If You’re Considering Getting A Global Certification As A Communication Professional, Here are some FAQs
Experienced communications practitioners can now have their skills acknowledged with a global certification as a Communication Management Professional (CMP) or Strategic Communication Management Professional (SCMP).
Widely used in other professions, this certification process tells peers, colleagues and clients that they are working with an experienced and competent communicator. Plus, certification shows the world that you are committed to keeping your skills and knowledge up to date.
If you are a member of an IABC chapter or a member-at-large, and are considering taking the CMP/SCMP exam, we have provided some responses to common questions below.
If you have further queries around taking the CMP/SCMP certification exam, please feel free to contact Pat Frey, pafrey2@gmail.com, Certification Chair for the Heritage Region.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. I am not a member of IABC. Can I apply for certification?
Yes, the CMP/SCMP certifications are governed by the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC) and are open to any person who meets the eligibility criteria. You do not have to be an IABC member to apply, however, IABC members are eligible to receive a discount on the application fee. More information about GCCC certifications is available on the GCCC website.
2. I am an IABC member, but I am not a chapter member. How do I go about applying for certification?
You should complete and submit your online application to the GCCC. If you cannot attend a scheduled exam, the Heritage Region will work with you to set up an exam. Contact Pat Frey, pafrey2@gmail.com, who heads Certification for the Heritage Region.
3. How much time should I allocate for preparing my certification application?
Whether you are applying for the CMP or SCMP, we suggest you allocate at least four weeks to prepare your application. You will need to compile documents to reference/evidence the activities that support your application. You will also need to allow enough time for the GCCC to verify your application, so it is best you give them ample time before the scheduled exam date. The online application form is available on the GCCC website. The review period for applications is 30 days.
4. How much lead time should there be between the application approval and the examination date?
This will depend on you. The sooner you submit your application, the sooner your application is approved. The earlier the application is approved, the more time you have to prepare for the exam. Ideally, your application should be approved within at least two weeks of the exam.
5. How much time should I devote to prepare for the exam?
Again, this is largely dependent on you and which exam you are taking. Ideally, 3-4 weeks should suffice and allow you to prep for the exam. Study resources are available on the GCCC website. Study groups may be available. Reach out to pafrey2@gmail.com.
6. If I don’t pass the certification exam, what options do I have to retake it?
Your exam result is reported as a “pass” or “fail,” only. You will not receive a percentage or numerical grade. If you fail the exam, you will receive a report showing how you performed in each domain to help you prepare to attempt the exam again. If you fail the exam, you are eligible to retake it for an exam registration fee of $100. If you fail a second time, you must wait a minimum of six months before a third and final attempt.
7. There are no exams hosted in my city in the near future – what do I do?
We can arrange for an exam in your city even if it’s just for one candidate. Please email us with your preferred month for sitting for the exam, your location and for which certification exam.
8. How much does it cost to take the exam?
The costs associated with applying for and taking the CMP or SCMP certification are the same regardless of where you live. More information about what it costs to apply for and take the certification exam is available on the GCCC website.
9. Are the exams in-person only or are they available as online exams?
In order to achieve ANSI/ISO accreditation on the CMP certification, the GCCC was under obligation to conduct in-person exams only. With the achievement of ANSI/ISO accreditation on the CMP certification in August 2020, and the ANSI application on the SCMP certification underway, the GCCC can now investigate the administration of online exams.
10. Who can host a certification exam?
Any IABC chapter, region, independent organization or individual can apply to host a GCCC certification exam. To apply to be considered as an exam host, complete this application.
11. What is the examination host required to do?
The examination host is required to commit to the following:
- Complete and submit the application to host
- Identify one exam administrator or contact person to communicate with the certification program manager throughout the process
- Procure a suitable hosting venue, i.e. computer lab, conference room, large office
- Provide reliable, accessible internet connectivity to all examinees (examinees must use the internet connection provided)
- Provide the names of two proctors who will complete proctor training
- Adhere to all GCCC Policies and Procedures and ISO17024 standards
- Help with marketing of certification and recruitment of candidates.
For more information, click here or contact Pat Frey, pafrey2@gmail.com, Certification Chair for the Heritage Region.