Tuesday 1 September 2020

Online Testing for Part 6 Exams

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