FAQ and Resources: Frequently Asked Questions

An increasing number of employers are seeking software development professionals who have earned a CSDA or CSDP credential. In this very competitive and global economy, having one of these credentials is a great benefit to both you, the software development professional, as well as your employer. These coveted credentials provide a means of assessing your personal progress and will serve as a motivator for continuing your professional education.

The CSDA and CSDP certifications are the only two credentials that are based upon both an ISO-IEC Techincal Report and the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK Guide), an internationally-accepted consensus on industry-standard software practices.

Benefits for the Software Development Professional:

Distinguishes you with a credential that is based on the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK) Guide
Communicates to the world that you are up to date on established, industry-standard, software development practices
Demonstrates your commitment to expanding your knowledge and increasing your responsibilities
Motivates you to participate in professional activities and educational opportunities
Connects you with a network of software engineering professionals, all dedicated to advancing the profession
Equips you with an internationally-accepted software certification that is globally transportable

Employers:

Provides a solid professional foundation for your employees by using the SWEBOK Guide as a baseline of knowledge
Raises the competency level of your workforce, resulting in a more efficient and competitive workforce that produces higher quality software
Objectively measures an individual performer’s level of competence
Lowers the risk of hiring by providing an objective measurement to help select the right candidate for the job
Increases the overall pedigree and reputation of your company through internationally-accepted certifications
Enables your company to objectively respond to contracts and quotes with measurable software development skills

How do I register/apply for the certification exam?
Candidates have four options for registering/applying and submitting examination and registration/application payment.

Online: visit http://www.computer.org/certification, and go to CSDA or CSDP.
Fax: Candidates must complete and submit the registration/application form along with full registration/application fee. Fax to 1-866-489-5084.
Phone: Call toll free 1-866-681-7613. Candidates must also complete and submit the registration/application form via mail or online.
Mail: Candidates must complete and submit the registration/application form along with full registration/application fees. Mail form and payment to:
IEEE Computer Society, Certification
10662 Los Vaqueros Circle
Los Alamitos, CA 90720-3014

How much do certification exams cost?

	IEEE or CS Member	Non-member
CSDA Assessment Course	$245*	$345*
Total CSDA Examination Fee	$295*	$395*
CSDA Bundle package (assessment and exam)	$495*	$645*

	IEEE or CS Member	Non-member
CSDP Assessment Course	$345*	$445*
Total CSDP Examination Fee	$395*	$495*
CSDP Bundle package (assessment and exam)	$595*	$745*

* Certification exams are priced in US dollars. In some countries and regions, additional taxes may apply. Please contact csda@computer.org or csdp@computer.org or call 866-681-7613 for further information.
* Certification exam prices are subject to change.

What preparation options do you offer for your exams?
We have various preparation options for both the CSDA and CSDP examinations. Please visit the preparation pages at http:www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csda/prepare or http:www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csdp/prepare.

Do you have special pricing or offers for Certification & Professional Education products?
Yes, we do offer special pricing at various times of the year. For the latest offers, please visit our special offers page at http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/promos.

What type of payment is accepted?
We accept payment by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, check and wire transfer. Checks should be made payable to the Computer Society and drawn on a US bank. To pay by wire transfer, please follow the instructions below:

The net amount of US dollars received by the Society must equal the amount due. Please send sufficient funds to cover both the amount due and any charges which your bank may deduct. Please ask your bank to include the invoice number, and other identifying information such as name or item ordered in the reference information sent with the funds. For further wire transfer information, please contact certification@computer.org or call 866-681-7613.

In what countries are the IEEE CS certification programs available?
IEEE CS certification programs are available worldwide. For specific countries, please visit www.prometric.com/IEEE or contact IEEE CS at csda@computer.org or csdp@computer.org or call 866-681-7613 to locate a testing center near you.

How do the IEEE CS certification programs differ from certification programs from Microsoft and others?
Certification programs from Microsoft, Oracle and others are proprietary and product-specific, and they measure a certificate holder's knowledge in that particular product area. The IEEE CS has developed certification programs that are industry standard measurements of fundamental software engineering practices. Our certifications can be used by any company, in any industry, to develop and measure a baseline of knowledge for their software engineers/developers.

How will your certifications help an individual advance in his/her career? Are there any benefits for my company?
The impact of the certification credentials on your career opportunities will grow as the industry increasingly attaches value to this designation. Each year, more and more employers are expected to seek individuals who have earned certification. Attaining this certification will provide a means of assessing your personal progress in your occupation and will serve as a motivator for continuing your education.

What is the IEEE CS?
The IEEE Computer Society is the world's leading organization of computer professionals. Founded in 1946, it is the largest of the 39 societies of the IEEE. Click here to read more.

How do I become a member of IEEE?
To become a member of IEEE simply click here and register.

What is your refund policy?
The IEEE Computer Society must receive all requests for cancellation in writing. You may fax your notice to the certification department at 1-866-489-5084 or e-mail it to certification@computer.org. Cancellations may only be made by the candidate. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE TO THIS POLICY. For more information, please download the latest Candidate Information Bulletin.

Where does the exam take place?
The exam will take place in a Prometric Testing Center. Click here to locate a testing center near you.

What are the exam registration details and the "Test Day" rules of engagement?
To find out all the details about exam registration and what to do on "Test Day", download the CSDA or CSDP bulletin.

Where can I read testimonials?
We have a variety of success stories and testimonials for you to view. Simply click here and begin reading and listening to all the successful individuals.

Where can I find the public list of references used to design the questions for the certification exams?
The reference list can be found on the SWEBOK page here.

CSDA Examination

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What are the qualifications to take the CSDA?
There are no qualifications needed to register for the CSDA.

How do I become a CSDA credential holder?
There are 3 steps to becoming certified:

Register for the exam.
Prepare for the exam.
Take the exam.

Therefore, the time it takes to complete certification depends on how much time each individual dedicates to preparing for the exam.

What preparation materials are available for the CSDA exam? Where can I find them?
There are many preparation materials available. IEEE CS recommends the CSDA Assessment Course to prepare for the exam. For more information and to purchase the Assessment Course, please visit http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csda/prepare.

How will the CSDA Assessment Course help me to prepare for the exam?
The Assessment Course has four modules. After purchasing the CSDA Assessment Course, the candidate may assess their knowledge of the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK). This self-paced, online course is for entry-level software development professionals and contains four modules that span the 15 knowledge areas (KAs) of the new SWEBOK Guide Version 3.

Module 1: Software Engineering Development
Module 2: Software Maintenance and Management
Module 3: Software Engineering Support Processes
Module 4: Foundations

Each module features in-line quizzes on topics so that you will be able to track your progress every step of the way. Online access is available for 6 months.

What is the cost for the CSDA Assessment Course?
The CSDA Assessment Course costs $245 for members and $345 for non-members. CSDA Assessment Course prices are subject to change.

CSDP Examination

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What are the qualifications to take the CSDP?
If you are a Senior Member of IEEE or a licensed software engineer, no further qualifications are necessary. All other candidates are required to meet both Education and Experience requirements to be qualified for the examination:
Education (must have at least one):

I have a bachelor's degree.
I am a CSDA certificate holder.
I am an educator at the post-secondary level.
I am a full member of the IEEE.

Experience (must have at least one):

I have an advanced degree in software engineering and at least two years (about 3,500 hrs) of experience in the software industry.
I have at least four years (about 7,000 hrs) of experience in the software industry.

How do I become a CSDP credential holder?
There are 3 steps to becoming certified:

Apply for the certification exam.
Prepare for the exam.
Take the exam.

Therefore, the time it takes to complete certification depends on how much time each individual dedicates to preparing for the exam.

What preparation materials are available for the CSDP exam? Where can I find them?
There are many preparation materials available. IEEE CS recommends the CSDP Assessment Course to prepare for the exam. For more information and to purchase the Assessment Course, please visit http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csdp/prepare.

The IEEE CS recommends the candidate prepare for the exam with the SWEBOK Guide. The SWEBOK Guide can be purchased at http://www.computer.org/portal/web/swebok. We also have an excellent selection of workbooks, resource guides, a CD, primary references, and sample exam questions. These recommended study materials can be found at http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csdp/prepare.

How will the CSDP Assessment Course help me to prepare for the exam?

The Assessment Course has eight modules. After purchasing the CSDP Assessment Course, the candidate may assess their knowledge of the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK). This self-paced, online course is for experienced software development professionals and contains eight modules that span the 15 knowledge areas (KAs) of the new SWEBOK Guide Version 3.

Module 1: Software Requirements
Module 2: Software Design
Module 3: Software Construction and Methods
Module 4: Software Testing
Module 5: Software Maintenance and Configuration Management
Module 6: Software Engineering Management, Professional Practices and Economics
Module 7: Software Engineering Process and Quality
Module 8: Foundations

Each module features in-line quizzes on topics so that you will be able to track your progress every step of the way. Online access is available for 6 months.

What is the cost for the CSDP Assessment Course?
The CSDP Assessment Course is a one time fee of $345 for members and $445 for non-members. The SWEBOK reference book is available for $55.00 for members and $65.00 for non-members. Primary references are available for free. CSDP sample exam questions are available for free after completing a contact questionnaire.

Exam Information

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How do I reschedule or cancel my scheduled examination appointment?
For rescheduling or cancelling your scheduled examination, you must contact the IEEE Computer Society at certification@computer.org or call 866-681-7613 before proceeding with Prometric as an additional fee will be charged to you. If your scheduled examination appointment is less than 30 days and you decide to reschedule or cancel through Prometric prior to contacting IEEE Computer Society, you will still be charged with the fees below.

Cancellation/Reschedule	Cancellation/Reschedule Fees
30 ore more days before exam date	No Additional Charge
15-29 days before scheduled exam date	$50 Charge
6-14 days before scheduled exam date	$75 Charge
Less than 5 days before exam date	$150 Charge

Where and when can I take the CSDA/CSDP exam?

The CSDA/CSDP exam takes places in a Prometric Testing Center. We support testing in various centers across the world. Please visit the following website to locate a testing center near you: http://www.prometric.com/IEEE/default.htm. There are different testing windows and deadlines to take the CSDA/CSDP exam. Please view the table below for important dates.

Testing Window	Registration Deadline
20 May - 30 June 2012	30 May 2012
18 November - 29 December 2012	29 November 2012

I have a disability that might affect my ability to take a certification exam. What accommodations are available?
Prometric requires written documentation of the disability from the candidate's doctor or another qualified medical professional. There is no extra fee for making these arrangements. Special accommodations are granted to give a candidate the opportunity to be tested in an equivalent manner as other candidates, but not to provide an advantage over other candidates.

How should I interpret my score report?
The scale score for the certification exam ranges from 120 to 200, with the passing point at a scaled score of 170. If you receive a scale score equal to or greater than 170, your score report will have only the word "PASS." If you receive a scaled score less than 170, you will have a numeric scaled score and the word "FAIL." The score report will also include diagnostic information to help the unsuccessful candidate identify strengths and weaknesses in the different content areas of the exam.

What if I do not pass the CSDA/CSDP exam? Is there an opportunity to retake the exam? When can I retake the exam?
If you do not pass the CSDA/P, you will receive a numeric scaled score and the word "Fail" immediately following the examination. The score report will also include diagnostic information to help the unsuccessful candidate identify strengths and weaknesses in the different examination areas. The candidate has the opportunity to retake the exam after 30 days. You may be eligible for a discount when retaking the exam. For more information, please contact certification@computer.org or call 866-681-7613.

Professional Education

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What preparation materials are available for the CSDA/P exam? Where can I find them?

There are many preparation materials available. IEEE CS recommends the CSDA/P Assessment Courses to prepare for the exam. For more information and to purchase the Assessment Courses, please visit http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csda/prepare or http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csdp/prepare.

How will the CSDA/P Assessment Course help me to prepare for the exam?

The CSDA Assessment Course has four modules. After purchasing the CSDA Assessment Course, the candidate may assess their knowledge of the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK). This self-paced, online course is for entry level software development professionals and contains four modules that span the 15 knowledge areas (KAs) of the new SWEBOK Guide Version 3.

Module 1: Software Engineering Development
Module 2: Software Maintenance and Management
Module 3: Software Engineering Support Processes
Module 4: Foundations

Each module features in-line quizzes on topics so that you will be able to track your progress every step of the way. Online access is available for 6 months.

The CSDP Assessment Course has eight modules. After purchasing the CSDP Assessment Course, the candidate may assess their knowledge of the Software Engineering Body of Knowledge (SWEBOK). This self-paced, online course is for experienced software development professionals and contains eight modules that span the 15 knowledge areas (KAs) of the new SWEBOK Guide Version 3.

Module 1: Software Requirements
Module 2: Software Design
Module 3: Software Construction and Methods
Module 4: Software Testing
Module 5: Software Maintenance and Configuration Management
Module 6: Software Engineering Management, Professional Practices and Economics
Module 7: Software Engineering Process and Quality
Module 8: Foundations

Each module features in-line quizzes on topics so that you will be able to track your progress every step of the way. Online access is available for 6 months.

What is the cost for the CSDA/P Assessment Course?

The CSDA Assessment Course costs $245 for members and $345 for non-members. The CSDP Assessment Course costs $345 for members and $445 for non-members. CSDA/P Assessment Course prices are subject to change.

Logos

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How do I use the certification logo, and what are my rights and responsibilities when I use it?
Candidates who successfully complete the IEEE Computer Society certification requirements and who enter into the Certification Candidate Agreement may use the certification logo as a graphic symbol to demonstrate to clients their expertise. Please visit http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/resources/logo_usage to request the CSDA or CSDP logo.

Can I add the certification designation to my business card and resume?
Yes, you can add the certification designation to your business card and resume throughout the period of certification. The current logos for certification will remain usable by those who have achieved those credentials.

How do I obtain the logos?
Once you have completed and passed the certification exam, please visit http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/resources/logo_usage to receive the digital logos?

Recertification

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Does the CSDA require recertification?
No, the CSDA does not require recertification.

Does the CSDP require recertification?
Yes, the CSDP requires recertification every three years. Please go to http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csdp/recertification for more details.

Why should I keep my certification current?
By keeping your certification current, you are demonstrating that you are a leader in your field with the expertise and skills needed to meet the diverse technical challenges of today's business.

How do I get recertified for the CSDP?
For recertification, you must apply to take the exam or apply for the exam waiver. A minimum of 30 Professional Development Units (PDU) credits must be earned over the three-year reporting period. For the recertification application, please visit http://www.computer.org/portal/web/certification/csdp/recertification.

How much does recertification cost?

	Examination Fee	Recertification Fee
IEEE or CS Member	$345	$200
Non-member	$445	$300

* A late fee of $100 will be charged if payment is received later than certificate holder's recertification deadline.
* Members receive a $100 discount on examination fees or recertification administration fees.
* Certification is priced according to currency values in specific countries and regions. In some countries and regions, additional taxes may apply.
* Certification prices are subject to change.

Qualifications: Definitions

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Licensed Software Engineer
Someone who is licensed as a professional engineer in their own country or state. Currently the state of Texas, some Canadian provinces, the United Kingdom, and Australia require that their software engineers be licensed. A licensed software engineer is automatically qualified to take the CSDP examination.

Full member of the IEEE
Members may join the Computer Society alone or in conjunction with the IEEE. Candidates must meet one of the following qualifications for IEEE membership:

Electrical engineer or computer scientist graduated from a recognized educational degree program
A related degree plus three years of applicable professional experience
Six years of applicable professional experience

Senior member of the IEEE
Computer Society members who are also regular members of the IEEE. The Senior member requires experience reflecting professional maturity. Senior members must be engineers, scientists, educators, technical executives, or originators in designated fields. Senior members must have professional practice for at least ten years and should have active professional practice over at least five of those years. This should include one or more of the following:

Substantial engineering responsibility or achievement
Publication of engineering or scientific papers, books, or inventions
Technical direction or management of important scientific or engineering work with evidence of accomplishment
Recognized contributions to the welfare of the scientific or engineering profession
Development or furtherance of important scientific or engineering courses or a recognized education program
Contributions equivalent to those of 1 and 5 above in areas such as technical editing, patent prosecution, or patent law, provided these contributions serve to advance progress substantially in IEEE-designated fields

Educator at the baccalaureate level
In North America, the qualification for a full-time educator is one who teaches 16 units per quarter or 12 units per semester in one year.

Advanced degree with two years of experience
Master's degree or further and two years of work experience in software engineering/development.

Tax, Customs, Shipping & Handling Fees

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What additional charges are added to each Certification Exam and/or Assessment Course order?
Handling charges (if applicable), sales tax (if applicable), and non-US or priority freight (if either is applicable) will be automatically added to your order.

What countries and US states have sales taxes applied to each Certification Exam and/or Assessment Course order?
Purchaser or Licensee shall be solely responsible for all taxes associated with the purchase of these products or services, which includes sales, withholding taxes and all other taxes.
For Certification Exams
Within the US: Please add applicable state/county/local sales tax for shipments to NM and WV.
Within Canada: Residents of New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia, please add the HST of 13% to order total (including shipping & handling charges). Residents of other provinces, please add the GST of 5% to the order total.
For Assessment Courses
Within the US: Please add applicable state/county/local sales tax for shipments to AL, AX, CO, DC, IN , KY, NJ, NM and WV.
Within Canada: Residents of New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia, please add the HST of 13% to order total (including shipping & handling charges). Residents of other provinces, please add the GST of 5% to the order total.
Within Europe: Residents of European Union Countries

Refund Policy

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What is the refund policy for an examination purchase?

Examination Refunds	Member	Non-member
Cancellation prior to scheduling examination with Prometric	Exam fee - $50	Exam fee - $50
Cancellation after scheduling examination with Prometric	Exam fee - $150	Exam fee - $150
Cancellation within five (5) days of examination	No Refund	No Refund

What is the refund policy for a course purchase?

Course Refunds	Member	Non-member
Cancellation within 2 weeks of initial purchase	Full Refund	Full Refund
Cancellation after 2 weeks from initial purchase	No Refund	No Refund

What is the refund policy for a bundle purchase?

Bundle Refunds*	Member	Non-member
Cancellation within 3 months of initial purchase	50% Refund	50% Refund
Cancellation from 3 to 6 months from initial purchase	33% Refund	33% Refund
Cancellation after 6 months from initial purchase	No Refund	No Refund

*Please note: Bundle refunds are only accepted if cancellation is prior to scheduling an examination with Prometric.

FAQ and Resources: Frequently Asked Questions

General

CSDA Examination

CSDP Examination

Exam Information

Professional Education

Logos

Recertification

Qualifications: Definitions

Tax, Customs, Shipping & Handling Fees

Refund Policy

FAQ Categories