FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

· CAN I PAY IN INSTALLMENTS?

Unfortunately at this stage, you cannot pay for the programme in instalments.  You can split the costs by paying for the registration fees and study manuals first and then paying for the examination when you are due to write.

· HOW LONG DOES THE PROGRAMME TAKE?

The length of the programme is dependent on the candidate.  With discipline and dedication, the CAP Programme can be completed in 6 months.

· WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CPS AND CAP?

When writing the CAP Programme, you will write examinations for all four modules.  If you are writing the CPS Programme, you will write examinations for the first three modules.

· CAN I DO THE CPS PROGRAMME FIRST AND THEN THE CAP PROGRAMME?

You can register to write the CPS Programme first (3 modules), and once you have achieved your CPS rating, you can then register to do Part 4 and get your CAP rating.

· WHERE ARE EXAMS ADMINISTERED?

The exams are held in all the major centres -  Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Pretoria, twice a year.  Part 4 (CAP) is held on the first Friday of the month (May and November) and the CPS examinations are held on the first Saturday of the month (May and November).

· HOW MUCH EXPERIENCE DO I NEED TO BE APPROVED TO TAKE DO THE PROGRAMME?

The amount of experience needed is determined by educational background.  An applicant with a bachelor’s degree needs two years administrative experience.  An applicant with an associate degree needs three years administrative experience and an applicant with no college degree needs four years administrative experience.  If using a college degree to reduce the work experience requirement, a copy of the degree must be submitted with the application.

· HOW IS THE PASSING SCORE SET?

The pass/fail cut score is determined using a criterion-referenced method.  This is a method where candidates’ performance is measured based on a predetermined standard or set passing score.  The cut score is determined by the Educators on the Institute for Certification, using psychometric data from the current exam and psychometric history.  A psychometric consultant is included in the process.

· WHAT DO I RECEIVE IF I PASS ALL PARTS?

A certificate plaque dated for five years and a pin are received after meeting all requirements and passing all examination parts.

· HOW MANY PARTS DO I HAVE TO TAKE ON MY FIRST ATTEMPT?

New CPS candidates must take all three parts.  New CAP candidates must take all four parts.

· HOW MANY OPPORTUNITIES DO I HAVE TO PASS ALL PARTS?

You may use six consecutive attempts (three years), if necessary, to pass all parts of either the CPS or CAP exam.  The three year time limit starts the first time the examination is taken, and ends six exams later (whether or not the exam has been taken at each examination).

· WHAT HAPPENS IF I DO NOT PASS ALL PARTS IN THE THREE YEAR TIME?

If all parts are not completed in the three year time limit, you may submit a new application and fees and start over.  Credit for parts previously passed will not be carried over.