What job titles are considered HR roles?

HR experience may be classified directly—working in an HR role—or indirectly, by consulting, educating or researching HR practices linked specifically to human resource management. If you have specific questions about your experience or which certification is right for you, review the eligibility requirements or contact certification@shrm.org for additional assistance.

Will certification add to my credibility?

Achieving accreditation is important to SHRM because it provides SHRM-certified professionals and their employers with the assurance that SHRM’s credentials meet the high standards expected and needed to advance the HR profession.

What is the difference between SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP?

The SHRM-CP credential is designed for HR professionals who are engaged primarily in operational roles—implementing policies, serving as the HR point of contact for staff and stakeholders, and/or performing day-to-day HR functions. If this is your focus, the SHRM-CP is likely your best option.

The SHRM-SCP certification is designed for HR professionals at a senior level who operate primarily in a strategic role—developing policies and strategies, overseeing the execution of HR operations, analyzing performance metrics, and/or contributing to the alignment of HR strategies to organizational goals.

If I earn the SHRM-CP, when can I earn my SHRM-SCP?

If you meet the eligibility requirements to sit for the SHRM-SCP exam, you can apply for the SHRM-SCP exam. Learn more about the eligibility requirements. 

How is the SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP different from PHR/SPHR?

The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications are different from the HRCI credentials in several ways. Ultimately, the difference lies in focus and backing. Focus SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications are behavioral competency-based and focused not only on affirming an HR professional’s knowledge of HR policy and practice but also on their ability to apply that knowledge in the workplace. This is what makes it a powerful tool for employers. 

Backing SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications are the only credentials backed by SHRM, which means you have the power of the SHRM brand behind you (an organization with over seven decades of serving the needs of HR professionals and advancing the practice of human resource management). When people see the SHRM name after your title, they know they’re dealing with a level of expertise that can be matched by no other. As an SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential holder, you have just taken your expertise to the next level.

Is the SHRM exam included with this course?

This course does not include the final exam or exam fee. Practice exams are included, however.

Do I need to purchase the SHRM Learning System separately?

No. The SHRM Learning System is included with this program. There are no additional costs.

What is the passing score for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam?

The passing score and all candidate results on the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP are reported as scaled scores. The range of possible scores for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams is 120 to 200; all candidates who pass the exam receive the maximum score of 200. The number of questions that have to be answered correctly varies depending on which form of the CP or SCP examination a candidate takes. The passing score is equal to a scale score of 200.

If I just barely miss the SHRM-SCP, do I get the SHRM-CP based on my score?

No. The SHRM-SCP and SHRM-CP exams are two separate and different exams. If a candidate does not pass the SHRM-SCP exam, they do not earn an SHRM-CP credential.

What is the recertification process?

1. Earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) within a 3-year recertification period that ends on the last day of the credential holder’s birth month. 
2. Retake the certification exam at the end of the 3-year recertification period.

If you plan on retaking the exam to renew your certification please contact certification@shrm.org for additional assistance. Learn more about the recertification process at shrmcertification.org/recertify.

Can I earn recertification credits taking this course?

If you have already earned the SHRM Certification, you can obtain up to 36 professional development credits if you are attending this program for professional development only.

How long is the course?

12 Weeks with 3-hour sessions.

How long should I commit to studying? How many hours a day?

While your study efforts will be dependent on your knowledge of the content, we generally recommend that you study an overall minimum of 60 hours to adequately prepare for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam. Your time could be reduced if you feel comfortable with a particular area. 

One of the unique tools within the Learning System is a SmartStudy tool that provides you with a detailed plan to study based on your current experience and knowledge since the recommended time will vary based on those factors.

Is the SHRM Learning System included in the price of the instructor-led course or do I have to buy the self-study version if I want these tools?

Yes, each of the learning options utilizes the SHRM Learning System. The instructor-led participant will receive the additional guidance of a qualified instructor in a structured classroom environment and the ability to network with peers. 

Is it possible to prepare for the SHRM-SCP using only the BASK?

The SHRM BASK was developed to identify the behavioral and technical competencies which are the foundation of effective HR job performance. It does not teach or thoroughly explain the concepts.

What percentage should I get in the LS questions before I’m “ready” for the exam?

You should strive for 80%, but be careful that you’re not answering the questions correctly from memory. One way to ensure you truly understand the concepts is to take the other level’s post-test; you will receive a unique set of questions on the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP tests. 

Are the practice questions like the actual exam questions?

The SHRM Learning System and the certification exams include both knowledge and situational judgment questions. The formatting is similar, however, they are developed by two separate entities and so the tests will not be exactly the same. The practice exam consists of items that have previously been used on actual SHRM certification exams and are scored in the same manner as those exams.

Are there any other types of resources to practice test questions?

There are sample exam questions available in the certification handbook, within the SHRM Learning System, and on learnhrm.shrm.org/practice/.

How long after studying for the program should I wait to take the exam?

You also will want to balance the retention of information leading up to your exam, therefore we do not recommend a large gap in time between studying and sitting for the exam. 

We recommend that you ensure that your study plan provides time for you to take the post-test and then close any identified knowledge gaps. After the additional review, we recommend you take the practice exam, which consists of items that have previously been used on actual SHRM certification exams and are scored in the same manner as those exams.

Do you get a break during the four hours of testing?

No breaks are scheduled during the exam. Candidates who have to leave the testing room to take a break will not be given extra time on the exam. Candidates may not leave the testing facility during a break. Learn more about taking the exam by downloading the SHRM Certification Handbook.

How soon do you know if you passed or not?

1. Candidates will get a preliminary result immediately after the test. Official scores will come about 3-4 weeks after the close of the testing window. 

If I don’t pass the exam, how long do I have to retake the exam?

Candidates who are unsuccessful on the exam may take it again during a future exam window. Testing in the same window is not permitted. Candidates who wish to retest are required to apply as a new candidate, which includes remittance of the full examination fee. There is no limit to the number of times a candidate can re-apply and test.

How do I register for the exam?

To register for the exam you will need to complete an application through SHRM.  You can start this process by visiting https://www.shrm.org/credentials/certification/exam-options-fees

What if I already own the SHRM Learning System?

Contact us at mrogers@georgiasouthern.edu or (912) 478-6005 to find the best learning options for you.

Can the SHRM Learning System be shared?

No, the SHRM Learning System is licensed to an individual user and cannot be transferred or shared.  

How do I attend a class?

You have either an option to register for and attend face-to-face sessions in Savannah or a virtual class.

Can I ask the instructor questions during the online sessions?

Yes, there will be opportunities to ask direct questions as well as a chat function so you can list questions so the instructor or other classmates can respond.

My employer won’t help pay for my certification. What alternative funding options are available?

1. Tuition reimbursement: While some companies will not reimburse for training materials, they may offer tuition reimbursement.
2. Loans: For professional training and trade certificate courses. Get the money you need, plus features that can help make your education possible. A career training student loan can help you build credit, and Sallie Mae will help you track it with free access to your FICO^® Scores, updated quarterly. Visit the Sallie Mae website for more information.
3. SHRM scholarships: SHRM offers various scholarships for professional development and certification. For more information, visit the SHRM Scholarship site.