To achieve success in the competitive field of human resources, obtaining the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification is a significant milestone.
This credential, awarded by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), validates the expertise and knowledge of HR professionals. However, aspiring candidates often wonder about the passing score required for this exam.
The SHRM-CP exam is designed to assess a candidate’s understanding of HR principles and their ability to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios.
In this article, we will explore the passing score for the SHRM-CP, how the passing is calculated, the content areas tested, the exam structure, preparation strategies, and more, providing a comprehensive guide for those looking to embark on this certification journey.
Learn: How to Register For SHRM
Content Areas Tested on the SHRM-CP Exam
The SHRM-CP exam evaluates candidates across several critical content areas essential for effective human resource management.
The exam consists of 134 multiple-choice questions, which include both scored and unscored items. The primary content areas covered in the exam are:
- People (18%): This area focuses on talent acquisition, employee engagement, and performance management.
- Leadership & Navigation (17%): Questions in this section assess a candidate’s ability to lead and manage organizational change effectively.
- Business (16.5%): This component evaluates understanding of business operations and the impact of HR on organizational success.
- Interpersonal (16.5%): This area tests communication skills and the ability to build relationships within the workplace.
- Workplace (14%): Questions here revolve around workplace culture, diversity, and compliance with labor laws.
These content areas are designed to ensure that HR professionals possess a well-rounded understanding of the various aspects of human resource management.
Structure of the SHRM-CP Exam
The SHRM-CP exam is structured to provide a comprehensive assessment of a candidate’s HR knowledge and skills. The exam consists of 134 questions, which are divided into two sections.
Candidates have a total of 3 hours and 40 minutes to complete the exam, with each section lasting up to 1 hour and 50 minutes.
The questions are a mix of stand-alone knowledge-based items and scenario-based situational judgment items. The latter requires candidates to apply their knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios, demonstrating their judgment and decision-making skills.
Notably, 24 of the questions are unscored field-test items used for future exam development, ensuring that candidates are evaluated fairly based on their performance on the scored questions.
SHRM-CP Passing Score
To pass the SHRM-CP exam, candidates must achieve a scaled score of 200 points or more. The scoring system ranges from 120 to 200, with 200 being the maximum score achievable.
The raw score, calculated based on the number of correct answers, is transformed into a scaled score to account for variations in difficulty across different exam forms.
Importantly, guessing is not penalized, which means candidates can answer questions without fear of losing points for incorrect answers.
This scoring approach allows for a fair assessment of a candidate’s competency and knowledge in human resource management, reflecting the level of expertise required for certification.
What is the Process for Calculating the SHRM-CP Passing Score?
The process for calculating the SHRM-CP passing score involves several key steps that ensure a fair and standardized assessment of candidates’ knowledge and competencies in human resource management.
Scoring Methodology
- Raw Score Calculation: After completing the SHRM-CP exam, candidates receive a raw score based on the number of questions they answered correctly. The exam consists of 134 questions, of which 24 are unscored field-test items used for future exam development. Only 110 questions contribute to the final score.
- Scaled Score Conversion: The raw score is then converted into a scaled score that ranges from 120 to 200. This scaling process is essential as it accounts for variations in difficulty across different exam forms. The purpose of scaling is to ensure that scores are comparable regardless of when or which version of the exam was taken.
- Passing Score Determination: The passing score for the SHRM-CP exam is set at a scaled score of 200. This score reflects the minimum level of competency expected from HR professionals performing operational roles. The passing score is determined using the Modified Angoff method, a widely recognized standard-setting procedure that involves expert panels evaluating the exam questions and determining the level of knowledge required to answer them correctly.
Importance of the Passing Score
Achieving a passing score of 200 indicates that a candidate has demonstrated sufficient knowledge and skills in the core areas of HR management, which include people, organization, workplace, strategy, and technology.
This score is not just a numerical value; it represents a benchmark for professional competency in the HR field.
Understanding the process of calculating the SHRM-CP passing score is crucial for candidates preparing for the exam.
By knowing how raw scores are converted to scaled scores and the significance of the passing score, candidates can better focus their study efforts and approach the exam with confidence.
Read more: What are SHRM-CP Scores?
How Does the Modified Angoff Method Work in Setting the SHRM-CP Passing Score?
The Modified Angoff method is a widely used approach for setting passing scores on certification exams, including the SHRM-CP.
This method ensures that the cut score reflects the minimum competency required for candidates in the field of human resources. Here’s how the process works:
1. Formation of a Panel of Experts
A group of subject matter experts (SMEs) is assembled. This panel typically includes individuals with extensive knowledge and experience in HR practices. The experts are tasked with defining what constitutes a “minimally competent candidate” (MCC) for the SHRM-CP exam.
2. Evaluation of Test Items
The SMEs review each exam question and estimate the percentage of minimally competent candidates they believe would answer each question correctly.
This estimation process requires the experts to consider the difficulty of each item and the knowledge required to answer it correctly.
3. Consensus Building
After the initial ratings, the panel discusses their estimates, addressing any significant discrepancies in their evaluations. This discussion aims to reach a consensus on the probability that a minimally competent candidate would answer each item correctly.
The SMEs may go through multiple rounds of rating and discussion to refine their estimates and improve inter-rater reliability.
4. Calculation of Mean Scores
Once consensus is achieved, the mean probability scores for each test item are calculated. These scores represent the panel’s collective judgment regarding the difficulty of each question.
5. Setting the Cut Score
The final step involves aggregating the mean scores to determine the overall cut score for the exam.
The cut score is set at a level that reflects the expected performance of a minimally competent candidate, ensuring that those who pass have demonstrated sufficient knowledge and skills in HR.
6. Validation and Adjustment
The cut score may be validated against actual test data to ensure it accurately reflects candidate performance. If necessary, adjustments can be made based on statistical analysis and feedback from the testing process.
How to Prepare for the SHRM-CP Exam
Preparing for the SHRM-CP exam requires a strategic approach to ensure candidates are well-equipped to tackle the diverse content areas. Here are some effective preparation strategies:
- Study the SHRM Learning System: The SHRM Learning System is a comprehensive resource that provides in-depth coverage of the exam content areas, including interactive learning modules and practice questions.
- Take Practice Exams: Engaging in practice tests such as the ones offered by our SHRM-CP Test Prep can help familiarize candidates with the exam format and types of questions, aiding in time management and reducing test anxiety.
- Join Study Groups: Collaborating with peers can enhance understanding of complex topics and provide support throughout the preparation process.
- Attend Workshops or Courses: Many organizations offer SHRM-CP preparation courses that provide structured learning and expert guidance.
- Schedule Regular Study Sessions: Consistency is key. Setting aside dedicated study time each week can help reinforce learning and improve retention.
By employing these strategies, candidates can enhance their chances of passing the SHRM-CP exam and obtaining their certification.
Related post: What is the Best Way to Prepare for the SHRM?
Importance of SHRM-CP Certification
Obtaining the SHRM-CP certification is not just about passing an exam; it represents a significant achievement in an HR professional’s career. The certification is recognized globally and demonstrates a commitment to the HR profession and ongoing professional development.
HR professionals with the SHRM-CP credential are often viewed as more competent and knowledgeable by employers, which can lead to better job opportunities and career advancement.
Additionally, the certification provides access to a network of certified professionals and resources that can further enhance one’s career in human resources.
Try out: SHRM-CP Free Questions
Recertification Requirements
To maintain the SHRM-CP certification, professionals must recertify every three years. This process ensures that certified individuals stay current with the latest HR practices and trends.
The recertification requirements include earning at least 60 professional development credits (PDCs) through various activities, such as attending conferences, participating in workshops, or completing online courses.
By fulfilling these requirements, SHRM-CP holders demonstrate their dedication to continuous learning and professional growth, further strengthening their expertise in the field of human resources.
FAQS
What is the Pass rate for SHRM-CP?
The SHRM-CP exam pass rate varies, but research shows that candidates who spend 81 to 120 hours preparing have the highest pass rates. Overall, pass rates are quite consistent and high for those who prepare for 41 to 200 hours.
However, pass rates start to decline for those who spend more than 200 hours preparing, suggesting that overpreparing can be counterproductive. The current SHRM-CP pass rate is around 67%.
How Do You Know If You Passed the SHRM-CP Exam?
To determine if you passed the SHRM-CP exam, you will receive your official results approximately four weeks after testing. An email will direct you to access your score report through the My Resources tab on the SHRM website.
If you pass, the score report will include your digital certificate. A passing score is at least 200 points out of a possible range, with your raw score reflecting the number of correct answers.
If you have not received your results within this timeframe, consider contacting SHRM for assistance
Check out: Does SHRM-CP Expire
Is the SHRM-CP Test Hard?
The SHRM-CP test is considered challenging by many candidates. The exam features situational judgment questions that often lack straightforward answers, requiring a deep understanding of HR concepts and practices.
Reports indicate that successful candidates typically invest between 41 to 120 hours in preparation, with a pass rate around 67%.
While some individuals have passed without extensive studying, most find that thorough preparation is essential for success.
Overall, the difficulty level varies based on prior experience and knowledge, making it crucial for candidates to assess their readiness before attempting the exam.
Related: How Hard is the SHRM Test?