SHRM Exam Dates 2024

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) provides essential certifications for HR professionals, including the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). These certifications are critical for validating the knowledge and skills of HR practitioners.

As candidates prepare for these exams, understanding the exam options, fees, preparation strategies, and implications of failing the exam is crucial. This article outlines the SHRM exam dates for 2024 and provides comprehensive information on the certification process.

Exam Options and Fees – SHRM Certification

Types of SHRM Exams

SHRM offers two primary certification exams: the SHRM-CP and the SHRM-SCP. The SHRM-CP is designed for HR professionals who are engaged in operational roles, while the SHRM-SCP is aimed at those in senior HR positions who are involved in strategic decision-making.

Both exams assess a candidate’s knowledge of HR principles, practices, and competencies, ensuring that certified professionals are equipped to handle the complexities of human resource management.

Where to Take the SHRM Exams

Candidates can take the SHRM certification exams at designated testing centers or opt for remote proctoring. The exams are computer-based, allowing candidates to complete them in a controlled environment. This flexibility is beneficial for candidates who may have scheduling conflicts or prefer to take the exam in a familiar setting.

Testing Windows

For 2024, the SHRM certification exams will be offered during two testing windows:

• First Testing Window: May 1, 2024 – July 15, 2024
  • Applications accepted from January 3, 2024
  • Early-bird application deadline: March 31, 2024
  • Standard application deadline: May 12, 2024
• Second Testing Window: December 1, 2024 – February 15, 2025
  • Applications accepted from June 3, 2024
  • Early-bird application deadline: September 11, 2024
  • Standard application deadline: November 9, 2024

These windows provide candidates with ample opportunities to schedule their exams based on their preparation timelines.

Exam Fees

The cost to take the SHRM certification exams varies based on the SHRM membership status. As of 2024, the fees are as follows:

• SHRM Members: $300
• Non-Members: $400

Additionally, candidates may incur costs for study materials, preparation courses, and other resources. Investing in quality preparation can significantly enhance the likelihood of passing the exam.

Take the SHRM Certification Exam

To take the SHRM exam, candidates must complete the application process during the designated application periods. This process includes submitting proof of eligibility, such as educational qualifications and work experience in HR.

Once approved, candidates can schedule their exams within the specified testing window. It is important to prepare thoroughly, as the exams are designed to assess both knowledge and practical application of HR concepts.

SHRM Exam Preparation: How to Pass Your Exam

Preparation is crucial for success on the SHRM certification exams. Candidates who invest time and effort into studying are more likely to pass. According to SHRM, candidates who use the SHRM Learning System and the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK) have a significantly higher pass rate.

Specifically, candidates using these resources are 36% more likely to pass the SHRM-CP exam and 42% more likely to pass the SHRM-SCP exam compared to those who do not. Learn the best way to preparing for your SHRM exams.

How to Prepare

1. Utilize the SHRM Learning System: The SHRM Learning System is a comprehensive resource that includes interactive learning modules. This system is designed to align with the SHRM BASK, ensuring that candidates cover all necessary content areas.
2. Engage in Self-Study: Candidates can create a self-study plan that includes regular review sessions, practice exams, and quizzes. Setting specific goals for each study session can help maintain focus and motivation.
3. Participate in Instructor-Led Courses: For those who prefer structured learning, instructor-led courses are available both in-person and online. These courses provide valuable insights from experienced instructors and allow for interaction with peers.
4. Join Study Groups: Collaborating with other candidates can enhance the learning experience. Study groups provide opportunities for discussion, sharing resources, and addressing challenging topics together.
5. Practice with Sample Questions: Taking practice exams is an effective way to gauge readiness. Candidates should familiarize themselves with the format and types of questions they will encounter on the actual exam. You can access SHRM-CP exam practice questions and SHRM-SCP exam practice questions.

Online Preparation Resources

Prepsaret is one of the best online resources for SHRM-CP test prep. It offers a variety of study materials tailored specifically for SHRM certification, including:

• Comprehensive Study Guides: Prepsaret provides in-depth SHRM study guides that cover all aspects of the SHRM BASK, ensuring candidates have a thorough understanding of the content.
• Practice Questions and Explanations: Candidates can access a wide range of practice questions, along with detailed explanations for each answer. This helps reinforce learning and clarify any misunderstandings.
• Flexible Learning Options: Prepsaret offers both self-paced and instructor-led courses, allowing candidates to choose the format that best suits their learning style.
• Performance Tracking: The platform includes tools to track progress, enabling candidates to monitor their strengths and weaknesses as they prepare for the exam.

Related Post: SHRM Certification Courses Online

What If You Don’t Pass the SHRM Exams

Failing the SHRM certification exam can be disappointing, but it is not the end of the road. Candidates who do not pass the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exams have the opportunity to retake them. The first step after failing is to review the exam results and identify areas for improvement.

SHRM provides candidates with a performance report that breaks down their scores by content area, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. Candidates must wait 45 days before retaking the SHRM exam. This waiting period allows for adequate preparation and review of the material.

During this time, candidates should focus on their weaker areas and consider utilizing additional study resources or preparation courses. Engaging with study groups or seeking guidance from mentors can also be beneficial. It is essential to approach the retake with a positive mindset.

Many successful HR professionals have faced setbacks in their certification journey. Learning from the experience and enhancing study strategies can lead to success on the next attempt. If you want to prepare for your SHRM-SCP exam, you can use online SHRM-SCP test prep to help you.

Importance of Obtaining Your SHRM Certification

Obtaining SHRM HR certification is a significant milestone for HR professionals:

• It validates expertise and knowledge in the field, enhancing career prospects and earning potential.
• According to the 2022 SHRM HR Careers study, certified HR professionals earn approximately 35% more than their non-certified peers.
• Additionally, many employers prefer candidates with SHRM certification, viewing it as a mark of professionalism and commitment to the HR field.
• The certification also opens doors to new career opportunities. Many organizations require or prefer SHRM certification for HR roles, especially in competitive job markets.
• Certified professionals often have access to exclusive networking opportunities and resources through SHRM, which can further enhance their careers.

To maintain SHRM certification, professionals must recertify every three years. This can be accomplished by earning Professional Development Credits (PDCs) through various activities, such as attending workshops, webinars, and conferences, or by participating in continuing education courses.

The recertification process requires a total of 60 PDCs for SHRM-CP holders and 60 PDCs for SHRM-SCP holders. Activities that qualify for PDCs include:

• Educational Programs: Attending HR-related conferences, seminars, or workshops can earn PDCs.
• Self-Directed Learning: Engaging in self-study through books, articles, or online courses can also contribute to PDCs.
• Professional Contributions: Serving as a speaker or instructor at HR events, or contributing to HR publications, can earn PDCs.
• Volunteer Work: Involvement in HR-related volunteer activities, such as serving on boards or committees, can also count toward PDCs.

Keeping track of PDCs and ensuring compliance with recertification requirements is essential for maintaining SHRM certification. 

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