Professional Development News

AICP Exam Updates

The Pilot vs. the Regular Exam

Recently, there have been some options relative to the AICP Exam –

• The Regular Exam.  If you signed up by August 31^st to take the Standard exam, you will need to take the exam by September 30th.  This option was best for people who purchased an exam transfer during a previous exam cycle.

The dates for the registration for the regular exam to be offered in 2027 have not yet been posted.

• The Pilot Exam.  The pilot exam is similar to the standard exam, EXCEPT that its questions are based on the recent job analysis survey and will be used to help develop the 2027 exam. The nine topics in the current content outline will be the same for the pilot exam. The sub content, however, may be different. Those questions will not be graded. They may be questions for future exams. 

• Because the pilot exam questions must be analyzed and reviewed—and a cut score established—results will be delayed by approximately 12-14 weeks. 
• The Pilot Exam requires that you register between October 1-30 (Noon CT), and the test will be offered between November 2 and 28^th.

• Other Elements.
  • In 2026, there are three versions of the standard exam in the regular testing window—allowing members to take the exam up to three times, with 30 days between each attempt—and one version of the pilot exam.
  • Members who pass the regular AICP exam or the pilot exam will be considered "AICP Candidates".
  • The standard exam costs $305, while the pilot exam is offered at a reduced fee of $100.

AICP Exam Prep Resources

• Questions about the exam?  APA Staff offer Office Hours throughout the year.  The last meeting in 2026 will occur on September 9^th from 12:00 to 1:00 PT. Click here to register.  (A new schedule will be developed in 2027.)  If you have any questions about the AICP exam (Standard or Pilot) or your exam transfer status, email [email protected] with questions (include your APA ID).
• The AICP Certification Guide should be consulted for an outline of each step toward certification. You will need to confirm that you have read it when registering for the exam.
• Also, be sure to get familiar with the AICP Code of Ethics? You will be asked to affirm that you agree to the code when registering.
• Review the One Path to AICP page to make sure you understand any additional requirements. 
• Exam prep study resources – check out the resources APA has identified to review in anticipation of the exam: Step 2: Take the Exam.  Exam candidates are encouraged to review all available materials.  The resources highlighted under Tip #4 include practice exams and other study tools developed by Texas A&M University.
• If you want to be part of an APA-WA study group, please reach out to The Chapter PDO, Nancy Eklund at [email protected].

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