Accreditation: Requirements

Benefits RequirementsProcess Upcoming Dates

FPRA members, along with members of any of the partner organizations, are eligible to sit for the exam. Although five years of paid, full-time experience in the professional practice of public relations, or in the teaching or administration of public relations courses in an accredited college or university is not required, it is strongly recommended.

What is the fee for taking APR?
The actual cost of the exam is $385. FPRA voted to continue to subsidize the cost of the APR exam for members. Candidates pay the full $385 when they sit for the exam and receive a $100 rebate once they have completed the rebate form and sent it to the State Office. As an added membership benefit, the Capital Chapter also provides a $100 member rebate. To be eligible for these rebates, members must have advanced from their Readiness Review and taken the APR examination within 30 days of completing the Readiness Review and/or study sessions.

Accreditation Maintenance
The Universal Accreditation Board felt the APR credential would be strengthened by requiring a maintenance procedure. This procedure is only required of FPRA members taking the APR exam after January 1, 1998.

The maintenance procedure takes place every three years. You'll be asked to complete a form reviewing your activities in three areas: continuing education, professionalism and service. There is a $50 fee required along with completing the accreditation maintenance procedure.

 APR Exam Application

 Candidate's Instructions for Readiness Review

 Candidate's Written Submission for Readiness Review