Get Extra Credit™
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Hello! thanks for your interest in Extra Credit; this special program ended December 31, 2008. Of course, we continue to offer our stellar PM Certification programs in other ways. See our range of programs on this site.

Q: Why is asapm doing this?
A: In the movie “Field of Dreams,” a voice speaks to Kevin Costner and says, “if you build it, he will come.” Well, we think we have built a better certification program — one that combines the best of IPMA’s approach with the value of performance-based competencies. We believe that the Extra Credit program will generate interest in what we’ve built.

Q: What are the advantages of this program if I already have a certification?
A: Many organizations require IPMA certification for their employees or contractors. With "Extra Credit," you can meet that requirement.

Q: I have a certificate in project management, but it was only 100 contact hours. Can I combine that with other non-certificate courses to satisfy the 120 hour requirement?
A: No. All 120 hours have to come from the same program.

Q: What if my degree or certificate can't be verified through a public database?
A: If you can get us an official transcript (one that is sent directly to us from the institution or organization that provided your degree or certificate), that will suffice.

Q: What if my certification can't be verified through a public database?
A: Unfortunately, this means that you aren’t eligible for Extra Credit. Tools such as Photoshop make it so easy to create counterfeit credentials that we can’t rely on paper copies.

Q: Will there be a similar program available for the higher certification levels?
A: Yes and no. Yes, in that we may offer a similar program in 2009 for other certifications that use performance-based competence standards. But no if you were hoping to use a knowledge-based credential to attain Level C, B, or A. These higher levels all require evidence of actual, on-the-job performance.

Q: What are the renewal criteria?
A: There are none: Level D can only be renewed by sitting for the exam. We hope and expect that most Level D certificants will focus their attention on attaining Level C or B certification rather than renewing Level D.

Q: Why is the non-member fee so high?
A: We want to encourage everyone to join asapm!

Q: Where can I get a copy of the USA National Competence Baseline?
A: Go to USA-NCB, and follow the instructions there.

Q: What if the assessors reject my critique?
A: To be honest, we don’t expect to reject too many. The current Competence Element descriptions are at a fairly high level, and we know that all of them can be improved. In addition, identifying strengths and weaknesses provides you with a lot of latitude. Finally, there are 49 to choose from, so you can pick one where you can excel!

Q: Why must I live or work in the USA?
A: asapm is the USA Member Association in IPMA. As a result, our focus is on providing services to those who live and work in the US. If you don’t live in the US, go to the IPMA website for contact information for a Member Association where you live. If there isn’t one, consider starting one!