Guide to the Exam

Guide to the Exam

What to expect on exam day

How the Certified Archivist Examination is structured, what you need for virtual proctoring, how results are reported, and the terms every candidate agrees to before testing.

Exam Dates and Fees What the Exam Covers

Exam structure

 
100 Multiple-choice questions
3 hours Time limit
1 Correct answer per question
No penalty For guessing, so answer every question
Flag Mark questions and come back to them

The exam is based on the Role Delineation Statement for Professional Archivists, which sets out the knowledge and tasks the exam measures.

Virtual proctoring

 

The examination is administered virtually and proctored individually in a secure environment. Before you begin, you will need to:

  • Present a government-issued photo ID
  • Test in a quiet, uncluttered space
  • Allow the proctor to access your computer via Zoom to start the examination
  • Agree to the General Terms of Use and Non-Disclosure Agreement

Permitted

  • Restroom breaks
  • One clear bottle of water
  • A mask or face covering (removed briefly for ID verification)

Not permitted

  • Reference materials
  • Writing instruments
  • Electronic devices, unless approved as an accommodation
  • Virtual or blurred backgrounds

Accommodations

 

ACA maintains a formal accommodation policy and works with candidates who have documented needs. Indicate your need when you register, or contact the Regent for Exam Administration at examadmin@certifiedarchivists.org. Reaching out early gives us the most time to make arrangements.

Results

 

Results are released approximately four weeks after testing. Scores are reported in one of four categories:

High Pass Pass Low Pass Did Not Pass

Every candidate also receives domain-level feedback showing how they performed in each area of the exam, which is especially useful if you plan to retake it.

After you pass

 

Passing makes you eligible for the Certified Archivist credential. It becomes Active once you pay your first year of ACA membership dues, due by September 30 following notice that you passed.

Your five-year certification cycle begins July 1 of the examination year and runs through June 30 five years later. To keep the credential active, you pay annual ACA membership dues and recertify by the end of each cycle. Understanding Your CA Credential explains how the two work together.

Terms of use and non-disclosure

 

Every candidate must agree to ACA's Examination General Terms of Use and Non-Disclosure Agreement before testing. The agreement is sent to you in Prolydian for your digital signature. Violating examination policies may result in:

  • Dismissal from testing
  • Score cancellation
  • Forfeiture of fees
  • A ban from future testing
  • Additional disciplinary action
Read the full General Terms of Use and Non-Disclosure Agreement Updated June 9, 2021

Questions?

For questions about the exam, accommodations, or testing procedures, contact the Regent for Exam Administration at examadmin@certifiedarchivists.org.

For questions about fees, payment, or activating your credential, contact ACA at office@certifiedarchivists.org or (518) 694-8471.

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