Please note that the information below may be changed or adjusted at any time. Always confirm details directly with the appropriate source.

When are the HR Basics and S/PHR prep classes offered?Both classes are offered twice a year: February through April and September through November.

Are the classes in person or virtual?
Classes are offered virtually and recorded. If you miss a session, you can access the recording to review the material.

How do I know which class to take?
HR Basics is primarily intended for individuals who do not have formal HR education but whose roles include some HR responsibilities. Most participants in HR Basics are not planning to sit for a certification exam, although they may be eligible to take the aPHR exam.

The S/PHR Prep Class is designed to help HR professionals prepare for the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP certification exams. They have some education and/or professional experience in HR.

How do I know which certification exam to take?
SHRM and HRCI are the two primary organizations that offer HR certifications. The PHR and SPHR certifications are offered through HRCI, while the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications are offered through SHRM. These certification exams cover the same HR topics, but their exam structures, areas of emphasis, and eligibility requirements may differ. Consider your professional experience, career goals, and eligibility when deciding which certification to pursue.

How much does certification cost?
Participation in a preparation course is separate from the cost of the certification exam and study materials.

PHR (Professional in Human Resources)
Application fee: $100
Exam fee: $395
Study materials: Approximately $375
Eligibility requirements apply

For eligibility requirements and additional information, visit:
PHR Certification – HRCI
HRCI Frequently Asked Questions

SHRM-CP (SHRM Certified Professional)
Application fee: $50
Exam fee: $350–$500; visit the SHRM website for current pricing.
Study materials: Approximately $375
No prior HR experience or degree is required.

SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources)
Application fee: $100
Exam fee: $495
Study materials: Approximately $375
Eligibility requirements apply.
For eligibility requirements and additional information, visit SPHR Certification - Requirements & Exam Info - HRCI
HRCI Frequently Asked Questions

SHRM-SCP (SHRM Senior Certified Professional)
Application fee: $50
Exam fee: $350–$500; visit the SHRM website for current pricing.
Study materials: Approximately $375
Eligibility requirements apply.
Please review SHRM's current eligibility requirements for details.
All fees and requirements should be confirmed with the respective certification organization before applying.

Am I required to purchase the study materials?
Although students are not required to purchase study materials, doing so is strongly encouraged for those taking the S/PHR Prep Class.
Participants in the HR Basics class do not need to purchase study materials. However, those interested in preparing for the aPHR exam can purchase materials for approximately $175–$315 through HRCP.

Both HRCI and SHRM offer their own study materials and preparation programs. However, our classes use HRCP materials, which are designed to prepare participants for the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, and SHRM-SCP exams.

Participants enrolled in the S/PHR Prep Class are encouraged to purchase the HRCP study materials. Used books from older editions may be available, but they may not include updated content or reflect changes to the exam.

HRCP materials are available at www.hrcp.com. Once you enroll in our prep class, you will receive a discount code for purchases through this website.

When should I schedule my exam?
We recommend taking your exam shortly after completing the prep class. Ideally, you should plan to test within one to two months of the class ending, while the material is still fresh.

Please note that SHRM has specific testing windows, and applications must be submitted in advance. Visit the SHRM website for current testing windows, application deadlines, and scheduling information.

Is financial assistance available?
If you would like to participate in our prep class but need financial assistance, please email certifications@fwhr.org. Although assistance is not guaranteed, we will explore available options.

Participants may also wish to speak with their employers about financial assistance for the preparation class, certification exam, and/or study materials.

How do I apply for a certification exam?

• HRCI 
• SHRM 

FAQ from HRCI and SHRM

• HRCI FAQ
• SHRM FAQ 

Helpful links

• HRCP 
• HRCI
• SHRM 
• Pearson VUE Test Centers 
• Prometric Test Centers