To ensure that the average scores for the exam do not demonstrate a false negative (i.e., failing candidates who are actually competent to receive the PHR and SPHR certifications), a standard error of measurement (SEM) is included in the score averages. Taking the SEM into account, the passing scores for the exam are adjusted accordingly.

The Angoff procedure has been in place for a long time. It is a tried, tested and respected process that ensures that the passing point for the PHR, SPHR and GPHR exams was not arbitrarily determined.

The Angoff process sets a benchmark for a minimally qualified candidate. Because all exam forms are pre-equated, passing scores vary from exam form to exam form and from test administration to test administration. Setting an arbitrary passing point for each exam (e.g., all candidates must answer 70 percent of an examination form correctly in order to pass) would not take into account the variations in difficulty level from one exam to another. Candidates taking different forms of the exam would be significantly disadvantaged. Because it is virtually impossible to create an exam of the same difficulty level (with a static pass rate of 70 percent, for example), the pre-equating process ensures that the standard, as opposed to the number of items correct, remains the same.