Taking an exam is the final step to earning an ISA certification. Upon paying the exam 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 exam 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 exam window. The email will include information about how to schedule your exam 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 exam 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 exam 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 exam 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 exam 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 exam and can test within the deadline of the exam 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 exam 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 exam 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 exam date. There are no group discounts for certification application fees.
Exam Scheduling
After you pay your exam fee to complete the application process, you will receive an exam invitation (Notice to Schedule Exam) email from candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com 15 days before the beginning of your assigned exam 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 exam scheduling system. You can get more information about your exam window deadline by accessing the “My Credentials” tab in your ISA account.
If you have not received your exam 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 exam 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 exam window. You may take the exam at a Test Center or online during one of three exam windows (see chart below). Each exam window will have a deadline for applications to be submitted. Eligible candidates will only be able to take the exam 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 exam invitation near the end of your review course and have a twelve (12) month exam 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.
Project management certifications have claimed a place in every top IT certification list for years. That’s because project managers are important to IT operations of all kinds. Whether you are interested in becoming an IT project manager or just want to add project management to your list of soft skills, these five leading certifications will help you add to or boost those skills and, in turn, increase your value.
If there’s a single set of soft skills that’s been fixed on the IT radar for the past decade or so, to the point where it’s become almost as sought after and every bit as valuable as top-level credentials, it must be project management. Thanks in large part to the immensely popular and widely pursued Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI), this area has become an incredibly valuable merit badge for IT professionals of all stripes. That’s because it enhances and expands on the value of just about any other kind of technical credential.
Project management has everything to do with planning, scheduling, budgeting for, and then executing and reporting on projects of all shapes and sizes. In fact, anything and everything that IT does can be understood or handled as a project of some kind. It applies to one-of-a-kind activities that happen only once or very seldom (think hardware or OS upgrades or migrating from older to newer platforms or infrastructures). Ditto for a recurring series of activities that repeat regularly (think security patches, software updates or other regular maintenance tasks). Thus, project management is incredibly important and valuable to IT operations across the board.
According to PMI’s Earning Power: Project Management Salary Survey, 10th Edition [pdf], IT professionals who hold a PMP report median base annual salaries in the U.S. of almost $116,000. The top 25 percent of survey respondents report base salaries of at least $139,000. Depending on such factors as complexity and size of projects, location, fields of expertise (e.g., IT, construction or healthcare), and experience, salaries for some PMP credential holders can be much higher still.
Robert Half’s Technology & IT 2019 Salary Guide lists project management as a hot certification, with salaries varying slightly by technology area. It cites a salary range of $93,000 to $157,500 for project managers in application development environments. Project managers engaged in consulting and system integration roles can expect to earn $96,250 to $163,500 nationwide. This explains nicely why PMP appears in nearly every top 10 list of popular, targeted or most desirable certifications since the early 2000s. It’s no surprise that Robert Half also lists the PMP credential, along with Agile and Scrum certifications, as “highly valued technology certifications” trending up in the IT industry.
To supply you an idea of which project management credentials employers look for in prospective candidates, we conducted a quick survey on some popular job boards. Clearly, the PMP is the overall favorite and remains our No. 1 pick for must-have project management certifications. PMI’s entry-level project management credential, the CAPM, also made our top five. The CSM from Scrum Alliance, along with ASQ’s Certified Six Sigma Black Belt and Green Belt credentials, round out those picks. It’s also worth noting that job postings for project managers increased by 20 percent from 2018 across all project management certifications.
Job board survey results (in alphabetical order, by certification)
| Certification | SimplyHired | Indeed | LinkedIn Jobs | LinkUp.com | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAPM (Project Management Institute) | 593 | 718 | 1,187 | 381 | 2,879 |
| CSM (Scrum Alliance) | 3,550 | 4,916 | 9,286 | 3,052 | 20,804 |
| CSSBB (ASQ) | 998 | 1,231 | 1,817 | 848 | 4,864 |
| CSSGB (ASQ) | 1,205 | 1,457 | 1,966 | 842 | 5,470 |
| PMP (Project Management Institute) | 13,683 | 18,311 | 28,064 | 9,096 | 69,154 |
CAPM: Certified Associate in Project Management
CAPM: Certified Associate in Project Management
The same organization behind the more senior Project Management Professional (PMP) credential also backs the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM). In fact, the CAPM is properly considered a steppingstone credential for those who wish to attain PMP status by stages, rather than in a single giant leap. That’s why PMI describes the CAPM as a “valuable entry-level certification for project practitioners” that is “designed for those with little or no project experience.”
The PMP requires three to five years of documented on-the-job project management experience, depending on the educational background of each applicant. On the other hand, the CAPM requires only a high school diploma and either 1,500 hours of documented on-the-job experience (about nine months of full-time work) or 23 hours of project management classroom training prior to taking the exam. The education prerequisite can be met by completing PMI’s Project Management Basics online course which costs $350 for PMI members and $400 for non-members.
Nor does the CAPM require continuing education (which PMI calls PDUs, or professional development units) as does the PMP (60 PDUs every three years) to maintain this credential. To recertify, CAPM holders must retake the exam once every five years.
The CAPM is one of a small set of entry-level project management certifications (including the CompTIA Project+) that IT professionals interested in project management might choose to pursue. Remember, though, that it is just a steppingstone to the PMP.
Unless you work in a large organization where a project management team is in place that includes junior as well as senior positions, the CAPM by itself is unlikely to provide a ticket to a project management job. However, it’s ideal for IT professionals for whom project management is a part-time job role or who want to grow into full-time project management.
CAPM facts and figures
| Certification name | Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites/required courses | High school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent, plus 1,500 hours of project management experience or 23 hours of project management education
Certification valid for five years; candidates must retake exam to maintain credential. |
| Number of exams | One (150 questions; 15 questions are unscored; three hours to complete) |
| Cost per exam | Computer- or paper-based exams:
PMI member: $225 (retake $150) Nonmember: $300 (retake $200) Exam available in online proctored or center-based test (CBT) formats. Exam administered by Pearson VUE. |
| URL | www.pmi.org/Certification/Certified-Associate-in-Project-Management-CAPM.aspx |
| Self-study materials | PMI maintains a list of self-study materials on its exam guidance webpage, including the Exam Content Outline [pdf], sample exam questions [pdf] and the CAPM Handbook [pdf].
Numerous books are available, including: A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) – Sixth Edition; Sept. 22, 2017; Project Management Institute; ISBN-10: 1628251840; ISBN-13: 978-1628251845 (available for free download to PMI members) CAPM exam Prep, Third Edition, by Rita Mulcahy, Sept. 2013, RMC Publications, ISBN-10: 1932735720, ISBN-13: 978-1932735727 CAPM/PMP Project Management Certification All-in-One exam Guide, Fourth Edition, by Joseph Phillips; April 23, 2018; McGraw-Hill Education; ISBN-10: 1259861627; ISBN-13: 978-1259861628 |
CSM: Certified ScrumMaster
As companies seek to deliver more for less, many adopt Agile methodologies to streamline processes, build quality into products and ensure that final builds meet customer requirements. As Agile methodologies have become more popular, it’s no surprise that we see increased demand for IT practitioners qualified to manage projects in Agile environments.
While different Scrum master certifications are available, our pick is the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) from the Scrum Alliance. This nonprofit encourages adoption of Scrum and Agile practices, promotes user groups and learning events, and provides resources for professional development. The organization boasts more than 500,000 certified practitioners worldwide.
The Scrum Alliance provides a support system for Scrum practitioners, including Scrum Gatherings, user groups, virtual communications, coaching, online training and much more. In addition to community and advocacy activities, the Scrum Alliance offers numerous Scrum-related certifications at the foundation, advanced, professional, elevated (guide) and leadership levels. Scrum Alliance certifications are designed for team members engaged in Scrum master, product owners and developer roles. The Scrum master and product owner tracks offer credentials at the foundation, advanced and professional levels which the developer track only offers a foundation and professional level cert.
- Scrum Master Track: Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Advanced Certified ScrumMaster (A-CSM), and Certified Scrum Professional – Scrum Master (CSP-SM)
- Product Owner Track: Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) Advanced Certified Scrum Product Owner (A-CSPO) and Certified Scrum Professional – Product Owner (CSP-PO)
- Developer Track: Certified Scrum Developer (CSD) and Certified Scrum Professional (CSP)
- Elevated or guide credentials: Certified Scrum Trainer (CST), Certified Team Coach (CTC) and Certified Enterprise Coach (CEC)
- Agile Leadership: The Scrum Alliance also offers the Certified Agile Leadership (CAL) program, a credential based on a combination of education and validated practice. There are two credentials – the Certified Agile Leadership I and Certified Agile Leadership II.
For project managers getting started as Scrum practitioners, the CSM makes an excellent entry-level credential. Not only must candidates demonstrate an understanding of Scrum principles and values, but they’ll learn how to implement and apply Scrum in practice. The Scrum Alliance provides CSMs with multiple resources, plus checklists and information about the servant-leader role of the Scrum master.
Certified ScrumMaster facts and figures
CSSBB: Certified Six Sigma Black Belt
Globally recognized, ASQ certifications attest to candidate expertise, mastery of industry and regulation standards, and mastery of the ASQ Body of Knowledge. Currently, ASQ offers 18 credentials, three of which specifically target project management: the Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) (expert level), the Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) (professional level) and the Six Sigma Yellow Belt (CSSYB) (entry level).
The Certified Six Sigma Black Belt is ASQ’s highest Six Sigma credential. The CSSBB aims at experienced practitioners who understand Six Sigma methodologies (including the DMAIC model), tools, systems and philosophies. CSSBBs can lead teams or manage team dynamics, roles and responsibilities.
The path to CSSBB certification is rigorous. In addition to passing a comprehensive exam, candidates must complete two projects that employ Six Sigma tools and processes, resulting in project improvement and a positive financial project impact. An affidavit is also required to attest to the veracity of the project. Alternatively, candidates with at least three years of experience in one or more of the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge areas need only complete one Black Belt project.
CSSBB candidates are expected to demonstrate mastery of the ASQ Black Belt Body of Knowledge, called standards:
- Organization-wide Planning and Deployment (organization-wide considerations, leadership)
- Organization Process Management and Measures (impact on stakeholders, benchmarking, business measures)
- Team Management (team formation, facilitation, dynamics, training)
- Define (voice of the customer, business case and project charter, project management tools, analytical tools)
- Measure (process characteristics, data collection, measurement systems, basic statistics, probability, process capability)
- Analyze (measuring and modeling relationships between variables, hypothesis testing, failure mode and effects analysis, other analysis methods)
- Improve (design of experiments, lean methods, implementation)
- Control (statistical process control and other controls, maintain controls, sustain improvements)
- Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) Framework and Methodologies (common DFSS methodologies, design for DVX, robust designs)
The CSSBB is valid for three years. To recertify, candidates must earn 18 recertification units or retake the exam.
CSSBB facts and figures
| Certification name | Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites/required courses | Two completed projects with signed project affidavit, or one completed project with signed affidavit plus three years of experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge |
| Number of exams | One: computer-based (165 questions, 4.5 hours) or paper-based (150 questions, 4 hours) |
| Cost per exam | $438 members, $538 nonmembers (retakes $338)
Exams administered by Prometric. |
| URL | https://asq.org/cert/six-sigma-black-belt |
| Self-study materials | ASQ maintains a comprehensive list of exam prep materials, including training opportunities, question banks, interactive sample exams, books and other recommended references. |
CSSGB: Certified Six Sigma Green Belt
The Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) by ASQ is a professional-level credential targeting experienced Six Sigma practitioners. Often, a CSSGB works under the direction of the more senior CSSBB or as an assistant. CSSGBs identify issues and drive quality and process improvements in projects.
To earn the credential, candidates should have at least three years of experience working with Six Sigma processes, systems and tools. The work experience must have been full time and compensated; an unpaid internship, for example, doesn’t count. In addition, work performed must have been in at least one of the Six Sigma Green Belt Body of Knowledge competency areas.
In addition to work experience, candidates must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the Six Sigma Green Belt Body of Knowledge. Currently, the Green Belt Body of Knowledge includes six competency areas:
- Overview: Six Sigma and the Organization (organizational goals, lean principles, design methodologies)
- Define Phase (project identification, customer voice, project management basics, management and planning tools, project business results, team dynamics and performance)
- Measurement Phase (process analysis and documentation, probability and statistics, statistical distributions, data collection, measurement system analysis, process and performance capability)
- Analyze Phase (exploratory data analysis, hypothesis testing)
- Improve Phase (design of experiments, root cause analysis, lean tools)
- Control Phase (statistical process control, control plan, lean tools for process control)
Overall, this is an excellent credential for those who have some experience but are not quite ready to take on the roles and responsibilities of a Black Belt.
CSSGB facts and figures
| Certification name | Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites/required courses | Three years of experience in one or more of the Six Sigma Green Belt Body of Knowledge areas
Experience must be a full-time paid position (internships do not meet the experience requirement) |
| Number of exams | One: computer-based (110 questions, 4.5 hours) or paper-based (100 questions, 4 hours) |
| Cost per exam | $338 members, $438 nonmembers; retakes cost $238
Exams administered by Prometric. |
| URL | https://asq.org/cert/six-sigma-green-belt |
| Self-study materials | ASQ maintains a comprehensive list of exam prep materials, including training opportunities, question banks, interactive sample exams, books and other recommended references. |
PMP: Project Management Professional
The Project Management Institute (PMI) not only stands behind its Project Management Professional certification, it works with academia and training companies to ensure proper coverage and currency in the various curricula that support this and other PMI credentials. Boasting more than 500,000 global members and 750,000 PMP certified professionals around the world, PMI’s PMP remains one of the most prestigious project management credentials available. (Note: The PMP’s precursor, the CAPM, is covered in an earlier section of this article.)
That’s why you can obtain college- and university-based PMP training from so many institutions. It’s also why you may sometimes find PMP coverage integrated into certain degree programs (often at the master’s degree level).
The PMP credential is coveted by employers seeking the most highly skilled project management professionals. Developed by project managers, the PMP certification is the highest level offered in PMI certifications. It is designed to ensure that credential-holders possess the skills and qualifications necessary to successfully manage all phases of a project, including initiating, planning, scheduling, controlling and monitoring, and closing out the project.
PMP certified projects managers are also well versed and skilled in managing all aspects of the triple constraints – time, cost and scope. Employers depend on the skills of PMP professionals to manage budgets, track costs, manage scope creep, identify how changes to the triple constraints may introduce risk into the project, and minimize such risk to protect the project investment.
The standards for PMP certification are rigorous. Beyond passing a comprehensive exam, credential holders must first demonstrate and certify that they have the skills and education necessary to succeed in the project management field. Credential seekers should be ready to provide documentation for items such as education, projects worked on and hours spent in each of the five project management stages – initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing out the project.
While it’s difficult to achieve, the rewards for PMP credential holders can be significant. According to PMI’s Earning Power: Project Management Salary Survey, 10th Edition, PMPs in the U.S. earn an average of 23 percent more than their non-credentialed counterparts. The survey reports median salaries of PMPs in the United States at $115,000, as opposed to $92,000 for non-PMP certified project managers.
For those interested in program management or wishing to specialize in a project management area, PMI offers several interesting additional credentials:
The PMP remains a nonpareil certification for IT and other professionals whose responsibilities encompass project management. It is the standard against which all other project management credentials are judged.
It should be noted that, after meeting the prerequisites, candidates are also required to pass a rigorous exam. Candidates must obtain an eligibility ID from PMI before they can register for the exam.
PMP facts and figures
| Certification name | Project Management Professional (PMP) |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites/required Courses | Required courses: None
Prerequisite skills: Four-year degree, 4,500 hours in leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education OR Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or equivalent), 7,500 hours leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education Note: Credential holders must earn 60 professional development units (PDUs) per each three-year cycle to maintain certification. |
| Number of exams | One (200 questions, 4 hours) |
| Cost per exam | Paper* and computer-based exams:
PMI member: $405 (retake $275) Nonmember: $555 (retake $375) *Paper-based exam only available if candidates lives more than 150 miles from testing center or if testing center is not available in the country of residence and travel would provide an undue burden. Exam administered by Prometric. Eligibility ID from PMI required to register. |
| URL | www.pmi.org/Certification/Project-Management-Professional-PMP.aspx |
| Self-study materials | PMI maintains a list of training resources on the PMP exam guidance webpage, including links to sample questions, the PMP exam Content Outline [pdf] and the PMP Handbook [pdf]. Additional training materials (quizzes, publications, books, practice guides and more) are available from the PMI Store.
Numerous books are available, including: Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide) – Sixth Edition; Sept. 22, 2017; Project Management Institute; ISBN-10: 1628251840; ISBN-13: 978-1628251845 (available for free download to PMI members) PMP exam Prep: Accelerated Learning to Pass the Project Management Professional (PMP) Exam, Ninth Edition, by Rita Mulcahy; Feb. 1, 2018; RMC Publications Inc.; ISBN-10: 1943704040; ISBN-13: 978-143704040 CAPM/PMP Project Management Certification All-in-One exam Guide, Fourth Edition, by Joseph Phillips; April 23, 2018; McGraw-Hill Education; ISBN-10: 1259861627; ISBN-13: 978-1259861628 Practice exams: PMP exam practice questions and Study Guide, Ninth Edition, by J. LeRoy Ward and Ginger Levin; June 28, 2018; Auerbach Publications, ISBN-10: 1138440299; ISBN-13: 978-1138440299 |
Beyond the top 5: More project management certifications
Project management is truly a white-hot area for both certification seekers and employers. Several other project management certifications are available, for general IT project management as well as software development project management.
Honorable mention goes to the Global Association for Quality Management (GAQM) project management certifications, such as the Professional in Project Management, Associate in Project Management and Certified Project Director. The Prince2 Foundation and Practitioner qualifications (featured in the 2017 top-five list) are also excellent credentials and worth honorable mention.
The CompTIA Project+ credential (featured in the 2017 top-five list and honorable mention in 2018) remains a well-known entry-level project management certification for those starting their project management careers. ASQ’s Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt (CSSYB) is another entry-level credential worth exploring, particularly if you’re interested in eventually moving up to the more senior Green and Black Belt credentials.
Most graduate business, management and management information systems (MIS) programs offer project management training to students, and some offer certificate programs outside the project management organizations as well.
You’ll also find training and occasional certification around various project management tool sets. For example, some Microsoft Learning Partners offer courses on Microsoft Project, and you can find a dizzying array of project management packages on Wikipedia’s comparison of project management software page.
The CAPM and Project+ remain the best-known entry-level project management certifications, with the PMP as the primary professional target and capstone for would-be professional IT project managers. Don’t forget to consider PMI’s related certifications as well. For project managers seeking entry into the realm of Scrum, the CSM is the best entry-level cert for Scrum practitioners.
Miroslav Stojkovic, MSc CEng MRAeS
Miroslav's work includes theoretical, experimental, and practical investigations of performance polymer composite and metallic structures when subjected to a wide variety of loading, process modelling and system engineering. He has extensive experience in product development, analysis, testing and manufacturing process development of composite and metallic materials, structures and systems gained through 20 years of experience by working in regulated industries and R&D environment.
OPP coordinates all educator certification testing for students across the university. Services include test preparation, administration of representative diagnostic tests and approval for TEA certification testing.
Educator candidates at Baylor are well prepared for state certification exams. Candidates participate in diagnostic test and review sessions as they prepare to demonstrate a deep knowledge base as measured by state exams. A robust network of support within the Baylor community ensures candidates every opportunity to become competent, successful educators who impact their students, communities and world.
Visit the TEA site for information about state of Texas certification exams:
https://tea.texas.gov/Texas_Educators/Certification/Educator_Testing/
More resources and information about testing may be accessed through Canvas for current students:
https://www.baylor.edu/canvas/
For questions about testing, contact:
Lisa Osborne
Educator Preparation Program Support Specialist
Office of Professional Practice
(254) 710-3190
Lisa_Osborne@baylor.edu
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At-home STD tests offer a convenient, private way to screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The best tests use CLIA-certified labs and can identify many STIs.
Bonus: the best in-lab STD tests
Below, we look at five of the best STI tests people can order and complete at home.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
All quotes are provided by Medical News Today Editor, Lois Zoppi, who received a free herpes test from LetsGetChecked to review.
Telehealth options make it possible for a person to work directly with some labs to get an in-lab STD test. With an in-lab test STD test, a person knows their sample will be collected by a health professional and they have ready access to professional medical advice. However, in-lab STD tests also mean a person has to schedule a test, travel to the lab, and have less privacy.
The following are some of the best in-lab STD tests:
The table below compares the STI test kit brands listed above. The prices listed in this table are for one-time purchases without insurance.
Some advantages and disadvantages of at-home STI tests, compared with lab tests, include:
After receiving their test kit from an online provider, people can take the STI test with all the company’s tools. This may include needles or lancets, swabs, collection tubes, alcohol wipes, bandaids, and a prepaid envelope.
An individual might need to take a blood or urine sample or a rectal, oral, or vaginal swab, depending on the STI test. They can then return their sample to a testing center through the mail.
Typically, companies will ask people to take and return their samples on the same day.
The company will then test the sample — usually at a CLIA-certified lab — and send a person’s results through a secure online portal. People can then discuss their results with the company’s medical team or a healthcare professional.
People should not make health decisions based on the results of an at-home test without first consulting a doctor.
The FDA writes that at-home tests are cost-effective, fast, and confidential ways to test for health conditions at home. However, it warns that these tests should not replace regular care from a doctor. People can find FDA-approved at-home tests on the FDA website.
The accuracy of these tests may depend on the sample collection method, how quickly a person ships their sample back, and the lab that tests the sample.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) has established quality standards for laboratory testing and an accreditation program for clinical laboratories.
However, not all online testing companies have received CLIA certification. Therefore, a person should look for this certification when buying tests to verify their accuracy and quality.
Healthcare insurance providers, including Medicare and Medicaid, typically cover some or all of the cost of STI testing. However, there are several places where a person may receive free or low cost STI screening.
Learn more about where to receive STI testing.
Planned Parenthood
Planned Parenthood is no longer eligible for federal funding through the Title X program. The organization can only offer free or low cost STI testing if it receives funding from the location state. Due to this, a person must call or otherwise contact their local center to check whether it offers affordable testing.
Community clinics and city health centers
A person’s local community clinic or city health center may offer free or low cost STI testing. These clinics may provide a mix of walk-ins or appointments.
Find a local community health clinic on the government HealthCare website.
Additionally, the CDC offers a database where people can find centers that offer free or low cost STI testing and vaccinations. People can search via their ZIP code or state.
Student health centers
Student health centers may offer low cost STI screening for students enrolled in local colleges.
A person can find their student health center through their college website or by contacting their college unions.
LGBTQ+ community centers
People who consider themselves part of the LGBTQIA+ community may prefer to visit an LGBTQIA+ community center.
These centers may be able to provide people with information on where to find low cost healthcare with an LGBTQIA+-friendly healthcare professional.
Find a local LGBTQ+ community center on the LGBT Centers website.
The CDC mentions that STI tests may benefit people with an increased chance of contracting a sexual infection. They include:
The CDC also states that taking an STI test during pregnancy may help prevent complications.
It is important to note that STIs do not always cause symptoms. However, people may wish to take a test if they experience:
Individuals may wish to take a test if they believe they have had exposure to an STI.
Some people may prefer to get tests done in person. This may be a more suitable option for people who do not feel comfortable collecting a sample themselves. Others may not want to have an STI test sent to their home.
Below, we list some of the best in-person STI testing options.
- QuestDirect: This company may be best suited to pregnant people, as it offers a pregnancy STI test that can identify seven STIs. Results are available within 2–5 days, and follow-up care and medication are available.
- STDCheck: This company also sells panel tests. People can choose from a 9- or 10-panel test. It also provides an early HIV detection test, which can detect HIV 11 days after exposure. People can get their results within 2 days, and follow-up consultations are available.
Some people may feel nervous talking about their STI results and may not know which questions to ask. Below are some examples that may help people discuss with a healthcare professional about their results.
- Will the STI have any short- or long-term effects on my body?
- Are there ways of managing any side effects of the STI?
- Is there any treatment for the STI?
- Do I need to take any medication, and how long must I take it if I do?
- Does the medication cause any side effects?
- How long will I have to wait before I can have sex without transmitting the infection?
- How do I reduce my risk of contracting an infection in the future?
- Are any local centers or organizations providing free or low-cost condoms?
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about at-home STI tests.
Where can I get free STI testing?
Free or heavily discounted STI testing may be available in the U.S. People can search the CDC database to find free tests nearby.
Certain foundations and nonprofit organizations also provide free testing. For example, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation offers this in over 28 locations nationwide.
What happens if the result comes back positive?
If a person gets a positive result from an STI test, the next step is to receive medical advice. A doctor can suggest a treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and prevent the infection from passing to others.
A healthcare professional can also guide any other sexual health concerns and describe ways of reducing the risk of getting or passing on STIs.
How do at-home STD tests protect privacy?
This depends on the testing company’s security and privacy measures, including HIPAA compliance. Some use internet encryption and discreet packaging and destroy samples and data after the test is complete and the person has seen their results.
An STI test can easily link back to a person through their DNA, so using a reputable service that protects personal information and healthcare data is crucial.
What do home STD tests test for?
STD tests are available as single tests or multi-tests. This means they test for a single STI, such as HIV, syphilis, or gonorrhea, or multiple tests.
People can check the type of sample required and how long it takes to receive results. Some may also consider opting for a subscription if they must get tested frequently.
Is STD testing free in Alabama?
The Alabama Department of Health offers free STD testing through both home tests and county health departments. Alabama residents can request one free STD/HIV home specimen and laboratory testing kit every three months.
An Alabama resident could also visit a state-run, confidential STD clinic operated through the state’s county health departments. These clinics offer free testing and treatment for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, and HIV.
An at-home STI test may suit people needing convenient, discreet STI testing. Various companies offer test bundles, consultations, and retests, and the results are generally available within a few days.
Follow the company’s instructions carefully to increase the likelihood of an accurate result.
The University of North Georgia Testing Center may be able to serve as Test Administrators for various other tests required for licensure or certification exams (e.g., Real Estate, Universal Public Purchasing Certification).
Retest Policy
Please check with your institution.
What to Expect
✔ If you arrive fifteen minutes after your scheduled appointment time, you may not be allowed to test.
✔ Length of Exam: Varies
Register for Your Exam
Step One: Register and Pay
Please register and pay your $50 administration fee payable by credit/debit card. All testing fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Note: You must use a different web browser other than Internet Explorer.
Step Two: Schedule Your Appointment
Contact your testing center to schedule your appointment.
Step Three: Contact the Testing Company and/or Follow-Up With Us Before Your Exam
Please contact the testing company and provide them with our testing email and/or mailing address. It will be your responsibility to follow-up with us to verify that we have received the necessary exam materials prior to your appointment.
Establishing Connection...
You’re probably familiar with our campus’s big, high-profile buildings like Pa’ina (all things culinary), Ka’a’ike (IT, media, electronics) and Ho’okipa (admissions, counseling, human resources). You may not be familiar with a small building tucked between our Auto Body shop and the Pilina Building. It’s The Learning Center, or TLC, and it’s a hub of both student and community activity.
Our Pharmacy Tech program recently worked with CVS to convert the building’s reception area into a “mock pharmacy” for our students. Another room will soon be converted so that health care programs from other UH campuses, like Kapi’olani Community College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program and Kaua’i Community College’s Medical Assisting program, can be brought to Maui.
TLC houses our Testing Center with testing services for both our students and faculty. And as part of UH-MC’s commitment to be an integral part of our entire Maui Nui community, TLC also offers certification tests for a wide range of professionals. Chances are good that your auto mechanic, plumber, pharmacist, even the crane operators you see high overhead working on phone and electrical lines on your street and the TSA agents who screen you at the airport, took their certification exams at UH-MC. The list of professional certification tests offered at the center is extremely long and varied — from teachers to firefighters and EMTs, from EKG technicians to food safety officers and IT certified and many, many more.
We’re pleased to offer this service, especially since industry-validated certifications are gaining more and more importance. As a result of legislation passed in 2021, the state is recognizing and requiring reporting of these certifications. And most of the statewide workforce training initiatives at all education levels center around the Promising Credentials report that identifies these “industry-validated” credentials. In fact, UH is offering eligibility for $200 gift cards to UH alumnae and students who report their credentials. For more information on this, visit irc.hawaii.edu/faqs.php.
Melissa Yoshioka has been our testing coordinator for more than 10 years.
“We work with testing vendors nationwide,” explained Yoshioka, “and ours is the only testing facility in Maui County. So we always have people coming from Moloka’i, Lana’i, even Hawai’i Island and O’ahu when its facility’s schedule is full. We even have professionals who are vacationing on Maui and decide to take their certification or recertification exams here. Our small center can be easier to access and less stressful.”
The existing tests offered at the center are for health care professionals, specifically certified nurse assistants, or CNAs. This certification was added just this spring and directly addresses the critical shortage of nurses in our county. It’s particularly exciting to Yoshioka.
“We can now supply the test to our own nursing students. They go through their training here. Now they can get certified here,” said Yoshioka.
It’s obviously much more convenient to be able to schedule the exams upon completion of students’ training. And, being located on campus can save money.
“It’s very rewarding to be able to provide the certification testing service right on site for our students in all fields,” she added.
“A couple of years ago, we began working with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA),” Yoshioka said. “Most of the folks who come here for their tests are drone pilots, helicopter pilots, aeronautical instrument mechanics, and private pilots. We just recently administered our first ever commercial pilot’s test.”
Many fields require their professionals to be recertified periodically.
“Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified professionals, for example, have to take nine tests and need to be recertified every four and five years,” said Yoshioka.
With so many different tests to administer, Yoshioka is knowledgeable in a wide variety of methods as well as a wide variety of subjects.
“Some tests require booklets like the ones for crane operators — they have to do calculations that require them to look at illustrations and graphics,” she explained. “We also work closely with the Maui Fire Department. We do all their EMT licensing during the recruitment process and while they’re in training.”
We’re proud of Melissa and the way our Testing Center continues to grow. As she said, “We really help the community. We help people save a buck and a little bit of stress, too.” And relieving the stress is due mostly to Melissa and her commitment to our Testing Center.
To learn more about all the services provided at the testing center, please visit maui.hawaii.edu/tlc/home/testing/ or call (808) 984-3240 or email uhmctlc@hawaii.edu.
For complete information about UH-MC, see maui.hawaii.edu/. And, for fall 2023 registration information, visit maui.hawaii.edu/registration/#fall.
* Dr. Lui K. Hokoana is Chancellor of the University of Hawai’i Maui College. Ka’ana Mana’o, which means “sharing thoughts,” is scheduled to appear on the fourth Sunday of each month. It is prepared with assistance from UH-Maui College staff and is intended to provide the community of Maui County information about opportunities available through the college at its Kahului campus and its education centers.
About Testing
Surrounding each MacTech Boot Camp, Apple Certification Tests will be available. See specific city information for dates and times as some testing takes place prior to MacTech Boot Camp in a city. Only MacTech Boot Camp attendees may participate in this exam program, and you must be pre-registered for testing. No onsite testing registration.
Learn. Network. Get Certified.
- Take the time now to get the Apple Certification you’ve always wanted.
- Network with peers during the conference and the one-hour study session.
- Pass your exam and walk away satisfied & certified!
Why should I get certified?
- Having an Apple Certification is the best way to prove to your clients or employer that you possess the knowledge & know-how to be considered a “guru” in your Mac-related field of expertise.
- You can take any Apple Certification exam that is currently available at the time of testing.
- Our testing partner will moderate a group study session in the hour prior to the exam. Typically, discussions from test takers focus on discussions surrounding Mac OS X Support Essentials & Server Essentials.
How do I register for the exam session?
- If you haven’t already, you must first register for the MacTech Boot Camp at: https://www.mactech.com/bootcamp/registration
- Once you are registered for MacTech Boot Camp, you can use the below links to register for the testing in the selected city (below).
- Study for the exam prior to coming using the Apple recommended study guides.
- Arrive at the testing location which is likely different from the MacTech Boot Camp location at the check-in time indicated.
Space is limited so act now!
(Disclaimer: While extraordinarily valuable, MacTech Boot Camp sessions nor the Testing Study Group are not intended to prepare you specifically for Apple Certification exams. exam Proctor/Trainer may or may not have knowledge related to your specific exam. Study session is intended more as a study group or last minute study period. There will only be enough time to allow for one exam.)
Pricing
For $199 (in addition to the MacTech Boot Camp registration fee), you can take a proctored certification exam and take part in a group study session (value $299). Registration is separate for each city as indicated below.Schedule
You have time for a single exam. Any of the exams available at the time from Apple Authorized Testing Centers can be taken. Make sure you select the correct city for your registration.San Francisco Boot Camp
Testing by our partner at this location:
Registration Closed 
v.2 Consulting, Inc.
115 Sansome Street, Suite 1150
San Francisco CA 94104
415-989-9889There are two time slots for testing (which takes place on Tuesday, January 25th). You may choose either on a first-come, first-served basis. There is limited capacity for testing, so please make your choices quickly for greatest selection:
Testing Session 1:
9am: Check-in
9:10am-10:30am: Study session
10:30am-11am: exam login and setup
11am-1pm: ExamTesting Session 2:
2pm: Check-in
2:10pm-3:30pm: Study session
3:30pm-4pm: exam login and setup
4pm-6pm: ExamThe testing will take place at v.2’s offices. It’s a 10-15 minute walk, or a short cab ride, from the MacTech Boot Camp SF venue. Please realize that there is security in the building lobby where v.2’s offices are located, and you must be on the list of registered exam takers to go to the v.2 offices.
Dallas Boot Camp
Testing by our partner at this location:
Registration Closed 
MacAmerica Dallas / Ft. Worth:
2300 Valley View, Suite 205
Irving, Texas 75062
972-823-4000Testing takes place the day PRIOR to the event, on Tue, April 26th:
5:15-5:30pm: Check in
5:30-6:30pm: Proctor “moderated” study group
6:30-7:00pm: Get people registered for online testing, tests chosen
7:00-9:00pm: Test takenThe testing will take place at MacAmerica’s offices. It’s a 10 minute drive, or a short cab ride, from the MacTech Boot Camp Dallas venue (Hyatt Regency DFW). If you do not have a car, taxi service can be called for both directions.
Boston Boot Camp
Testing by our partner at this location:
Registration Closed 
Future Media Concepts – Boston
One Kendall Square
Bldg 300, 2nd Fl
Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: 617-621-1155Testing takes place the day PRIOR to the event, on Tue, May 17th:
2:00-2:15pm: Check in
2:15-3:30pm: Proctor “moderated” study group
3:30-4:00pm: Get people registered for online testing, tests chosen
4:00-6:00pm: Test takenThe testing will take place at FMC’s offices. It’s a 5 minute drive or 20 minute walk from the MacTech Boot Camp Boston venue (Royal Sonesta Hotel). Taxi service can be called for both directions.
Los Angeles Boot Camp
For a variety of scheduling and logistical reasons, testing is not available in conjunction with this event. That said, MacTech recommends that you check into Creative Resources (in Costa Mesa) or v.2 Consulting in Studio City for their certification offerings.
Not available. Chicago Boot Camp
Testing by our partner at this location:
Click to Register 
MacSpecialist – Chicago
500 N Wells St.
Chicago, Illinois 60654
Phone: 312-755-0000Testing takes place the day PRIOR to the event, on Tue, August 30th:
2:00-2:15pm: Check in
2:15-3:30pm: Proctor “moderated” study group
3:30-4:00pm: Get people registered for online testing, tests chosen
4:00-6:00pm: Test takenThe testing will take place at MacSpecialist’s offices. It’s approximately 1.5 miles (cab ride or walk) from the MacTech Boot Camp Chicago venue (Allegro Hotel).
Available Apple Certification Exams:
At each location, the following exams are available. Remember, typically study group discussion surrounds the “Essentials” exams.
Mac Integration Basics exam [9L0-406]
Mac OS X Support Essentials v10.6 [9L0-403]
Mac OS X Server Essentials v10.6 [9L0-510]
Mac OS X Deployment v10.6 [9L0-623]
Mac OS X Directory Services v10.6 [9L0-624]
Mac OS X Security and Mobility 10.6 exam [9L0-625]
ACTC v10.6 Recertification exam [9L0-511]
Xsan 2 Administration [9L0-622]Additional exams may be available. Contact us for more information.
In order to be eligible for Alabama teacher certification, the Alabama State Department of Education requires students in undergraduate and Alternative Master's teacher education programs to complete a series of tests. These tests evaluate students' mastery of content knowledge in a specific certification area (Praxis Subject Assessments); and readiness to teach (Educative Teacher Performance Assessment ( edTPA)). These tests are taken at different points throughout the UAB Teacher Education Program. Please consult the guide below to confirm when the tests should be taken.
Praxis Subject Assessments
About the Praxis Subject Assessments
In order to receive teacher certification from the Alabama State Department of Education, undergraduate and Alternative Master's students must receive a passing score on the Praxis Subject Assessment in their given certification area. Praxis Subject Assessments are administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS).
When do I take this test?
Undergraduate Students: (Prior to Student Teaching)
Undergraduate students must receive a passing score as defined by the Alabama State Department of Education on the Praxis Subject Assessment(s) in their given certification area prior to starting student teaching.
* Students pursuing certification in Elementary/Early Childhood are also required to pass the Praxis Teaching practicing prior to beginning student teaching.
Alternative Master's Students: (Prior to Admission)
Alternative Masters’ students must receive a passing score as defined by the Alabama State Department of Education on the Praxis Subject Assessments(s) in their given certification area prior to beginning coursework.
* Students pursuing certification in Early Childhood Education or Elementary Education are required to pass the Praxis Teaching practicing prior to beginning student teaching.
What is a Passing Score?
Qualifying score requirements can be found on the ETS website. To locate the qualifying score for your certification area, follow the steps below.
- Navigate to https://www.ets.org/praxis/al/al_teacher_ed/
- Scroll to the bottom of the page to the section titled Tests Required for Specific Certification Areas
- Select your certification area and look under the column titled Qualifying Score
Study Resources
Visit the ETS website for information about Praxis study resources.
Register for the Praxis Subject Assessment(s)
Educative Performance Assessment (edTPA)
About the Educative Performance Assessment (edTPA)
edTPA is a pre-service assessment process designed by educators that includes a review of a teacher candidate’s authentic teaching materials as the culmination of a teaching and learning process that documents and demonstrates each candidate’s ability to effectively teach his/her subject matter to all students. Candidates must receive a passing score on the assessment as defined by the Alabama State Department of Education.
When do I take this test?
Undergraduate Students: (edTPA: During Student Teaching)
Undergraduate students must receive a passing score on the edTPA as defined by the Alabama State Department of Education during student teaching.
Alternative Master's Students: (edTPA: During Student Teaching)
Alternative Master's students must receive a passing score as defined by the Alabama State Department of Education during student teaching.
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.
