pdf/certifications/capm20ecofinal.pdf
Project Management Institute. 2021. “Project Management Professional (PMP®) Examination Content Outline.” Accessed June 5, 2023. https://www.pmi.org/-/media/pmi/documents/public/pdf/certifications/pmp-examination-content-outline.pdf
Project Management Institute. 2021. “Talent Gap: Ten-Year Employment Trends, Costs, and Global Implications.” Accessed June 5, 2023. https://www.pmi.org/-/media/pmi/documents/public/pdf/learning/career-central/talent-gap-report-2021-finalfinal.pdf
Society for Human Resources. 2022. “Employee Benefits Survey: Executive Summary.” Accessed June 5, 2023. https://shrm-res.cloudinary.com/image/upload/v1654193525/Membership%202022/Employee_Benefits_Survey_-_Executive_Summary_-_FINAL.pdf
What Is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)?
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a formal recognition of expertise in the areas of financial planning, taxes, insurance, estate planning, and retirement saving.
Owned and awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., the designation is awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board's initial exams, then continue ongoing annual education programs to sustain their skills and certification.
Key Takeaways
- A certified financial planner (CFP) has received a formal designation from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
- CFPs help individuals in a variety of areas in managing their finances, such as retirement, investing, education, insurance, and taxes.
- Becoming a CFP is a difficult and stringent process. It requires years of experience, successful completion of standardized exams, a demonstration of ethics, and a formal education.
- The most important aspect quality of a CFP is that they have a fiduciary duty, meaning they must make decisions with their client's best interests in mind.
Understanding a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
CFPs are there to help individuals manage their finances. This can include a variety of needs, such as investment planning, retirement planning, insurance, and education planning. The most important aspect of a CFP is to be a fiduciary of your assets, meaning that they will make decisions with your best interests in mind.
CFPs are all-encompassing, particularly when compared to investment advisors. CFPs will usually start the process by evaluating your current finances, including any cash, assets, investments, or properties, to come up with an estimate of your income and net worth. They also take a look at your liabilities, such as mortgages and student debt.
From this point on they work with you to come up with an individualized financial plan. For example, say you are nearing retirement, the CFP will create a financial plan that can see you through your retirement years. Or perhaps you have a child that will be starting college. The CFP can help create a financial plan to manage that cost.
A CFP is a financial adviser who has earned a certification that indicates in-depth knowledge of financial planning. The requirements to become a CFP are some of the most difficult and stringent in the financial industry.
CFP and Fiduciary Duty
All CFPs are held to the standard of fiduciary duty. That means they must always put your interests as a client ahead of their own. For example, if they would more money selling one product over another, but the product that made them less money was better for you, that is the product they must recommend.
A CFP's fiduciary duty is clearly laid out by the CFP Board and states "At all times when providing financial advice to a client, a CFP professional must act as a fiduciary, and therefore, act in the best interest of the client."
The board goes on to state that three duties must be met by an adviser with a fiduciary duty. These are (1) duty of loyalty, (2) duty of care, and (3) duty to follow client instructions.
How to Become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Earning the CFP designation involves meeting requirements in four areas: formal education, performance on the CFP exam, relevant work experience, and demonstrated professional ethics.
The education requirements comprise two major components. The candidate must hold a bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited university or college. Second, the candidate must complete a list of specific courses in financial planning, as specified by the CFP Board.
Much of this second requirement is typically waived if the candidate holds certain accepted financial designations, such as a chartered financial analyst (CFA) or certified public accountant (CPA) designation, or has a higher degree in business, such as a master of business administration (MBA).
As for professional experience, candidates must prove they have at least three years (or 6,000 hours) of full-time professional experience in the industry, or two years (4,000 hours) in an apprenticeship role.
Lastly, candidates and CFP holders must adhere to the CFP Board's standards of professional conduct. They must also regularly disclose information about any involvement in criminal activity, inquiries by government agencies, bankruptcies, customer complaints, or terminations by employers. The CFP Board conducts an extensive background check on all candidates before granting the certification.
Even successful completion of the above steps doesn't ensure receipt of the CFP designation. The CFP Board has final discretion on whether to award the designation to an individual.
The Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Exam
The CFP exam includes 170 multiple-choice on more than 100 subjects related to financial planning. The scope includes professional conduct and regulations, financial planning principles, education planning, risk management, insurance, investments, tax planning, retirement planning, and estate planning.
The various syllabu areas are weighted, and the most latest weighting is available on the CFP Board website. Further questions test the candidate's expertise in establishing client-planner relationships and gathering relevant information, and their ability to analyze, develop, communicate, implement, and monitor the recommendations they make to their clients.
Here's some additional information on the administration, costs, and scoring of the CFP exam:
- Timing: Candidates sit for two three-hour sessions on a single day; a 40-minute break period separates the sessions. Exams are typically offered in three eight-day windows: March, July, and November.
- Cost: $925 for an test administered at a U.S. test site, with a discount for early applications and a surcharge for late ones.
- Passing Score: This is criterion-referenced, which means performance is measured according to a set level of required competency, rather than against the scores of other individuals who have written the same exam. This prevents any advantages or disadvantages that can occur when past exams were of lower or higher difficulty.
- Retaking the test: If you fail, you may retake the test up to four additional times.
CFP vs. CFA
Though a certified financial planner (CPA) and a chartered financial analyst (CFA) may sound similar, they are different certifications with different job functions and clients. A CFP works with individuals, often retail clients, helping them achieve their financial goals. This includes help in investing and retirement planning.
A CFA works with corporations performing investment analysis. CFAs focus on financial reporting, analysis, and portfolio management. They can trade financial products, such as derivatives, and help in mergers and acquisitions. CFA's usually work for investment banks and hedge funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Do You Need a CFP?
If you are just looking to invest money in stocks and bonds, a CFP probably isn't needed.
If you are looking to manage your finances, investment choices, estate planning, and retirement planning, a CFP can help you with all of those needs.
A CFP is a step above a non-designated financial advisor and has demonstrated expertise in financial planning.
How Much Does a CFP Cost?
How much a CFP costs will depend on your specific needs.
On average, a CFP charges between $1,800 and $2,500 for preparing a full financial plan. You also should expect $4,000 for a flat-fee retainer or $250 per hour for hourly services.
Is CFP the Same as CFA?
No, CFP and CFA are not the same.
A CFP is a certified financial planner who provides financial planning advice to individuals. This includes help with investing, retirement planning, estate planning, and tax law.
A CFA is a chartered financial analyst who may work for an investment bank or hedge fund and performs financial analysis, modeling, trading, and portfolio management services.
Is CFP Equivalent to MBA?
No, a CFP is not equivalent to an MBA.
A certified financial planner (CFP) is qualified to advise individuals on financial planning.
The holder of a master of business degree has studied the way businesses operate.
The career paths differ. A CFP works in financial consulting or wealth management. An MBA may be a business manager, portfolio manager, financial analyst, financial strategist, or even an entrepreneur.
Is the CFP test Hard?
The CFP test requires a lot of preparation and covers a wide range of subjects in depth. The best way to ensure you pass the CFP test is by preparing for it well in advance and sticking to a study schedule.
The Bottom Line
Becoming a CFP takes education and experience, as well as a strong grasp of financial ethics. The test to gain this distinction is comprised of 170 questions and is split into two three-hour sessions.
Even if candidates pass the test and meet all the requirements, the CFP Board still has the final say about whether to award this distinction. Given the stringent requirements, CFPs can be assumed to have an in-depth understanding of financial planning.
MTTC tests are meant to ensure that each certified teacher has the necessary skills and subject area knowledge to serve in Michigan's schools. These tests are designed and implemented by the Michigan Department of Education.
Save all official MTTC score reports in a safe place because you may need them for employment or teacher certification in other states. If you need new score reports, additional copies may be ordered using these instructions.
In order to be certified, students must pass the MTTC subject area tests that correspond to the major and minor field(s) of study. These tests should not be taken until the final year of the program, but it is highly recommended that students pass their MTTC subject area test(s) before student teaching.
- Find out which subject tests you need to take.
- Subject area test scores are valid for five years from the date of testing (students need to be recommended for certification within those five years).
- Register at the Michigan Test for Teacher Certification website.
- The fee for each subject test is $129.
- During the registration process, be sure to identify yourself as a Calvin student and also request that your scores be sent to Calvin.
- Be careful to enter an accurate social security number. It is a huge inconvenience if you enter an incorrect number. Canadians, please register using your U.S. social security number, not your Canadian social insurance number.
- When asked if you are completing an “alternative route” to teacher certification, answer “No” (Calvin’s program is a traditional route).
- Candidates with diagnosed disabilities may register for alternative testing arrangements.
- Candidates who do not speak English as a primary language may request additional time for any MTTC test except world language subject tests.
- Be sure to review the appropriate study guides. Depending on your subject area, you may find helpful practice problems at education.com or 240Tutoring. Curriculum Collection middle or high school textbooks may be used to review content.
- Tests are no longer offered on campus. All MTTC tests are now computer-based only. Test Center locations are available in cities worldwide.
Elementary Education Students
Students seeking elementary certification must also take the Elementary Education MTTC test #103. Do not take the new Lower or Upper Elementary tests 117-124. When registering for the Elementary Education test, report elementary education as a "major." Take the time to review the online study guide and test objectives. Spend extra time studying for these subareas, which have lower pass rates:
- Social Studies
- Visual and Performing Arts
- Health and Physical Education
Special Education Program Students
Candidates interested in teaching grades 9–12 special education in a Michigan public school may need to take additional MTTC tests later in consultation with the hiring school (mathematics, integrated science, and/or language arts).
If you have questions, contact Calvin's certification and assessment coordinator at (616) 526-6208 or certification@calvin.edu.
