How to Apply

Winter Application Cycle Coming Soon
Apply: January 1-February 14
Exams: February 17-March 31

Becoming a Certified Student Affairs Educator is an exciting career milestone! This page offers several resources to help you get started in your certification application journey. Click the tabs below to explore information on getting started, virtual Q&A sessions, application steps, scholarships and exam prep, required documentation, and application/exam cycles. Visit the Candidate Handbook as the definitive source for information on earning and maintaining certification!

Getting Started - Certification Pathways

"What does it take to earn certification?" is a very common question! The Certification Pathways Simple Guide and corresponding infographic offer an easy, step-by-step process for you to determine the preparation approach that works best for you. Click the image below to access the Guide.

Use the following infographic to follow the steps for the corresponding application and exam cycle. The are four cycles every year with four chances to apply and take an exam.

Virtual Q&A Sessions

Join us for an upcoming virtual Q&A session to get your questions answered about Student Affairs Educator Certification! Dates will be listed in this space soon. We recommend watching this informational video prior to attending.

Applying for Certification

Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria are required to complete and submit the online application within the Consortium’s certification management system, Prolydian. If approved, they will be able to schedule an exam for the certification(s) for which they applied. 

Applicants will need to first create a profile in the Prolydian system. All elements of the application and certification maintenance will be maintained in the Prolydian system. Applicants with a documented disability who request assistance in completing the application should contact the Consortium at applications@studentaffairscertification.org.

Applicant Checklist:

The Consortium has created the following Applicant Checklist document to assist individuals with preparing to complete their online application in Prolydian. Applicants are welcome to use this checklist as a resource in gathering eligibility materials for their online application.

Application Documentation Required

Applicants will need to be prepared to submit the following supporting documentation at the time of their application. The Consortium recognizes that obtaining such documentation may be difficult or detrimental for individuals to acquire. Should you have a question or concern about the application documentation, please contact applications@studentaffairscertification.org to have a confidential conversation with a member of our staff. 

Review of Application and Notice of Status

Individuals will be notified of their application status within 30 business days of submitting a complete application. If approved, you will receive a verification email with instructions on how to register for your exam. If not approved, you will receive notification of next steps. If you have not received a confirmation email within 30 business days following online application submission, please contact applications@studentaffairscertification.org.

Application and Exam Cycles

Please note future cycle dates are subject to change. Check this page for any updates.