The American Planning Association (APA) is currently accepting applications for the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Certification Exam.

Applicants must be a current member of the APA, presently or previously involved in professional planning defined by the AICP and have completed one of the following:

 
• Graduate degree in Planning from a program accredited by the PAB and 2 years of professional planning experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Planning from a program accredited by the PAB and 3 years of professional planning experience.
• Graduate degree in Planning from a program not accredited by the PAB and 3 years of professional planning experience.
• Any other post-graduate, graduate or undergraduate degree and 4 years of professional planning experience.
• No college degree and 8 years of professional planning experience.

The American Institute of Certified Planners is a professional institute of the APA, an organization of professional planners made up of more than 40,000 members from 90 countries. The AICP states they provide the only nationwide, independent verification of planners' qualifications. In a survey by the APA and AICP, it was shown that even with less experience, certified planners earn more than those noncertified. The AICP Certification is also recognized by employers, providing assurance of potential employee qualifications or improving professional reputations and value. According to the institute, certified planners pledge to uphold high standards of practice, ethics and professional conduct and to keep their skills sharp and up to date by continuously pursuing advanced professional education.

The application and registration windows are open with an application deadline of June 26 and registration deadline of October 30. The exam will take place from November 9 - 23. Exam fees are required and scholarships available.

To learn more on certification eligibility and how to apply: https://www.planning.org/aicp/