Testing

Exam Access | Deadlines | Exam Format | Test Results
Re-Test Procedures | Fees | Review of Examination | Special Arrangements

Exam Access

To be eligible for online exam access, a candidate must be enrolled in a designation program and must either attend a live seminar or purchase the course in self-study format. To obtain an authorization code for a live seminar, proof of attendance must first be submitted to the National Institute. Forms for this purpose may be found in all seminar manuals. To obtain a code for courses purchased in self-study format, candidates should contact the National Institute at (610) 688-4574. top

Deadlines

Exams must be taken and passed within one year of the original seminar date or self-study shipment date. EXCEPTION: If a candidate purchases a designation package containing all applicable courses, all exams must be completed within 18 months of shipment date. top

Exam Format

Each test consists of 60 objective questions. A minimum passing grade of 70 percent is required. All exams are taken on the National Institute website, www.niepe.org, and are timed. A maximum of two minutes is allowed per question, and the questions must be answered in the order presented. A lack of response will be counted as an incorrect answer. Detailed instructions for taking the exams are provided to all designation candidates and may also be obtained from the National Institute website. It is important that the candidate read and understand these instructions prior to taking the first exam. top

Test Results

Results are given immediately at the conclusion of the exam. If the candidate receives a passing grade, credit is automatically granted by the National Institute for that course. The candidate will not receive additional confirmation of this credit; however, the National Institute will provide written confirmation upon request. top

Re-Test Procedures

If a candidate does not receive a passing grade on an exam, the candidate must contact the National Institute to obtain a new authorization code. A candidate may take an exam as many times as needed prior to the deadline. top

Fees

There is no fee for the first attempt at any designation exam. However, a $30 administrative fee is charged for the second, and any subsequent, attempt. This fee must be paid before a new testing code can be issued. top

Review of Examination

Upon request, a candidate's completed exam may be reviewed by the National Institute. However, for security purposes, copies of test questions and answers are not released to the public. All exams are routinely reviewed by the National Institute to ensure fairness, integrity, and subject matter accuracy. Any questions about test results may be directed to the National Institute by phone, fax, or email. top

Special Arrangements

Reasonable adjustments will be made for those candidates who, because of a disability, require special accommodations. A doctor's letter must be provided to the National Institute. top