CRA Certification
The application period for the March 2010 exam is now closed. Please check back in June to apply for the September 2010 exam.
Exam Dates: Sept. 16-25, 2010
Application Deadline: July 12, 2010
(July 13-26, 2010 with a $150 late fee)
The CRA certification program has been significantly enhanced for 2010 with a new globally-harmonized exam and computer-based testing. These enhancements also offer you more flexibility in terms of exam eligibility and and a wider choice of test sites and times available for your convenience.
Because of the enhancements it is imperative that you read the CRA Certification Guide in full before applying for and taking the CRA Certification Exam.
ACRP encourages Online Exam Registration; however, if you need to pay by check you may utilize the printable application form.
About CRA Certification
Academy certification is the formal recognition of clinical research professionals who have met the professional eligibility requirements and demonstrated job-related knowledge and skills.
Certification is granted in recognition of documented and verified work experience, education and after successful performance on a multiple-choice exam.
In 1995 the first ACRP exam for CRAs was offered. Since then, more than 7,600 CRAs throughout FDA, EUR and ICH Regions have earned certification.
A CRA is a professional who, regardless of job title, monitors the administration and progress of a clinical trial on behalf of a sponsor whether from a field monitoring or in-house monitoring perspective. The sponsor, whose intent is the research of pharmaceuticals, biologics, and/or devices, may employ these individuals either directly or indirectly (via CROs or independent consultants/contractors). The CRA must be independent of the investigative staff conducting the research at the site or institution, and should not be employed or supervised by the investigative site or the institution. Certification is increasingly recognized by today's global clinical research industry. Major CROs and pharmaceutical companies now encourage CRA certification. Certification assists the public, healthcare professionals, and the industry itself by identifying standards for professional practice. Based on a survey of CRA managers, those surveyed believed that enhanced professional standing, increased company marketability (for CROs), personal satisfaction, and enhanced recognition by peers and supervisors were the primary anticipated advantages for becoming certified.