In March 2006, CCGP transitioned its certification exams to Computer-Based Exam. For the last nine years, the exam was in a paper and pencil format that limited its administration to twice per year and in only a few locations throughout the United States, Canada and Australia.

This was certainly the preferred method for newly established certification programs, however it did create burdens for candidates. Travel costs and the need to be away from home and office for several days frequently served as obstacles for taking the exam. With CBE, these problems will be largely eliminated. Now, candidates will be able to take the exam five days per week during three annual testing windows (January/February, April/May, July/August and October/November) and at a location near to them. Applied Measurement Professionals, Inc. (AMP), CCGP's psychometric testing service, will administer the CBE exam. Exams are typically conducted at H&R Block Premium Centers where secure testing carrels are available. These locations will also provide services for candidates that require special examination accommodations.

In addition to reduced costs and time, using CBE to administer the exam has added benefits in that candidates will receive immediate score results. In effect, candidates who successfully pass the exam will be awarded certification throughout the year rather than only in January and July. This will essentially support the need for geriatric pharmacists to provide evidence of certification in a timelier manner, especially as institutions and payors adopt requirements for certification before reimbursement and patient care arrangements can be established.

While most pharmacists are familiar with CBE, by virtue of taking licensure exams by this method, computer experience is not needed. On the day of the examination, candidates will be given the opportunity to practice taking the exam. The time used for practice will not be counted as part of the exam time and will help a candidate become comfortable with the computer testing process.

A Candidate Guide that fully explains the process and exam policies can be downloaded from this website Request a Candidate Guide.