How much does the initial certification examination cost?
The initial certification examination costs $375.
What type of degree do I need to apply?
A post-secondary degree from an accredited institution
OR
A three-year diploma RN degree (applicable through December 31, 2020).
What happens if I'm a diploma RN after December 31, 2020?
You must have an Associate’s degree or higher from an accredited academic institution. After December 31, 2020 Diploma RN’s will not be eligible to sit for the CIC® examination. Candidates with a diploma RN degree who have obtained CIC® certification prior to the December 31, 2020 cut off date will still be able to sit for the recertification examination during forthcoming recertification years. If a certificant lapses and only holds a diploma RN, they will not be eligible to take the initial exam.
I’m an LPN/LVN. Can I sit for the CIC exam?
No. In order to sit for the CIC exam, you must meet the education requirements which include having an RN Diploma or associate degree or higher from a post-secondary institution. LPN/LVN training is considered a certificate/vocational program, which is why it doesn't meet the education requirement.
Is there a specific degree I need to hold to apply?
So long as you have a post-secondary degree from an accredited institution, your specific degree does not matter.
Do you have to have a certain job title to apply?
You do not need to have a certain job title to apply. However, below are some job titles that may fit the CIC requirements:
- Infection Preventionist
- Infection Control Link Nurse
- RN Infection Preventionist
- Epidemiologist (also includes Hospital Epidemiologist)
- Research Analyst (ICP/Epidemiology related)
How do I apply?
To apply for initial certification, you will need to fill out an application. The online and paper application for the initial certification examination can be accessed here. For step-by-step instructions on applying for the initial certification examination, view our video tutorial.
Can I send my application materials prior to applying?
No, you must complete the entire application process.
Do you pre-screen candidate applications?
No. CBIC does not pre-screen candidate applications. It is highly recommended you review all the eligibility requirements prior to applying.
Do you offer a print version of the test?
No, we only offer computer based testing through Prometric.
Can I take the CIC® exam to help me apply for a job in infection prevention?
No, as part of the eligibility requirements for the exam, you must provide a current job description and attestation statement showing your responsibility over infection prevention and control procedures.
However, there are no eligibility requirements for the a-IPC.
What happens if I apply and I am found out to be ineligible?
You will receive a full refund of $375 if your eligibility is not approved.
Do I have to reapply if I failed my exam?
It’s up to you. If you would like to become certified, you will need to successfully pass the initial certification examination.
Do I have to pay again to reapply?
Yes. You must pay the full application fee of $375 to reapply.
How long do I have to wait to apply if I failed?
You can apply to retake the exam immediately if you are applying for the initial exam. For recertification, please allow 5 business days for your information to be updated in the system as you will need to take the proctored recertification exam.
What do I have to submit if I am reapplying?
You will need to submit any supporting documentation and payment again.
I don’t meet all the eligibility requirements. What can I do?
If you are still interested in obtaining certification, continue to review the eligibility requirements to determine the steps you need to take to become eligible. You can also sign up for the CBIC newsletter for certification and eligibility updates, as well as view other educational opportunities through our partner organization, APIC: https://apic.org/.
If you are still interested in certification, consider the Associate - Infection Prevention and Control (a-IPC) entry-level examination. More information about the a-IPC can be found here.