Frequently Asked Questions

If your question is not answered below, please contact us.

General
Certification Requirements
Preparing for the Exam
Applying for the Exam
Taking the Exam
Exam Results
Recertification

General

• What is certification?
• Why become certified?
• How is the Body of Knowledge created?
• How does the Certification Board oversee the certification program?
• What happens when new standards are published?
• How can I use certifications on my business cards?

Certification Requirements

• What are the work experience requirements?
• I don't have the required experience. Can I still get certified?
• What certifications have a maintenance requirement?
• What is the definition of a Six Sigma Project?
• What are some common questions about submitting a Six Sigma Project Affidavit?

Preparing for the Exam

• What can I study to help me pass the exam?
• What are some test-taking tips?

Applying for the Exam

• How can I apply for a certification exam?
• What is the payment policy?
• What are the policies regarding refunds, rescheduling, cancellations, late registration fee, and absences?
• Why does it cost $50 to reschedule a certification exam?
• Will I receive a confirmation that I've been approved to take my exam prior to the exam date?

Taking the Exam

• What is the format of the certification exam?
• What are the upcoming exam dates?
• What kind of calculator can I bring?
• Is the exam open-book?
• Can I bring water or food into the exam? 
• Where are certification testing locations near me?
• I do not live in the United States, Canada or Mexico. Can I be certified in my country?

Exam Results

• What is the exam-grading process?
• What is the passing score on a certification exam?
• How long does it take to get my exam results?
• If I'm a member, how can I check my certification results online?
• If I'm a non-member or Site member, can I check my certification exam results online? 
• What does the “status” message on my certification notice mean?
• I passed. What was my score?
• I did not pass. What is the retake policy?

Recertification

• Why should I recertify?
• How do I check my certifications and the expiration dates?
• What is a Recertification Chair, and how do I find and contact mine?
• How do I know if I need to recertify by exam?
• What is a recertification journal, and when do I need to submit mine?
• How do I know if a program qualifies for recertification units?
• How do I know if my employment will qualify for recertification units?
• Does part-time employment apply toward recertification units?
• I am unable to obtain past employer’s employment verification documentation. What other means of documentation may I use?
• Do local, state and national quality award activities qualify for recertification units?
• How do I submit electronic media (formerly videotapes) for recertification units?
• How can I get credit for volunteer activities with ASQ and other professional associations and organizations?
• I have authored/co-authored a book. Where should I enter this activity in the recertification journal?
• I delivered a presentation. Where should this activity be entered in the recertification journal?
• I don't have enough recertification units to recertify by my expiration date. What are my options?
• What is "synchronizing my certifications" and how do I do it?
• When should I expect my new card and certificate?