The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), which is the largest HR membership organization in the world, administers the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) exam for those pursuing a credential in human resource management.
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SHRM-CP Exam Eligibility
There are no strict eligibility requirements for the SHRM-CP. The exam is intended for people who perform general HR-related duties, or for those who are pursuing a career in human resource management as a student.
SHRM-CP Exam Format
The SHRM-CP exam contains 134 multiple-choice questions, 24 of which are unscored, and has a time limit of 3 hours and 40 minutes. The unscored questions are used by SHRM to evaluate questions for future versions of the exam.
There are two types of multiple-choice questions on the exam: knowledge-based questions and situational judgment questions.
There are two types of knowledge questions on the exam: HR-specific (KI) and foundational (FKI). The KIs pertain to the concepts covered in the 14 HR functional areas, while the FKIs pertain to concepts covered in the 9 behavioral competencies.
Situational Judgment Questions
The situational judgment questions (SJIs) evaluate your decision-making skills and quality of judgment. These questions present you with a work-related situation and ask you to choose which of several possible strategies will most effectively resolve any conflict and address any issues presented in the scenario.
SHRM-CP Exam Outline
The exam divides the questions into two groups: behavioral competencies and technical competencies. The 9 behavioral competencies are grouped into three clusters, while the single technical competency is split into three domains containing the 14 functional areas.
Behavioral Competencies
The three competencies in the Leadership cluster assess your knowledge of the attributes, behaviors, and base knowledge needed to effectively lead an HR team.
Competency 1: Leadership and Navigation
- Navigating the Organization
- Vision
- Managing HR Initiatives
- Influence
Competency 2: Ethical Practice
- Personal Integrity
- Professional Integrity
- Ethical Agent
Competency 3: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Culture
- Ensuring Equity Effectiveness
- Connecting DE&I to Organizational Performance
CLUSTER 2: INTERPERSONAL
The three competencies in the Interpersonal cluster assess your knowledge of the attributes, behaviors, and base knowledge needed to effectively collaborate and perform the interpersonal aspects of an HR professional’s job.
Competency 1: Relationship Management
- Networking
- Relationship-Building
- Teamwork
- Negotiation
- Conflict Management
Competency 2: Communication
- Delivering Messages
- Exchanging Organizational Information
- Listening
Competency 3: Global Mindset
- Operating in a Culturally Diverse Workplace
- Operating in a Global Environment
- Advocating for a Culturally Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
CLUSTER 3: BUSINESS
The three competencies in the Business cluster assess your knowledge of the attributes, behaviors, and base knowledge needed to meet business objectives by implementing various HR solutions.
Competency 1: Business Acumen
- Business and Competitive Awareness
- Business Analysis
- Strategic Alignment
Competency 2: Consultation
- Evaluating Business Challenges
- Designing HR Solutions
- Advising on HR Solutions
- Change Management
- Service Excellence
Competency 3: Analytical Aptitude
- Data Advocate
- Data Gathering
- Data Analysis
- Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Technical Competency
The one technical competency is the HR Expertise competency, which outlines 14 functional areas grouped into three domains.
Domain 1: People Knowledge
- HR Strategy
- Talent Acquisition
- Employee Engagement and Retention
- Learning and Development
- Total Rewards
Domain 2: Organizational Knowledge
- Structure of the HR Function
- Organizational Effectiveness and Development
- Workforce Management
- Employee Labor and Relations
- Technology Management
Domain 3: Workplace Knowledge
- Managing a Global Workforce
- Risk Management
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- US Employment Law and Regulations
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SHRM-CP Exam Registration
To register for the SHRM-CP exam, you must first create an online SHRM account and submit an application.
Along with your application, you will need to send the applicable examination fee. The fee you pay depends on how early you submit your application:
Once your application and fee have been approved, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT), which will provide you with details on how to schedule your exam with Prometric.
Test Day
Test day requirements differ slightly between the two delivery methods (in-person testing or Live Remote Proctoring). Both formats require a valid, government-issued ID.
In-person Testing
On the day of the test, you should arrive at the testing center 15 to 30 minutes before your exam is scheduled to begin. If you are late, you will not be admitted, and your test will be canceled.
Before the exam begins, you will be asked to provide your photo ID and sign a candidate agreement. Then, you must store all personal items (cell phone, notebook, backpack, etc.) in a provided locker outside the testing area.
During the exam, you can take one 15-minute break whenever you need to, but the timer will not stop while you are away.
Live Remote Proctoring
You should log in to your account 15 to 30 minutes before your testing appointment. You will be asked to show your photo ID, and the proctor will ask you to scan your testing environment to ensure your area is clear of notes, books, and electronic devices.
The launch button for the exam is enabled when the proctor has determined you are ready to begin.
During your exam, your hands must be visible at all times, and you must remain in front of the camera. If anyone enters your testing area during the exam, you must ask them to leave immediately.
You will be permitted one 15-minute break at any point during the test, but the timer will remain running.
How the SHRM-CP Exam is Scored
Your SHRM-CP score is based on a modified Angoff method. This means that your score is determined based solely on your performance on the exam, with no prior work experience or variables factored into your score.
The score range for this exam is 120-200, with the passing score being 200.
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How to Pass the SHRM-CP Exam
How to Study Effectively
Your success on SHRM-CP test day depends not only on how many hours you put into preparing but also on whether you prepared the right way. It’s good to check along the way to see whether your studying is paying off. One of the most effective ways to do this is by taking SHRM-CP practice tests to evaluate your progress. Practice tests are useful because they show exactly where you need to improve. Every time you take a free SHRM-CP exam practice test, pay special attention to these three groups of questions:
- The questions you got wrong
- The ones you had to guess on, even if you guessed right
- The ones you found difficult or slow to work through
This will show you exactly what your weak areas are and where you need to devote more study time. Ask yourself why each of these questions gave you trouble. Was it because you didn’t understand the material? Was it because you didn’t remember the vocabulary? Do you need more repetitions on this type of question to build speed and confidence? Dig into those questions and figure out how you can strengthen your weak areas as you go back to review the material.
Answer Explanations
Additionally, many SHRM-CP practice tests have a section explaining the answer choices. It can be tempting to read the explanation and think that you now have a good understanding of the concept. However, an explanation likely only covers part of the question’s broader context. Even if the explanation makes sense, go back and investigate every concept related to the question until you’re positive you have a thorough understanding.
Comprehend Each Topic
As you go along, keep in mind that the SHRM-CP practice test is just that: practice. Memorizing these questions and answers will not be very helpful on the actual test because it is unlikely to have any of the same exact questions. If you only know the right answers to the sample questions, you won’t be prepared for the real thing. Study the concepts until you understand them fully, and then you’ll be able to answer any question that shows up on the test.
Strategy for SHRM-CP Practice
When you’re ready to start taking practice tests, follow this strategy:
- Remove Limitations. Take the first test with no time constraints and with your notes and SHRM-CP study guide handy. Take your time and focus on applying the strategies you’ve learned.
- Time Yourself. Take the second practice test “open book” as well, but set a timer and practice pacing yourself to finish in time.
- Simulate Test Day. Take any other practice tests as if it were test day. Set a timer and put away your study materials. Sit at a table or desk in a quiet room, imagine yourself at the testing center, and answer questions as quickly and accurately as possible.
- Keep Practicing. Keep taking practice tests on a regular basis until you run out of practice tests or it’s time for the actual test. Your mind will be ready for the schedule and stress of test day, and you’ll be able to focus on recalling the material you’ve learned.
SHRM-CP Online Prep Course
If you want to be fully prepared, Mometrix offers an online SHRM-CP prep course designed to give you everything you need to succeed!
Here’s what you’ll find in the SHRM-CP course:
- 150+ Review Lessons Covering Every Topic
- Over 1,200 SHRM-CP Practice Questions
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Everyone learns differently, so we’ve tailored the SHRM-CP online prep course to ensure every learner has what they need to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam.
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FAQs
Q
How long is the SHRM-CP exam?
A
The time limit for the exam is 3 hours and 40 minutes.
Q
How many questions are on the SHRM-CP exam?
A
There are 134 multiple-choice questions on the exam, 24 of which are unscored.
Q
How hard is the SHRM-CP exam?
A
The SHRM-CP exam is considered to be a moderately difficult exam that requires a lot of studying and preparation in order to pass.
Q
What is the passing score for the SHRM-CP exam?
A
To pass the exam, you must achieve a score of 200.
Q
How much does the SHRM-CP exam cost?
A
The cost of the exam depends on how and when you register. See full exam fee details here.
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