"True" Competency-Based Certifications
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How many questions are on your certification tests?
None. Our certifications do not require taking a written test. Our certifications are competency-based. Please review the "About our Approach" page for our reasoning for this. Also, review the "Certification Requirements" for the specific requirements to earn your certification.
Will you be offering new certifications in the future?
Yes, we are researching and developing innovative new certification programs that we will be offering in the future.
Why are you not accepting international applicants?
At this time we do not have the international offices and staff to verify experience or education eligibility for international applicants.
Why do you not charge a fee until phase 2 of the certification process?
We believe that a fee should not be charged until applicant eligibility has been determined. It is only fair and proper.
Do I need to earn the lower level certification (such as professional level) before applying for a higher level certification (such as senior or master level)?
No. If you meet the eligibility requirements in phase 1 for a higher level certification, then you can apply for that level without earning the lower level certifications.
Why do your competency-based assessments use open source tools, languages, and databases?
Our assessments use open source tools, languages, and databases such as C++, PHP, MySQL, and MariaDB to keep our certifications “vendor neutral”. The skills needed to work with these open source resources are the same skills needed for “vendor” created resources.
With Home-Based Assessments, how do you identify plagiarism?
Our peer evaluators use the same tools and methods that college and university professors use to assess your work and to identify plagiarism.
How difficult is the Competency-Based Assessment?
If you meet the eligibility requirements in phase 1, you should have no problem completing and passing the Competency-Based Assessment.
How much time is given to complete the Competency-Based Assessment?
You have 60 days to complete and submit the Competency-Based Assessment.
How long does it take to complete the Competency-Based Assessment in phase 2?
It all depends on the certification, the certification level, the assessment tasks, your skill level, and the amount of time you can devote to the assessment. The higher level certifications (senior and master) require more time. We estimate that it can range from about 5 to 25 hours.
When do I submit my re-certification application?
You can submit your re-certification application anytime during the last six months of your 5-year certification cycle. However, it is suggested that you don’t wait for the last few days to submit your application as it may cause delays in the re-certification process.