If you need help studying for the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) exam or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.
Click below to take a free CAP practice test!
Exam Eligibility
Before you can register to take the CAP exam, you’ll have to meet at least ONE of the requirements below:
- You must complete at least 7,072 hours (four years) of relevant work experience.
- You must have an associate degree and complete at least 5,304 hours (three years) of relevant work experience.
- You must have a bachelors’ degree and complete at least 3,536 hours (two years) of relevant work experience.
If you meet one of these requirements, you’re set to begin the registration process!
What’s on the Exam?
There are 200-225 multiple-choice questions total, and you’ll have a time limit of 3 hours. There aren’t any scheduled breaks, but you’re free to take restroom breaks as needed.
Let’s take a closer look at the different sections of the CAP exam.
1. ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AND LEADERSHIP
~20% of the exam
- Concepts and applications of management models
- Effective interactions with stakeholders
- Team dynamics
- Business and strategic planning
- Benefits and strategies of professional development
2. BUSINESS COMMUNICATION AND DELIVERABLES
~16% of the exam
- Communication concepts and applications
- Techniques of presenting information
- Proofreading, editing, and finishing documents
3. SOFTWARE, DATA, AND THE INTERNET
~10% of the exam
- Gathering and analyzing data
- Using online platforms
- Common file types and required software for accessibility
4. OFFICE AND RECORDS MANAGEMENT
~17% of the exam
- Basic records management
- Resources needed to manage an office efficiently
- Resources needed to support others efficiently
5. MEETING, EVENT, AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT
~19% of the exam
- Meetings and event management
- Travel coordination
- Project management
6. OPERATIONAL FUNCTIONS
~19% of the exam
- HR processes
- Recognizing why DEI is important for an organization
- Basic financial functions of an organization
- Banking process and transaction elements
How to Register
Once you’ve ensured that you meet all of the eligibility requirements, you can register for the exam.
To get started, you’ll need to submit an application on IAAP’s website. The application will ask you for your contact information and any documentation to prove your eligibility (among other things).
When you submit the application, you’ll also need to submit the testing fee, which is $575. If you’re an IAAP member, you will only have to pay $375.
CAP Study Guide and Flashcards
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
Exam Scores
The test is scored using a scaled scoring method. Here’s how it works:
You will need a score of 500 to pass the test.
The reason your raw score is converted to a scaled score is because everyone who takes the test is given a slightly different set of questions. Since everyone has a different arrangement of questions, and because some questions are harder than others, converting your raw score to a scaled score ensures a more even playing field.
Retaking the Exam
If you didn’t get a passing score on your first try, that’s okay! You can retake the test during the next available testing period.
Keep in mind that you will have to pay a fee every time you retake the test.
FAQs
How many questions are on the CAP exam?
The exam contains 200-225 questions.
What is the time limit for the CAP exam?
The exam is timed at 3 hours.
What is the passing score for the CAP exam?
You’ll need to get a final scaled score of at least 500 to pass the exam.
How much does the CAP exam cost?
The exam fee is $575 ($375 for IAAP members).