The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) administers the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) examination. This exam tests the skills and knowledge that an administrative professional would need to know in order to be competent at their job.
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CAP Exam Eligibility
To be eligible for the CAP exam, you must meet the following qualifications, which will differ depending on your level of education:
- No Degree: You must have accumulated at least 7,072 hours of relevant work experience.
- Associate Degree: You must have accumulated at least 5,304 hours of relevant work experience.
- Bachelor Degree: You must have accumulated at least 3,536 hours of relevant work experience.
The hour requirements are based on a 34-hour work week (1,768 hours per year).
CAP Exam Outline
The CAP exam contains approximately 200-225 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of 3 hours.
The exam is split into six content domains, and each domain is split into multiple performance outcomes (POs). Performance outcomes are measurable competencies that are based on the knowledge and abilities of a professional administrator.
1. Organizational Culture and Leadership (20%)
The questions in this domain are split into nine performance outcomes:
- Management models within organizations and individuals’ leadership styles
- Effective interactions with stakeholders of an organization
- Team dynamics within organizations
- Business and strategic planning
- Benefits and strategies of professional development
2. Business Communication and Deliverables (16%)
The questions in this domain are split into eight performance outcomes:
- Concepts and applications of communication
- Techniques of presenting information
- Proofreading, editing, and finishing documents
3. Software, Data, and the Internet (10%)
The questions in this domain are split into nine performance outcomes:
- The process and techniques of gathering, compiling, and analyzing data
- Using online platforms
- Common file types and required software for accessibility
4. Office and Records Management (17%)
The questions in this domain are split into nine performance outcomes:
- Basic records management
- Necessary resources for efficiently managing an office
- Necessary resources for efficiently supporting others
5. Meeting, Event, and Project Management (19%)
The questions in this domain are split into five performance outcomes:
- Meetings and event management
- Travel coordination
- Project management
6. Operational Functions (19%)
The questions in this domain are split into seven performance outcomes:
- Human Resources processes
- The importance of DEI for an organization
- Basic financial functions of an organization
- Elements of the banking process and transactions
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CAP Exam Registration
To register for the exam, you must first create an IAAP account on their website. Through this account, you can submit an application, which includes the $575 exam fee ($375 for IAAP members).
Once your application has been approved, you will be able to schedule your exam. If you are taking the in-person exam, you will need to schedule an exam date with your local testing center. If you are taking the remote-proctored exam, you will need to perform a system check and schedule an exam date with Kryterion.
Test Day
In-person Testing
On the day of your exam, you should arrive at the testing facility at least 15 minutes before your scheduled exam time. Once you arrive, you will be asked to present two forms of valid identification, one of which must be a photo ID.
Personal items will not be allowed into the testing center, so it is best to leave things like bags, notebooks, and food items at home or in your car.
Remote Testing
On the day of your exam, you should log in to your Webassessor account and click on your exam, which will be listed in the Scheduled Exams section. Before your exam begins, you will be asked to show two forms of valid identification to the remote proctor via your webcam. You will also be asked by the remote proctor to use your webcam to scan your testing area.
Personal items will not be allowed on your desk/table while you take the exam. This includes your cell phone, notebooks, and food items.
How the CAP Exam is Scored
The CAP exam is scored using a criterion-referenced scoring method. This means that a team of subject-matter experts has decided upon a baseline standard that all test-takers must meet in order to pass the exam.
The passing score for the CAP exam is a scaled score of 500. You will receive your scores 4-6 weeks after you finish the exam.
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FAQs
Q
How many questions are on the IAAP CAP exam?
A
There are between 200 and 225 multiple-choice questions on the exam.
Q
How long is the IAAP CAP exam?
A
The time limit for the exam is 3 hours.
Q
What is the passing score for the IAAP CAP exam?
A
To pass the exam, you must achieve a scaled score of at least 500.
Q
How much does the IAAP CAP exam cost?
A
The examination fee for this exam is $375 for IAAP members and $575 for non-members.
