QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

What are the basic prerequisites for applying to the ASPE professional evaluation process?

At the time of completion of the Professional Evaluation Application you must have a minimum of five (5) years construction estimating experience in the specific discipline for which you seek certification. This is not negotiable. There will be no exceptions.

How do I apply for Certification?

Information and Application forms are available on the ASPE website. Please visit
www.aspenational.org. Or you may contact your Chapter Certification Chair, your Regional Governor, Regional Certification Board Member or the Society Business Office.

Is there a cut-off date for submitting the Application for Professional Evaluation?

Yes. Refer to the matrix schedule for complete information on completion dates for each step of the program.

Is attendance required for the Orientation Workshop?

Yes. It is mandatory that all Certification Candidates attend and complete the Certification Orientation Workshop.

What costs are associated with Certification?

Current fees are listed at part of the Professional Evaluation Application and available on the national website, www.aspenational.org. The type and number of examinations for which the candidate has applied will determine certification fees. Applicants who successfully complete the Certification process will be subject to a Continuing Certification application fee (every three 3 years). Applicants should be prepared to purchase any of the recommended texts/study materials that would most beneficially complement their current libraries.

What does the Certification process entail?

Certification involves four major elements: an Orientation Workshop; a Technical Paper; the General Estimating Knowledge (GEK) Exam consisting of 4 hours of questions; and the Discipline Specific Test (DST) consisting of 8 hours of questions and problems. If your specific discipline is not available when the GEK examination is taken, you are required to write 100 Discipline Specific questions and 2 problems with 50 questions each. All problems must be "mini" estimates.

How will I be informed of my acceptance into the Certification Program?

The Society Business Office (SBO) will notify you in writing of your acceptance. Approved applicants for examination will be assigned a candidate number to ensure confidentiality throughout the balance of the certification process. Technical paper topics will also be assigned at that time. 

When are examinations given?

Proctored examinations must be taken in the time frame outlined in the Certification schedule. The applicant shall work with the local Chapter Certification Chairperson and/or the Regional CPE Board member to arrange for a CPE to proctor the exams. Exams can also be taken during the ASPE National Convention.

Where are examinations administered?

Each proctor will inform candidates of the examination location. Members-at-Large will travel to the most convenient examination site to complete testing. Extenuating circumstances will be considered on an individual basis; however, MALs residing outside of the United States will be expected to return to the United States for examination.

Why is the Technical Paper required?

The Technical Paper is critical to the continuing education of ASPE members. This paper demonstrates that the candidate can communicate and express their estimating knowledge and capabilities. It also serves as an additional way to measure your experience in your chosen profession. It is an import part of why our certification Program has achieved the recognition of governmental agencies and other professional industry organizations.

Why can't I predetermine a topic for my Technical Paper?

As a candidate, you are requested to submit three specific topics in your area of expertise so that the Certification Board can equitably assign topics to all applicants. One of the topics or one closely related will be assigned. 

What may I bring to the examination?

You are allowed to furnish your own calculator and writing instruments. Other items related to test day would be thoroughly covered at the mandatory Orientation Workshop. No computers or programmable calculators are allowed. 

What requirements must be successfully completed in order to become a Certified Professional Estimator?

It is necessary to complete the Professional Evaluation Application and to be accepted to the program. Once accepted to the program, candidates must complete the mandatory Certification Orientation Workshop, pass the Technical Paper requirements, pass the GEK exam and pass the DST requirements concerning your discipline, to receive the designation of Certified Professional Estimator.

How will I be notified of the test results?

The exam results are received from the Test Grading Service Center. The Society Business Office verifies the results and will inform you in writing of your PASS/FAIL status.

What happens if I fail the examination(s)?

A FAIL status on the General Estimating Knowledge (GEK) exam requires that you retake the GEK Exam on the next testing date. A FAIL status on the Discipline Specific Test (DST) requires that you retake the DST Exam on the next testing date. A second FAIL status on either the GEK or DST results in termination from the Certification Program. You may reapply at the next testing
cycle. 

Will I receive proof of Certification by the Society?

You will receive a certificate attesting to your compliance with the requirements of the Certification Program. The certificate is issued with the date of your successful completion of the program. Your membership status will be upgraded to Certified Professional Estimator (CPE).

How long is the Certification valid?

The Certification is valid for a period of three (3) years from the first August 1 following the date you receive notification of your CPE status. The expiration date is indicated on the certificate. Certification may be renewed every three years by satisfactory completion of the Certification Renewal Program. After 4 complete renewal cycles (15 years as a CPE) without a lapse in certification renewal and an ASPE member in good standing without a lapse, candidates may apply for the status of "Lifetime CPE". 

What are the rewards of becoming a Certified Professional Estimator?

As a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), you will receive the professional recognition of your peers and all of the rights, privileges and responsibilities incumbent upon a professional.

What happens if I fail to submit a Technical Paper by the deadline?

Candidates who fail to submit a Technical Paper by the deadline will be given a chance to explain, in writing, the reason for the failure to meet the requirement. The explanation must be submitted to the National CPE Board. The Board will review each applicants request for an extension and vote as to the approval or denial of the request. The Board's decision is final. Should an extension be denied the applicant will be allowed to re-enter the process at the next cycle. However, all fees, except for the workshop fee, must be re-submitted.