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. 

Knowledge items assess candidates’ understanding of factual information. Examinees are asked questions on particular subject areas. Correct answers will receive full credit. Incorrect answers will receive no credit.

Situational judgment items assess candidates’ KSAs and decision-making skills, which are not easily measured using traditional knowledge-based questions. Examinees are presented with realistic work-related scenarios and asked to choose the best of several possible strategies to resolve or address them.

“Field Test” Questions

The field test items on the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exams will be interspersed randomly in the exams so that candidates will not know which they are. Examinees’ answers to field test questions will not count toward any part of their final exam scores.

Field-testing gathers data on a question’s effectiveness before it can be included on future exams as a scored item. This process facilitates SHRM’s efforts to continuously assess and improve all aspects of its certification program.

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SCORE WEIGHTING FOR EACH SUBJECT AREA