In a huge move, the ICRM has announced that Part 6 exams will be offered online to CRM candidates. This is a radical departure from the very secure, very controlled Pearson Vue test centres, but candidates who have been unable to write Part 6 due to COVID-19 restrictions will now be able to do so.
Parts 1 to 5 have been offered online since prior to COVID-19, and Part 6 follows a similar pattern. The window is open for 2 months, and can be written any time during the test-taking window. In Parts 1-5, candidates can retake the test if they are unsuccessful within a few days; in Part 6, however, candidates must wait until the next window opens (up to three months). The first window runs October 1 to November 30, with the second running January 1 to March 11, 2021.
My thoughts? I think it's the best that can be done under the circumstances. The draconian security of the Pearson Vue test centres is strict to the point of being off-putting, but it maintains the integrity of the CRM designation. You can't just waltz in and pass the exam! The concern, of course, is that unscrupulous candidates could cheat - they might have resources at their fingertips that wouldn't be allowed otherwise. Perhaps there are countermeasures; the exams are conducted by Examity, an organization that the ICRM has already been working with. Despite such risks, this is a fair compromise for those who are waiting and have made plans based on earning the credential. I applaud the ICRM for making a strong decision on this.
The next decision will be when to return to in-person testing for Part 6. I am sure the ICRM will be gathering information and metrics to see if Part 6 online testing is viable indefinitely, rather than just temporarily. Will be interesting to see.
For those of you looking for Part 6 - now you can do it! Register here. And please let me know if that's in your plans; I am still able to send study resources and can answer any questions you have.
Stay safe and stay strong!
Wayne Hoff, CRM
ICRM Liaison, Calgary ARMA
icrmrep.armacalgary@gmail.com
