Overview of the Accreditation Process

Regions | Preparing for Accreditation | Overview of the Accreditation Process
Application Forms | Fees

Thank you for your interest in ICAPGen's accreditation process!

ICAPGen now offers three testing levels, which recognize the achievements of applicants as they strive to attain the accreditation credential. This program allows applicants more time to prepare for the written exam and offers a choice as to when the exam is scheduled.

The accreditation requirements remain the same—a quality four-generation research report followed by an eight-hour written exam and an oral review. The new levels program segments the accreditation process into three distinct levels and allows an applicant more time to prepare for each level. The three levels are:

• Level 1—the four-generation application project
• Level 2—four sections of the written exam that test knowledge of record content and usage
• Level 3—two sections of the written exam that test skills in data analysis, research planning, methodology, and report writing, with the oral exam following.

To view a synopsis of the three testing levels, including the fees and requirements associated with each of them, please click here.

Attainment of any level results in public recognition. Successful candidates will receive a congratulatory letter of achievement and will be announced on the ICAPGen website and in the ICAPGen newsletter. The AG credential is awarded after an applicant successfully completes Level 3.

Previously, applicants whose application projects achieved a rating of 90% or better were scheduled immediately for the next quarterly testing session. Applicants would be expected to complete the entire eight-hour exam on that date. Under the new levels program, applicants have more options.

Applicants who complete Level 1 or Level 2 decide when to apply for the next level. Applicants could choose to apply immediately, wait for a few months before applying, or remain at the current level. Under the new program, applicants may apply at any time to take the next level. But if they do not apply within three years of passing their current level, they must retake the current level before proceeding to the next level. Applicants who wish to take the entire written exam in one 8-hour day may do so by applying for both Levels 2 and 3 at the same time.

This program will begin with the first quarterly testing period of 2012. Current applicants may choose whether to remain in the former program (one-year completion date, old fee structure, no levels) or enter the new program (new time frame, new fee structure, levels).

Regions | Preparing for Accreditation | Overview of the Accreditation Process
Application Forms | Fees