Are you taking the PHR, SPHR or GPHR exam in the upcoming testing window and wishing you could ask someone about it? The HR Certification Institute Virtual Certification Counselor (VCC) session starts at 12 noon ET on November 5.

Moderator: Welcome to the Virtual Certification Counselor session. You may now submit your questions.

Lebanon, NH: I have books from 2007 for the PHR. How much of a difference is there, other than the laws, for the 2008 PHR exam.

Virtual Certification Counselor: The Body of Knowledge (topics that are covered on the exam) remains the same. As you mentioned, any laws or regulations or NLRB decisions that have undergone change since 2007 may be changed.

Redmond, WA: Can you change the date of your exam and if so, how do you do it?

Virtual Certification Counselor: Exam appointments can be rescheduled within the testing window. Candidates cannot reschedule to another testing window. HRCI shares Thomson Prometric test centers with other organizations and seats fill up quickly, so reschedule appointments as early as possible. There is no charge to reschedule an exam. Exam appointments must be rescheduled no later than 12:00 noon (ET) two business days before the scheduled exam date. Exam appointments can be scheduled by phone Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (ET). To schedule by phone, call Thomson Prometric at (800) 467-9582.

Raleigh, NC: When will the new schedule for 2009 be out and able to register for a test?

Virtual Certification Counselor: Registration for the Spring testing window will open on January 12, 2009.

New York, NY: I am debating how to go about preparing for the certification exam. Are there specific answers which method works better, studying on your own or in a group/class?

Virtual Certification Counselor: There is no single best method that works for everyone. A lot depends on how disciplined an individual is to study independently as opposed to working with a group. Also, in a group, multiple viewpoints can be shared. Some people find that independent self-study meets their needs and schedule, while others find study group participation more desirable. Evaluate your own learning style and decide which study approach will help you the most. Our Certification Handbook (/certification/2008hb/?2008-PHR/SPHR/GPHR-Handbook) has a section that discusses the various options for exam preparation.

Moderator: Thank you for your participation! The transcript will be posted to the website in the next week.

Participate in the next Virtual Certification Counselor session. Click here to view the upcoming schedule.

Are you taking the PHR, SPHR or GPHR exam in the upcoming testing window and wishing you could ask someone about it? The HR Certification Institute Virtual Certification Counselor (VCC) session starts at 12 noon ET on October 1.

Moderator: Good Afternoon, Welcome to HR Certification Institute’s Virtual Counselor session. We will be answering questions pertaining to the application process only. You may now start submitting your questions. HR Certification Institute

Minneapolis, MN: when will the 2009 handbook and test dates be available?

HR Certification Institute: The new 2009 handbook will be available in mid to late November; however, the testing windows do not change. They will still be May 1 to June 30 for the spring window and December 1 to January 31 for the winter window.

North Andover, MA: Will there be a calculator available?

HR Certification Institute: Your computer assigned at the testing center will have a calculator available for your convenience.

Minneapolis, MN: I’m debating between taking courses at the university and getting a certificate in hr or the phr. what are the advantages of one or the other? I am not technically exempt. I worked as a SR recruitment coordinator (associate recruiter) and am now in orientation and integration. How hard is it to get approved?

HR Certification Institute: The PHR certification demonstrates your entire understanding of the HR body of knowledge, which is why you are allowed to use PHR after your name. A certificate teaches you about a specific or general area of HR but you can not use it after your name. You can only list it in your resume versus the PHR can be list on your resume and the letters after your name.

Villanova, PA: What is the general type of question on the SPHR? Do you find they expect you to know about specific laws? Dates? names? etc.

HR Certification Institute: The 225 questions on the exam are multiple choice. Please refer to the link below regarding the test specifications for the SPHR exam. /certification/2008hb/apx-a/

Mobile, AL: I've read about how the test is scored and what is considered a passing score, but I have not seen the # of questions that must be answered correctly in order to pass. What is that number?

HR Certification Institute: Thank you, that is a frequently asked question. The 225 questions on the exam are based on a scale score and not the number of questions that must be answer correctly in order to pass the exam. All questions have a level of difficulty which constitutes the scoring system used by our organization. Please refer to the scoring system link here /certification/examdev/scoring/ or visit our website www.hrci.org and read about how the exams are developed and the scoring system.

Peachtree city, GA: We have several employees that perform 100 percent HR functions daily in a generalist role for 2 or more years but are non-exempt. Would they qualify to submit an application for the exam?

HR Certification Institute: Unfortunately, non-exempt employees do not meet the requirement to sit for the exam.

Los Angeles CA: Is there any increase in the application fees for 2009?

HR Certification Institute: The fees for 2009 will remain the same as in 2008.

Seattle, WA: Good morning from Seattle. I've just submitted my application for the SPHR exam and want to make sure I've provided everything necessary for your consideration. I completed by PHR certification in 1998.

HR Certification Institute: If you were able to find an exact match for your job title on the position code list there is nothing else you need to submit. However if you were unable to find an exact match for a job title on the position code list (found in Appendix C) you must list that job title as other or 999 on their applications; submit a completed supporting documentation form (found in Appendix D) and attach a job description or similar document to show that the position was at an exempt level (professional) and that at least 51 percent of the daily activities were HR focused.

Chicago, Illinois: Do you recommend taking a preparation class before taking the exam?

HR Certification Institute: We actually suggest using various methods when preparing for the exam. In the handbook, we have a section called "Studying for the Exam" with suggested methods for your convenience. Please accept the handbook online at your convenience.

Bridgewater, NJ: My last name is very long, and my NJ driver's license drops the last letter. Do I register with my correct last name, or the name on my driver's license?

HR Certification Institute: Register for the exam the way your name appears on your driver’s license. Once you have passed the exam we will correct your name on your certificate.

Peachtree city, GA: If I apply online do I have to submit payment on line or can the payment be mailed via check?

HR Certification Institute: If you are applying online a credit card payment is required in order for your application to go through. If you are paying with a check, please mail a paper application.

Peachtree city, GA: I may have overlooked it, but I couldn't find the HRCI preparation course study on the SHRM bookstore site. What is the cost?

HR Certification Institute: Please contact SHRM at 800-283-7476, opt 3 for member care. They administer preparation courses for our certification exams.

Dayton, Ohio: What is the best way to prepare oneself to take the PHR exam?

HR Certification Institute: The HR Certification Institute does not endorse any preparation materials because this is a work experience exam. Please refer to the link listed below regarding studying for the exam. /Certification/2007HB/STUDYEX/

Orlando, FL: I recently was laid off, however, did maintain a non-exempt management position for 5 years. Would I be eligible to obtain the PHR credentials, although I have not worked directly in an HR role?

HR Certification Institute: Unfortunately, non-exempt positions do not qualify for the exam. The position must be exempt in order to sit for the exam.

North Andover, MA: Are you required to have a college degree in order to take the PHR exam?

HR Certification Institute: No the PHR, SPHR and GPHR certification is intended for professionals who have at least two years of exempt-level (professional) HR work experience. For more information on eligibility requirements, please refer to the link below. /certification/2008hb/apply/#BM_HRCI-MR-TAB2-1293

HRCI's Virtual Certification Counselor (VCC) session will take place April 10 from 12 noon - 1 p.m. ET. The VCC is a Q&A forum to assist certification candidates with learning more about the process of getting certified. You can submit your questions at any time during the chat.

Moderator: Welcome to the Virtual Certification Counselor session. You may now submit your questions.

New Mexico: How can I let my bosses know this is a good thing to have?

HRCI: It might be a good idea to have your manager visit this link: www.hrci.org. It explains the purpose as well as the process of achieving the certification. Having the designation suggests that you as a professional possess an overall knowledge of the field. To maintain the designation, one has to stay current in the field, almost ensuring your value to the company.

McDonough, GA: This is my first virtual counselor session. Do we not see each others' questions and your answers?

HRCI: Yes, you should be able to see the questions from other participants.

BristowVA: I attempted to register for the exam window of December - January but could not. The registration seemed to only allow for the exam in May. When may I actually complete my registration for the later exam? Thank you.

HRCI: You will not be able to register for the December/January exam window until shortly after the May/June administration.

HRCI: If you are having issues seeing any questions, please refresh your page by pressing F5.

Chicago, IL: I have been responsible for payroll since 1996 and due to a change in management I have been "baptized by fire" in various areas of HR since 2004. I have been told I could be classified as a HR generalist. What steps should I follow in pursuing a PHR certification?

HRCI: From what you are saying, as long as 51% or more of your time has been spent doing exempt-level HR duties for at least 2 years, you would qualify to take the exam. More is listed under the eligibility section of www.hrci.org.

Chicago, IL: I am looking at the website and I do not see an eligibility section. Can you be more specific to where that is located?

HRCI: Please use this link to read more about eligibility: /certification/2008hb/apply/#BM_HRCI-MR-TAB2-1293

Phila., PA: My SPHR will expire in 2009; how many 'strategic' credits do I need

HRCI: Please e-mail me at gscott@hrci.org with more specific information (name, etc); the answer will depend upon when you achieved this certification.

Moderator: Thank you for your participation! The transcript will be posted to the website next week.

HRCI's Virtual Certification Counselor (VCC) session will take place Tuesday, March 4, from 12:00 noon - 1 p.m. ET. The VCC is a Q&A forum to assist certification candidates with learning more about the process of getting certified. You can submit your questions at any time during the chat.

Moderator: Welcome to the Virtual Certification Counselor session. You may now submit your questions.

San Francisco, CA: Does my employer need to be involved in the application process?

HRCI: They do not. Unless your application is audited and you need to demonstrate the 2 years of HR exempt level work experience then they will need to provide you with a letter that describe your duties and responsibilities. Other than that the entire process is detailed in the HRCI handbook.

Durham, NC: I have been doing human resources for over 10 years and in the last five years have concentrated on training-what is going to be the better exam for me the PHR or SPHR?

HRCI: The PHR exam focuses on day to day and technical aspects of the field. The SPHR focuses on strategic management and the policies issues of the field. For more information, please refer to this link /Certification/2008HB/APPLY/

Henderson, CO: If I initially register for the PHR Certification but decide at a later point prior to the testing window that I wish to test for my SPHR, can I change it or am I stuck with testing for the PHR until the next window?

HRCI: You can change your exam level up to 10 business days from your scheduled exam. However, there are policies and procedures in the section "After Applying for the Exam" that details what is needed in order to change your exam level.

Las Vegas, NV: I purchased the 2007 SHRM Learning System, is this material still applicable for the exam in 2008? If not, how do I go about getting updates?

HRCI: HRCI does not endorse any particular preparation materials. The test specifications that you will be tested on will not change. Review the test specifications; this will help you to determine if you need to purchase the 2008 SHRM Learning System.

Santa Clara, CA: I had originally stated that I would take the PHR in the NCHRA class that I'm currently attending; however my experience level falls in the SPHR arena. And I see there is a fee to switch. At what point will this fee be assessed? I'm I already committed to taking the PHR since that is what I chose in class? I have not applied for the exam yet.

HRCI: If you have not applied for the exam yet, and you feel your exempt work experience is more senior level, you may submit your application by March 14. The fee only applies once you have applied for the exam. The HRCI handbook section "After Applying for the Exam" details the policy about exam level and testing center location changes.

Edmond, Oklahoma: My current position description is "Non-Exempt", but my job duties are not in line with what the FSLA labels as non-exempt work. I develop and deliver training, coordinate new employee orientation, participate in hiring decisions, etc. My immediate supervisor has been trying for two years to get me changed to exempt. Will this be a problem for me to be able to take the PHR certification test?

HRCI: Candidates must demonstrate exempt-level (professional) HR work experience. In the United States, exempt is defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and its amendments. If your job title is classified as non-exempt but you are doing exempt level work according to the Fair Labor Standards guidelines you must list that job title as other or 999 on their applications; submit a completed supporting documentation form (found in Appendix D) and attach a job description or similar document to show that the position was at an exempt level (professional) and that at least 51 percent of the daily activities were HR focused. Candidates who do not provide this information will be ineligible to take the exam. To learn more about exempt versus nonexempt work experience, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Web site at www.dol.gov/elaws/flsa.htm.

Lake Buena Vista, FL: Is it a good idea to prepare for the assessment exam? Or just take it to see where your knowledge level is?

HRCI: The assessment exam is a practice exam to help you identify your weaknesses and strengths before preparing for the exam.

Kansas City, Mo: Do you know of any certification study groups in my area?

HRCI: Unfortunately, we do not. However, you may contact SHRM at 800-283-7476, opt 3 customer service and they will be happy to assist you with your question. HRCI only do the administration of the exam.

Edmond, Oklahoma: Do I need to take the assessment exams? What value is there in it? They seem expensive!

HRCI: The assessment exam is designed to help you: Assess your level of HR knowledge and experience. Expose you to the types of questions you will see on the actual certification exam. Determine if you have the right experience and knowledge to attempt certification as either a PHR or an SPHR. Assess the results of your exam preparation strategies (if you purchase the two-exam pre- and post-test package.)

Marietta, GA: Are the scores of the PHR testing made public?

HRCI: The scores are confidential. Only the candidate receives their official score.

Houston, TX: I graduated on May 15, 2007. Am I eligible to sit for the test between May1 - May 14, 2008?

HRCI: You will be able to test between May 1 - June 30, 2008.

Washington, DC: I have submitted an on-line application to take the PHR exam. Once the application is reviewed and approved, what can I expect next?

HRCI: The application is reviewed within 2 weeks. You will receive a letter from our testing office with instructions to schedule the exam with our vendor Prometric testing centers.

Kansas City, MO: Do you have to be an exempt level employee now to take the exam in May? My previous position was exempt, but this one is not.

HRCI: No, your two years of exempt-level (professional) HR work experience need not be current or sequential; however, more recent experience is more likely to coincide with the exam's content.

Birmingham, AL: I am torn between joining a SHRM study group or just purchasing the SHRM Learning System to study on my own. The commitment to the group is overwhelming since they cram 8 study sessions into the month of March and I can't do that right now. I must decide if I should study for it now on my own to take in May/June or wait and take the study course in the fall. Any advice?

HRCI: Our advice is to study from various sources and to be realistic as the time devoted you may need when studying for the exam.

Santa Clara, CA: If I get the PHR first then later the SPHR, how do I go about keeping both at their current certification levels? Do I have to take double the amount of CE units? Or do some CE classes count towards both?

HRCI: If you get the PHR first and then the SPHR, the SPHR supersede the PHR, therefore, you only need 60 hours to keep your SPHR at the end of your 3 years cycle.

Homewood, Alabama: Where can I see all the information that will be on the exam without purchasing the $595 SHRM Learning System? I am trying to decide if I should take it or not since my focus is recruiting, but I'd like to be knowledgeable in all HR areas.

HRCI: The areas that you will be tested on are listed on Appendix A "Test Specifications" in the HRCI handbook. Here is the link for your convenience, /Certification/2008HB/APX-A/

Winchester, VA: What can I do if the employer I last worked for (6 1/2 years ago) which is where I began my duties in the HR generalist arena, is unable to provide me with any documentation? It is a large company (100,000+ employees) and due to layoffs at the time I also was laid off, all of the people I worked directly with are also no longer there?

HRCI: You are responsible for submitting any documentation as needed. If you are referring to an audit, the company's HR department would be able to verify employment.

Austell, GA: I graduated in June with a Masters in Human Resource Management. I don't have any direct HR experience and was told that if I took the PHR certification exam, it would show that I'm serious about getting into HR, any thoughts?

HRCI: If you graduated in June 2007, you can apply for the PHR as recent graduate during the May-June testing window only. After passing the exam, you can not use the designation, but you can list it on your resume as a demonstration of your HR knowledge and interest in the field. Please review the HRCI handbook online and refer to the student or recent graduate eligibility requirement for the entire policy.

Tallahassee, FL: I submitted a completed application on 02/29 and the confirmation page stated that "candidates with successfully transmitted applications will receive an email within 24 hours". I have not received an email, should I contact PES to ensure my application has been received?

HRCI: I would highly suggest contacting PES for confirmation. Their phone number is 866-744-4724.

San Francisco, CA: Is worth while to take both the PHR and SPHR exams during the same timeframe?

HRCI: That is a personal decision. However, candidates can apply for both exams during the same time frame by the application deadlines.

Houston/Texas: I have been a Generalist for the past 7 years in the same company (Hospitality Industry). While studying for the exam, I have realized that some of the SPHR questions are right down my alley. Without having experience in a different industry, do you suggest I take the PHR or the SPHR? Thank you.

HRCI: We are unable to advise you on which exam to choose. The PHR exam deals with day to day and technical aspects of the field and the SPHR exam is more focused on strategic management and the policies issues of the field.

Monterey, CA: For the upcoming application deadline on March 14, do you just need to have submitted your online application by the 14th?

HRCI: Correct. Your application can be submitted electronically no later than 11:59 pm ET or the paper application can be postmarked March 14.

Gambrills, MD: I am currently working part-time as an instructor teaching behavior modification. I have never worked in an HR department, but have 2 years HR experience as a Staffing Coordinator for a temp agency from 1995-1997. I have an MBA 02 and an Executive Graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management 06. Can I sit for the PHR exam?

HRCI: If you have at least two years of exempt-level (professional) HR work experience you may apply for the exam. Your two years of exempt-level (professional) HR work experience need not be current or sequential, more recent experience is more likely to coincide with the exam's content.

San Francisco, CA: I am in the process of moving to another state. Is possible to have the letter with the instructions regarding the test sent via email rather than to a home address?

HRCI: The letters are sent via mail. However, your authorization to test letter can be also retrieved from your online record once you are approved to sit for the exam.

Boston, MA: What is the benefit of having a dual PHR/SPHR certification?

HRCI: Because of the nature of the exams and their common body of knowledge, the PHR and SPHR designations cannot be held concurrently. The SPHR supersedes the PHR.

Lake Buena Vista, FL: Just to confirm my understanding: If I submit my application by the deadline, I will be able to take the exam anytime during the testing window, right up to the June 30, closing date?

HRCI: That is correct. Once you are authorized to take the exam you will select your exam date and testing center location of your preference upon your availability. All instructions to complete the scheduling process are listed in your letter and also the HRCI handbook.

Half Moon Bay, CA: I have not yet completed the application to take the test. About how much time should I plan to set aside to complete it?

HRCI: You should probably set aside approximately 30 minutes.

Austin, TX: What if I don't pass the PHR exam on the first try? Can I try again?

HRCI: Yes, if you take the exam and do not pass you will be able to reapply and repay all fees in the next testing window.

AtlantaGeorgia: I am exempt level but only have been working in the HR field for 2 months, Do you think I should wait to take the exam or if I study the material I will be fine.

HRCI: You must have 2 years of HR exempt level to sit for the exam. The exam is based on HR exempt level work experience. You may want to study your materials closer to your exam time.

Little Rock, AR: Do we receive a pass/fail result right after we complete the PHR exam?

HRCI: Yes you do. However, your official scores are mailed to you within 3 weeks from your exam date.

Little Rock, AR: I know the testing centers allow for 4 1/2 hours to complete the PHR exam. But, what is the average time that it takes to complete the PHR exam?

HRCI: We do not have statistics on the average time. We suggest using the given time to answer all the questions.

Lake Buena Vista, FL: Are the tests administered in groups according to a fixed schedule or to individuals based on appointments?

HRCI: The tests are administered individually at Prometric testing centers.

Altoona, PA: Since the test is now electronic, if you need to skip a question, are you able to go back and review the exam to relook at skipped questions?

HRCI: Yes, you can mark questions to come back to later.

Half Moon Bay, CA: Do you suggest taking the self assessment tests prior to attending a prep course or between the course and the time of the actual test?

HRCI: You will probably want to take the assessment exam before your preparation course begins. That way you will know which are will need more concentration when you are studying for the exam.

AtlantaGeorgia: I am sorry I submitted a question earlier. I have been in the HR field for 2years at exempt level 1 year and 10 months as benefits person and the last 2 months on the operation side. Do you I still should take the test now or later.

HRCI: You can apply for the exam now. Remember, all you need is 2 years of HR exempt level.

Moderator: Thank you for your participation! The transcript will be posted to the website in the next week.