UPDATED /CONFIRMED DATES:
What are the main changes in the new content outline?
Some of the content areas have been reorganized, renamed, or reweighted to better reflect current roles and responsibilities. Here are the overall themes
-
Language has shifted from “develop, lead, design” to “participate, assist, recognize, monitor.
Can you provide a side-by-side comparison of the current and updated content outlines?
Below is a summary comparing the updated (2025) and current (2020) content outlines:
|
Domain
|
Updated (2025 → Effective 5/22/2026)
|
Current (2020 → Available thru 5/11/2026
|
Key Changes
|
|
1. Processes to Identify Infectious Diseases
|
14 items; more applied tasks (recognize, identify, differentiate); expanded topics like stewardship and emerging threats
|
13 items; broader, interpretive focus
|
Slightly more detailed and hands-on
|
|
2. Surveillance & Epidemiologic Investigation
|
17 items; expanded on risk assessment, data, outbreak investigation; focus on assisting
|
14 items; higher-level design and planning
|
Shift toward applied participation; item count ↑
|
|
3. Preventing/Controlling Transmission of Infectious Agents
|
14 items; emphasizes Standard/Transmission-Based Precautions, stewardship, emergency preparedness
|
14 items; policy development focus
|
NEW emphasizes practical skills and tasks
|
|
4. Employee/Occupational Health
|
7 items; partner with Occupational Health on exposures, education, follow-up
|
7 items; develop programs and policies
|
Shift from program creation → partnership and application
|
|
5. Management & Communication of IP Program
|
7 items; focus on QI tools, communication, reporting
|
9 items; emphasized program goals and leadership
|
Smaller domain; shift to communication and applied QI
|
|
6. Education & Research
|
6 items; practical focus on feedback, assessing effectiveness, reporting findings
|
8 items; broader scope, including training and critical appraisal
|
More focused, task-based
|
|
7. Environment of Care
|
10 items; emphasis on monitoring, collaborating, evaluating cleaning practices; added pathogens
|
9 items; focus on planning/design and environmental safety
|
More operational, less planning-heavy
|
|
8. Cleaning, Disinfection, Sterilization of Medical Devices & Equipment
|
10 items; identify methods, assist with reviews, audits
|
11 items; evaluate practices, direct oversight
|
Slightly fewer items; more applied
|
|
TOTAL
|
85 scored items / 100 questions
|
85 scored items / 100 questions
|
Redistribution toward surveillance and applied practice
|
Why is the exam changing?
The exam is being updated to reflect the results of a recent job task analysis (JTA), which ensures that the content accurately represents current practice in the field.
What is a job task analysis (JTA)?
A JTA is a systematic study of what professionals in the field actually do—the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for competent performance. It forms the foundation for the exam blueprint.
How often does CBIC conduct a JTA?
Typically, every 4–5 years, or whenever significant changes occur in practice, standards, or regulations.
Who participated in the JTA?
Subject matter experts and practicing professionals from various settings contributed to ensure a broad and representative perspective.
When will the new content outline take effect?
The updated outline will apply to all exams administered on and after May 22, 2026.
Are there any blackout dates when the exam will not be available to take?
Yes, candidates will not be able to take the exam from May 12-21, 2026
How long will the old content outline remain in effect?
The current outline remains valid until May 11, 2026. Candidates testing before that date will take the exam based on the current (2020) blueprint.
Will the number of questions or exam length change?
No, the number of questions (100, 85 of which are scored) and time limit (2 hours), will not change.
Which of the two exams is easier?
Neither exam is easier or harder. The updated exam reflects the most current job tasks and expectations for a minimally qualified candidate. The standard of competence being measured stays the same — what changes is how the exam aligns with today’s practice.
How should I prepare for the new exam?
Review the updated content outline and align your study materials accordingly. Reference materials and prep courses from non-CBIC organizations may also be updated to reflect the new blueprint.
Can I still use my old study materials?
Much of the content will still be relevant, and you should also verify that your materials align with the new outline to avoid gaps in preparation.
Will there be updated prep materials or practice exams?
While CBIC may not offer course and prep materials, APIC and other organizations may have updated materials available closer to the implementation date.
Should I take the exam before or after the new blueprint goes into effect?
This depends on your readiness and familiarity with the old vs. new content areas. If you’re already studying under the old outline, you might prefer to test before the change.
Will my certification be affected by which version of the exam I take?
No. The a-IPC™ credential remains the same regardless of which content outline version you were tested on.
Will the passing standard (cut score) change?
The passing standard is periodically reviewed and may be adjusted after the new form is implemented to ensure fairness and validity.
Does the new outline mean the profession has changed significantly?
Not necessarily—it reflects shifts in emphasis, emerging issues, and evolving responsibilities in practice.