01/22/2026
One Path to AICP: APA's 2026 Changes
Beginning in 2026, the AICP certification process—known as One Path to AICP—will transition to expanded windows for all steps, thereby increasing flexibility for candidates. By consolidating into a single, extended exam and experience assessment window each year, this approach broadens access and reduces barriers for members pursuing certification.
- Standard Exam Registration Window: April – August 31, 2026
- Standard Exam Test Dates: April – September 30, 2026 (immediate results)
- Experience Assessment Submittal Window*: April – November 30, 2026
- Special Pilot Exam Registration Window**: October 1 – October 30, 2026
- Special Pilot Exam Test Dates**: November 2 – November 28, 2026 (results delivered 4–6 weeks after testing)
*After passing the AICP exam, you can submit your experience during the current assessment window or any future assessment window, once you have earned all your professional planning experience.
**This pilot exam is part of APA's ongoing process of keeping the AICP exam current and fair. If you pass, it counts toward certification and you will become an AICP Candidate.
Why is APA making this change?
Offering two short exam and experience assessment windows each year creates several challenges for members:
- Limited Capacity - High demand during narrow windows strains both in-person testing
centers and remote proctoring services.
- Delayed Certification - Members who meet the experience requirements outside of the
designated windows must wait months to proceed.
- Restricted Flexibility - The limited schedule makes it difficult to align with personal and
professional obligations.
- Unused Scholarships - Some recipients are unable to apply their award within the restricted
timeframe.
What are the benefits for members?
Expanding to longer exam and assessment windows addresses these challenges and creates new advantages for members:
- Greater Scheduling Flexibility - Members gain a longer window to test and submit
assessments, with improved seat availability.
- More Testing Opportunities - Members have a better chance to secure seats and, if needed, retake the exam within the same period.
- Quicker Route to Certification - Members can submit the experience assessment as soon as eligible, without waiting months.
- Improved Work-Life Balance - Preparation and testing can be better aligned with personal and professional commitments.
- Faster Issue Resolution - More time options reduce the pressure and delays that arise from narrow windows.
How will the AICP Certification Diversity Scholarship be administered?
APA will continue to award 100 scholarships annually, with 50 allocated twice a year. Applications will be accepted in February and June, with notifications sent the following month.