Before undertaking a study program, take a few minutes to learn how the exams are developed, who develops them, how item writers are trained to write questions that discern a person’s HR knowledge and the steps taken to ensure the exams are a reliable measure of that knowledge. This information, available on the HRCI web site at www.hrci.org, will provide valuable background as you prepare for the exam.

The focus of any study program should be on the functional areas and the HR content that falls under those functional areas. Practice exams can help candidates who have not taken multiple-choice exams and refresh those test-taking skills. With the exception of the HRCI online assessment exam for the PHR and SPHR exams, it is important to recognize that many practice exams may not reflect the true difficulty level of the actual exam questions.

PHR and SPHR Online Assessment Exam

HRCI offers a series of online assessment exams for both the PHR and SPHR exams. This assessment will help determine if you are ready to take the exam by assessing strengths and weaknesses in each of the six functional areas of HR. This will help focus study efforts.

The assessment exam will:

• Assess your HR knowledge and experience.
• Expose you to the types of questions seen on the actual certification exam.
• Indicate if you have the right experience and knowledge to take the PHR or SPHR exam.
• Assess the results of your exam preparation strategies (if you purchase the “pre-“ and “post-test” package)

There are numerous PHR and SPHR “practice” exams available to candidates as part of packaged preparation materials and on the internet. The HRCI online assessment exams are the only ones developed by HRCI, using actual retired exam questions, for PHR and SPHR candidates. Use this assessment tool before registering for the exam to help you shape your study plan. If you purchase the two-exam “package”, we also recommend taking the second exam just before sitting for the actual exam to help you pace yourself to the rhythm of the actual exam.

To learn more about the assessment exam and cost, please visit the HRCI web site at www.hrci.org </>.

PHR and SPHR Study Materials

The range of materials that can be used to help prepare for the PHR or SPHR certification exam is quite extensive. The most widely used materials are:

PHR and SPHR Certification Guide. This is an excellent resource on how to approach the certification review process. It features the test specifications based on the HR body of knowledge, exam review methods, sample test questions and rationales, a bibliography organized by functional area and answers to frequently asked questions. The guide is available through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) bookstore, Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble online. To order the guide through the SHRMStore^® call (800) 444-5006, option 1, or visit the bookstore online at www.shrm.org/shrmstore.

GPHR Certification Guide. First published in 2007 to cover the current GPHR Body of Knowledge, this thorough test-preparation guide is an ideal tool for HR professionals with cross-border, international and/or global HR responsibilities who are preparing for certification as a Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR). The guide includes practice questions written by the exam development panel. Although these questions do not actually appear on the exam, they are representative of the type of questions that will be encountered. The guide also includes tips for exam preparation, suggested resources, and a 50-question practice exam, including answers, rationales for the answers and coding. It is available through the SHRM bookstore, Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble online. To order the guide through the SHRMStore call (800) 444-5006, option 1, or visit the bookstore online at www.shrm.org/shrmstore.

The SHRM^®Learning System. This system is a comprehensive computer-based/workbook program based on the HRCI test specifications. The SHRM Learning System covers the six functional areas of HR. Each module includes its own self-study guide, case studies and diagnostic tests. For more information, contact the Holmes Corporation at (800) 444-5006, option 2, or visit the SHRM web site at www.shrm.org. Passing the SHRM Learning System does not guarantee passing the HRCI exam.

University or professional-level textbooks. Current editions can be obtained through a local college/university library or by contacting the publisher. Some textbooks can also be ordered through the SHRM bookstore.

GPHR Exam Preparation. The SHRM® Global Learning System. SHRM has developed the SHRM Global Learning System to help prepare candidates for the GPHR exam. The SHRM Global Learning System was developed by a team of HR professionals with international HR expertise and course development specialists. For more information about the SHRM Global Learning System, please contact SHRM at 1-800-283-SHRM or visit the SHRM web site at www.shrm.org.

HRCI does not endorse any specific study preparation method or course nor does it maintain information about them. In fact, HRCI strongly recommends that candidates use multiple reference materials when studying for the exams.

Preparation Courses

Some people find that independent self-study meets their needs while others find study group participation more desirable. Evaluate your own learning style and decide which study approach will help you the most.

Formal preparation courses for the PHR and SPHR exams may include but are not limited to:

• SHRM-affiliated chapter-sponsored courses. For more information, contact your local SHRM chapter.
• College/university-sponsored courses. For more information, visit the SHRM web site at www.shrm.org or contact the SHRM Customer Service department at (800) 283-7476 or (703) 548-3440.
• SHRM Certification Preparation course. For more information, visit the SHRM web site at www.shrm.org or contact the SHRM Customer Service department at (800) 283-7476 or (703) 548-3440.
• In-house company programs. Registration is normally restricted to members of that organization.