Certification Handbook
The information in the SHRM Certification Handbook will help you understand why the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) program was developed, how it is governed, its policies and procedures, and the steps you must take to earn and maintain your credential.
Please use this handbook as a reference and supplement. While SHRM has made every effort to anticipate and address most questions in this guide, the website is your best source for details on future changes.
Exam Content outlines
The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams are based on the SHRM BASK and its two major aspects of modern HR practice, Competencies and Knowledge. Accordingly, the exams contain two types of questions:
- Knowledge items, which cover the four Knowledge Domains (People, Organization, Workplace) associated with the SHRM BASK's Technical Knowledge competency; and
- Situational judgment items, which cover the knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) associated with the SHRM BASK's Behavioral Competencies.
Answers to these questions will contribute to the final score for the exams. In addition, both exams contain “field test” items, the answers for which will not be scored.
SCORE WEIGHTING FOR EACH SUBJECT AREA
| SUBJECT AREA | SHRM-CP / SHRM-SCP (134 ITEMS) |
|---|---|
| Behavioral Competencies | 50% |
| Leadership | 17% |
| Business | 16.5% |
| Interpersonal | 16.5% |
| Technical Competencies | 50% |
| People | 18% |
| Organization | 18% |
| Workplace | 14% |