Examination Information
2027 Certified Archivist Examination
A virtual exam, June 10-12, 2027
The 2027 Certified Archivist Examination will be administered virtually. The three-hour exam is offered at multiple scheduled times across the three-day testing window, so you can choose the time that works best for you.
ACA does not offer an in-person examination option.
2027 timeline
March 1, 2027 · 12:00 PM ET
Applications open. Payment is due when you submit your application.
April 30, 2027 · 11:59 PM ET
Applications close. This is also the deadline for candidates retaking the exam to confirm with ACA.
Early to mid-May 2027
Approved applicants receive scheduling instructions, including technical requirements and testing procedures.
June 10-12, 2027
Examination window. You test at the time you scheduled.
July 2027
Results are sent to all candidates.
September 30, 2027
Deadline for candidates who passed to pay first-year ACA membership dues and activate the credential.
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Examination, first-time candidates (includes registration and a practice exam) | $125 USD |
| Examination, retaking candidates and Certified Archivists recertifying by examination | $75 USD |
| First-year ACA membership dues, after passing | $75 USD |
Payment is required when you submit your application. A pay-by-check option is available. Fees are set by the ACA Board of Regents and are subject to change.
Cancellation policy
If circumstances prevent you from taking the examination, let ACA know as early as possible.
More than 24 hours before your appointment
Refund, less a $25 processing fee
Cancel more than 24 hours before your scheduled appointment and your fee is refunded, minus $25.
Less than 24 hours, or a no-show
Full fee forfeited
Cancellations less than 24 hours before testing, failure to appear, or inadequate identification at check-in forfeit the full fee.
Retaking the exam or recertifying by exam
Retaking the examination
Write to office@certifiedarchivists.org by April 30 to confirm that you intend to sit in 2027. Depending on your certification status, a new application may be required. The fee for retaking candidates is $75.
Recertifying by examination
Certified Archivists may recertify by retaking the exam in the final year of their five-year cycle. Notify ACA in advance and apply during the March 1 to April 30 application window. The fee is $75. See Certification Maintenance.
Recertifying in 2027? If your cycle began July 1, 2022 and you want to recertify by exam, complete the Choose Your Path form by February 1, 2027, then apply during the March 1 to April 30 window.
Activating your CA credential
Passing the examination makes you eligible for the Certified Archivist credential. To activate it, pay your first year of ACA membership dues ($75) by September 30 following notice that you passed. Once your dues are received, the credential is Active and you may use the CA designation.
Don't miss the September 30 deadline. If first-year dues are not paid by then, the credential enters Lapsed status on October 1, before it has ever really been used.
From then on, your credential stays active as long as you:
- Pay annual ACA membership dues, due each September 30
- Recertify every five years, by earning 60 Continuing Education Credits and filing the Petition for Recertification, or by retaking the exam
Understanding Your CA Credential explains how the two requirements work together.
Questions?
For questions about the examination, your application, or scheduling, 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.