CKA Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Core Knowledge Assessment (CKA)?
The CKA is intended to be a tool to be used to demonstrate that the candidate possesses the knowledge contained in the ICH guidelines, specifically E2 (Safety Reporting), E6 (Good Clinical Practice), E8 (General Considerations for Clinical Trials). (www.ich.org)
Why should I take the Core Knowledge Assessment?
It is a way to demonstrate to your employer or a regulatory authority that you possess the standard of knowledge of the regulatory requirements for conducting clinical research studies. It is also useful to demonstrate to yourself that you have a comprehension of the ICH guideline content. It can serve as a first step in seeking certification. When the required two (2) years of experience is reached, the ACRP certification exam application can be submitted.
What does it mean to pass the CKA?
The CKA assesses your knowledge at a specific point in time and is valid for three (3) years. Over the course of the three years the guidelines and requirements may change and the CKA will change to maintain currency. ACRP believes that clinical research professionals should seek professional certification to establish themselves with their peers, their employer, regulatory authorities as competent in the conduct of clinical research. The expectation is that entry level research professionals who have passed the CKA apply to take one of ACRP's professional certification exams, as appropriate, when they have the required experience.
Will I receive a designation?
No. This is not a professional certification examination. Certification examinations test your ability to apply the regulatory requirements in practical settings. The CKA assesses a specific knowledge base of the ICH guidelines that relate to the conduct of clinical research studies. Passing the CKA is an accomplishment and should be listed on your resume/CV.
Will I receive a formal certificate?
No. You will receive an official ACRP score report with your results by each of the five sections of the CKA Detailed Content Outline. This score report can be used to determine areas of knowledge, strengths, and weaknesses to aid in your future study preparation should you need to retake the CKA.
What do I need to qualify?
There are no prerequisites to take the CKA. We do strongly recommend that a candidate takes an introductory education course in the fundamentals of clinical research.
How do I apply to take the CKA?
Complete the CKA application on the ACRP website and indicate the preferred month for taking the test. ACRP will send your application information to Applied Measurement Professionals (AMP), our testing agency, and they will send you a link to schedule taking the CKA at the location of your choice.
Where do I go to take the CKA?
Applied Measurement Professionals (AMP), our testing agency, contracts with 170+ Assessment Centers that have secure internet access. You may go to U.S. Assessment Centers or International Assessment Centers to view locations available for taking the test. There are limited international sites available at this time. Please check back often as new sites are being added.
How can I find directions to the chosen test site?
Assessment Center locations, detailed maps and directions are available on AMP's website, www.goAMP.com. Specific address information will be provided when a candidate schedules an appointment
How much time do I have to take the CKA?
Once you have been checked in at the test site, you will have ninety minutes to complete the test.
What is the CKA refund policy?
There are no refunds of the CKA application fee for cancellations. A candidate may reschedule an appointment for testing at no charge once by calling AMP at 888-519-9901 at least two (2) business days prior to the scheduled testing session.
If I am unable to take the CKA, can I substitute another colleague?
Substitutions are not permitted. Each candidate must submit an application separately to take the test.
If I have questions, who do I call?
Questions regarding the test site and score reports should be directed to AMP at (913) 895-4600 and ask for customer service. For questions regarding the application, payment, or general questions about the CKA, contact ACRP at (703) 254-8100.
Will I receive a confirmation of the appointment to take the test?
Yes, AMP will send an email confirmation of the appointment day, time, and location.
What if I need hotel accommodations?
When you schedule the appointment, go to the map of that Assessment Center and there is a link to local hotels in proximity to the Center.
How is the CKA different from existing ACRP certification programs?
Existing ACRP certification examinations are based on the ability to apply the knowledge of the regulatory requirements for clinical research in practical, real life situations. The CKA test assesses ones knowledge of the ICH guideline content.
When will I receive the results of the CKA?
You will receive the results of your test and a detailed score report at the test location. This document should be retained as proof of passing this test for your records.
If I lose the CKA score report, how do I get a duplicate?
The fee for receiving a duplicate score report is $25. A written request must be submitted to ACRP with either a check or credit card information and complete mailing address. The duplicate score report should be received within 30 days of the request.
If I do not pass the CKA, when can I retake it and what is the procedure for doing that?
The CKA test can be taken again by simply completing another application and paying the application fee. There is no limit on the number of times the test can be taken. It is recommended that returning candidates take remedial action to improve their comprehension of the ICH guideline content as the test questions change.