NICEP CERTIFICATION
QUALIFYING EXAMINATION GUIDELINES
EXAM FORMAT
The CEP® Qualifying Examination is a very challenging exam covering all of the content in the Certified Estate Planner™ Course. Each exam attempt is composed of 100 multiple choice questions taken randomly from a large bank of test questions and proportionally from all 8 Modules. Exam questions are worded in such a way as to verify that you have a competent grasp of the subject matter. You will have a 3 hour window to complete the exam. Successful completion of the CEP® Certification program requires a minimum score of 70%. Retakes are not uncommon. You will be given up to three attempts to successfully complete the program.
The NICEP employs a secure online exam platform and requires that each qualifying examination be taken in a “closed book” format and administered by a qualified Proctor. You will utilize a single computer, laptop, tablet or device (usually your own). Individuals with physical disabilities which necessitate certain accommodations such as additional test taking time, scribe, or reader, etc. should contact the NICEP for guidance on adapting the examination procedures as needed.
EXAM BROWSER
Safe Exam Browser installation is required to take the exam. This lock‐down browser software will safeguard the integrity of the examination. After successfully installing the Safe Exam Browser, you will be able to open the NICEP ‐ CEP® Qualifying Examination in the Safe Exam Browser by way of a link on your Course Resources page.
You can test the link at any time to make sure it opens properly. You will see that a Unique Access Code is required to proceed with the exam. This “one time” access code will be furnished directly to your Proctor and should only be entered when seated for the exam.
EXAM ENVIRONMENT
The exam environment should be clutter free, in an area with limited outside interference and where there is reliable internet connection. You may not use study materials, notes, or receive assistance with exam questions in any way. No other computers, mobile or electronic devices, including smart phones or watches are permitted. No calculator is needed.
EXAM DAY
Remember, there must be reliable access to the internet, and that a maximum duration of 3 hours has been set by the NICEP in the secure exam browser that you will use. On the day of your exam, you will click on the NICEP ‐ CEP® Qualifying Examination link mentioned above to begin your exam.
Screen #1: Your Proctor will enter or provide to you the Unique Access Code to unlock the qualifying examination.
Screen #2: You will enter your ID details and confirm your acknowledgement of the exam protocols.
Screen #3: Will ask you to read some brief instructions prior to to launching the examination and clicking “Start.”
Screen #4: Will start the 3‐hour clock and display your first question.
Breaks are permitted providing that the Proctor can assure exam integrity per the conditions above. Should an emergency arise during the exam (e.g. sudden illness, mandatory evacuation) resulting in a cancellation or incomplete exam, you and your Proctor should notify the NICEP at your earliest opportunity.
NOTE - After you complete the examination and confirm submission through the Safe Exam Browser, please remind your Proctor to complete and submit their Post-Exam Statement to the NICEP.