SHRM only offers the SHRM-CP during two testing windows a year, and the price depends on when you apply and whether you're a SHRM member. Missing a deadline can push your exam back by months. Here's what SHRM currently lists.
If you're planning for this winter: the early bird period for the Dec. 2026 to Feb. 2027 window closed on August 31, 2026. The standard application period runs September 1 through December 24, 2026.
Testing windows
You must apply during the application period tied to the window you want. SHRM deadlines close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern.
| Testing window | Early bird applications | Standard applications |
|---|---|---|
| May 1 – July 15, 2026 | Jan. 5 – Apr. 30, 2026 | May 1 – May 29, 2026 |
| Dec. 1, 2026 – Feb. 15, 2027 | June 3 – Aug. 31, 2026 | Sept. 1 – Dec. 24, 2026 |
Test center seats fill up, especially near the end of a window. Schedule your Prometric appointment soon after you receive your Authorization to Test (ATT).
Exam fees
SHRM's listed prices apply to both the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. Early bird rates include a $50 nonrefundable application fee. Standard rates include that fee plus a $49 nonrefundable standard deadline fee.
| Candidate type | SHRM member | Nonmember |
|---|---|---|
| Early bird | $350 | $450 |
| Standard | $399 | $499 |
| Military, early bird / standard | $320 / $369 | $420 / $469 |
| Student, early bird / standard | $150 / $199 | $250 / $299 |
Military and student rates have their own eligibility rules on SHRM's site. SHRM also offers reduced corporate rates when an organization certifies five or more employees.
What certification really costs
The exam fee is only part of the budget. A realistic total includes:
- Exam fee: $350 to $499 for most candidates.
- Study materials: anywhere from the free BASK to a full prep course costing several hundred dollars or more.
- Practice questions: the part of prep most tied to exam performance.
- Retake risk: if you don't pass, you pay to test again in a later window. Good preparation is the cheapest insurance.
- Recertification: the credential is maintained on a three-year cycle through professional development credits or retesting. Check SHRM's recertification page for current fees.
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Start 50 Free Questions →Five ways to spend less
- Apply early bird. It saves $49 compared with the standard rate.
- Do the membership math. Members save $100 on the exam. Compare that against current membership dues and whether you'll use other member benefits.
- Ask your employer. Many organizations reimburse certification costs. Ask before you pay.
- Check the student rate. If you qualify, it's the largest discount SHRM offers.
- Pass the first time. A retake costs more than any study resource. Put your budget into high-quality practice.
From application to test day
- Create a SHRM account and submit your application during the correct period.
- Pay the exam fee by credit card.
- Respond within 10 business days if your application is selected for a random audit.
- Receive your ATT and schedule with Prometric.
- Review the Prometric testing rules and ID requirements in the SHRM Certification Handbook.
- Take the exam in person at the test center.
Ready to plan your prep around your window? Start with our 12-week SHRM-CP study plan.
Source: SHRM Exam Options and Fees, accessed September 2026. Fees and dates can change; confirm with SHRM before applying.