CRA Certification
Applications are no longer being accepted for the September 6 certification exam. The next exam will take place on March 7, 2009. Please check back in late-October for more information.
Important Information
Before beginning the application process, please read the appropriate CRA Certification Guide to determine if you meet the application criteria, as well as the Certification Exam Checklist which will help you prepare for the application process.
Prepare for Your Exam
Prepare for Your Exam with one of ACRP's classroom-based Certification Exam Review courses or online practice exams and prep packages. Find out more.
About CRA Certification
Academy certification is the formal recognition of clinical research professionals who have met the professional eligibility requirements and demonstrated job-related knowledge and skills. Certification is granted in recognition of documented and verified work experience and after successful performance on a multiple-choice exam.
In 1995 the first ACRP exam for CRAs was offered. Since then, over 6,350 CRAs
throughout FDA, EUR and ICH Regions have earned certification. A CRA is a professional who, regardless of job title, monitors the administration and progress of a clinical trial on behalf of a sponsor. The sponsor, whose intent is the research of pharmaceuticals, biologics, and/or
devices, may employ these individuals either directly or indirectly (via CROs or independent
consultants/contractors). The CRA must be independent of the investigative staff conducting the research at the site or institution, and should not be employed or supervised by the investigative site or the institution.
Certification is increasingly recognized by today's global clinical research industry. Major CROs and pharmaceutical companies now encourage CRA certification.Certification assists the public, healthcare professionals, and the industry itself by identifying standards for professional practice.
Based on a survey of CRA managers, those surveyed believed that enhanced professional standing, increased company marketability (for CROs), personal satisfaction, and enhanced recognition by peers and supervisors were the primary anticipated advantages for becoming certified.
View your appropriate regional CRA Certification Guide for more information.