The Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) is the world’s largest human resources organization. It offers globally recognized HR credentials that validate knowledge and competencies in strategic and operational HR practices.
The organization awards two certifications: Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) for mid-level HR professionals and Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) for senior-level HR leaders.
Many businesses consider supporting their employees’ SHRM certification as an investment in successful people operations. Offering support, such as exam preparation or reimbursement, can encourage employees to attain the credential.
SHRM-CP vs. SHRM-SCP: What’s the difference?
The table below illustrates the differences between the two certifications from SHRM:
| Credential | Target audience | Focus | Experience required |
|---|---|---|---|
| SHRM-CP | HR professionals (mid-level) | Operational and tactical HR | 1–2 years HR experience |
| SHRM-SCP | HR leaders, strategists | Strategic HR leadership | 3–6+ years HR experience |
How to obtain SHRM certification
Eligibility for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP
The SHRM-CP certification has no mandatory educational or experience prerequisites. This inclusive approach enables professionals from diverse backgrounds to enter the HR field and demonstrate their competency, regardless of their formal education or previous experience.
Candidates must demonstrate at least three years of strategic-level HR experience to be eligible for the SHRM-SCP certification. In addition, they must prove that for each of the three years, they devoted 1,000 hours to strategic-level work.
According to SHRM, strategic-level HR work includes “developing HR policies and/or procedures, overseeing the execution of integrated HR operations, directing an entire HR enterprise, or leading the alignment of HR strategies to organizational goals.”
Those who have maintained SHRM-CP credentials for at least three years and are working in or moving toward a strategic HR role are also eligible for SHRM-SCP.
Steps to certification
- If the eligibility criteria are met, interested persons can apply via the SHRM website to take the exam, either in person or at a testing center.
- Pay exam fees.
- Schedule the exam.
- Take the exam.
Recertify every three years with professional development credits (PDCs).
Exam details
After a 20-minute introduction to the exam, candidates have three hours and 40 minutes to complete it. Individuals with disabilities or other special needs can request accommodations.
The exam consists of knowledge- and scenario-based multiple-choice questions.
- Knowledge items. The questions measure the examinee’s knowledge of HR functions. There are a total of 80 knowledge items.
- Situational judgement items. These 54 questions assess an examinee’s ability to respond to and make decisions regarding HR scenarios.
Note: The exam includes 24 field-test items that are not used for scoring. SHRM uses them to gather data on whether the question assesses examinees’ knowledge or judgment.
How much does SHRM certification cost?
Both the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams cost US$410 for SHRM members and US$510 for non-members. There are discounts available for early registration, students, military personnel, and other eligible individuals.
Recertification occurs every three years, with a fee of US$100 for members and US$150 for non-members. SHRM prep courses, study guides, and practice tests are available at additional costs.
Why SHRM certification matters for employers
Employing talent with SHRM certification is advantageous for businesses. It helps ensure that HR teams understand and adhere to current, globally recognized HR practices regarding recruitment, people management, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
At the same time, having HR talent on staff who are SHRM-certified demonstrates the HR department’s commitment to professionalism in the field and staying up to date on policy and technology changes in HR, such as the impact of AI on HR processes.
Should you require SHRM certification for your HR team?
SHRM certification is not necessarily required, but it is highly recommended for HR managers and leaders, those involved with multi-country or global HR operations, and teams focused on compliance, HR strategy, and people analytics.
- HR managers and above
- Global or multi-country HR operations
- Teams focused on compliance, strategy, or people analytics
Businesses are wise to consider offering study material, training, and exam reimbursement as part of efforts to engage and develop employees.
FAQ
Should businesses only hire SHRM-certified HR professionals?
Not necessarily, but SHRM certifications signal up-to-date HR expertise.
Can a business require its internal HR team to become SHRM certified?
Yes. Many companies make it part of their professional development path.
Can SHRM-certified employees handle global HR compliance?
Yes, especially those with SHRM-SCP credentials, which include global strategy competencies.
What if we have remote HR teams across countries?
SHRM certification is globally recognized and valued.
Does SHRM certification expire?
Yes. Employees must recertify every three years through continuing education or professional development credits (PDCs).
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This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided “as is,” and no representations are made that the content is error-free.
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