aPHR Exam Prep
Launch Your HR Career with aPHR Certification
HRCI’s Associate Professional in Human Resources is your launchpad to a successful HR career. Designed for new and emerging HR professionals, this certification builds a strong foundation in essential HR knowledge and strengthens professional credibility. With expert instruction and proven prep strategies from HR Cert Prep Pros, you’ll be fully prepared to pass the exam, earn a respected credential, and step confidently forward in your HR career.
2,500+ HR Professionals Certified
Expert SPHR-Certified Instructors
97% Proven Pass Rate
Prep With the Best. Pass Your Test!TM
We’ll help you gain the knowledge, confidence, and credibility to set you on the path for success.
Flexible exam prep options to match your learning style, schedule, and goals.
Get help choosing the best prep method for you.
COURSES
Comprehensive, structured learning experience with expert guidance and support. Choose live virtual for real-time, interactive instruction, or self-paced for maximum flexibility.
WORKSHOPS
High-impact sessions focused on exam readiness. Learn our exclusive HRPowerPass™ test-taking methodology to strengthen strategy, confidence, and performance on exam day.
TUTORING
Personalized 1:1 coaching tailored to your specific needs. Ideal for accelerated prep, targeted test-taking strategies, key exam topic review, and psychological prep for test day.
MATERIALS
Flexible, self-paced study resources for independent learners. Streamlined, budget-friendly option that provides essential prep materials without live or recorded class instruction.
“I recently completed the HR Cert Prep Pros course to prepare for the aPHR certification with HRCI, and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. The course content was comprehensive and well-organized, covering all the essential areas needed to pass the exam. Debi Chernak and Amy Pagett were knowledgeable, approachable, and always ready to offer additional support when needed.
I appreciated the ease of the Zoom classroom format, making it incredibly convenient to join the sessions from anywhere. The weekend class schedule was another huge plus. It allowed me to balance my professional and personal commitments while still getting in-depth learning. The study materials were clear, and the practice tests helped me feel confident and well-prepared.
What I particularly appreciated was how the course kept me engaged and motivated throughout the process. It was an excellent investment in my career, and I feel confident moving forward with my certification.
If you’re looking to prepare for the aPHR exam, I highly recommend HR Cert Prep Pros!”
aPHR EXAM PREP COURSES
World-Class Training with Expert, SPHR-Certified Instructors
Structured Learning Experience with Exclusive Prep for Success Materials
aPHR Exam Voucher with Second Chance Guarantee
Live Virtual Classes for dynamic interaction and peer connections… or Self-Paced, On-Demand Program for maximum flexibility.
aPHR Live Virtual Course
$1,995
no courses currently scheduled
aPHR Self-Paced Course
$1,795
no courses currently scheduled
aPHR Tutoring
HR Cert Prep Pros is the ONLY provider of dedicated, exam-specific tutoring for HRCI and SHRM exams.
Master key exam topics, learn our game-changing test-taking methodology, and gain confidence for test day!
Our expert, SPHR-certified instructors will meet you where you are and provide targeted guidance and support.
Choose between our popular HRPowerPass package or a fully customized program.
HRPowerPass™ Tutoring Package
$395
Ideal for professionals who want to learn our exclusive test-taking methodology plus get personalized support to increase practice test scores and confidence.
ENROLL TODAY | we’ll reach out to schedule
Custom Tutoring
$295 – $795
ENROLL TODAY
aPHR Workshops
Sharpen your test-taking skills, master key exam topics, and build confidence with our targeted, live virtual, instructor-led, small group trainings.
HRPowerPass™ Test-Taking Workshop / aPHR
$149
During this fast-moving, 2-hour workshop, you’ll learn our game-changing test-taking methodology tailored exclusively for the aPHR exam.
Ideal for those who are self-studying, re-studying, or enrolled in an alternate prep course.
ENROLL TODAY | select a date
aPHR EXAM PREP MATERIALS
Seeking a streamlined, budget-friendly materials-only package? Get all the resources you need to study on your own: print and online books, online practice tests, HR Cert Prep Pros instructor slide decks and handouts, along with mobile tools and flash cards.
Proprietary Materials
Great for Self-Study
Prep for Success Study Materials Bundle / aPHR
$595
Not Sure Which Option is Best?
Schedule a consultation with our expert HR team. You’ll get personalized guidance on selecting the preparation path that aligns perfectly with your career goals.
Or reach out to us at Info@HRCertPrepPros.com or 303-670-3366.
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Book a Free Strategy Session
Schedule a consultation with our expert HR team. You’ll get personalized guidance on selecting the preparation path that aligns perfectly with your career goals.
Or reach out to us at Info@HRCertPrepPros.com or 303-670-3366.
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Which Exam Prep Method Is Right for You?
Answer a few questions to see which prep option fits your learning style and schedule.
Everyone learns differently—and juggles real-world demands. That’s why we offer flexible exam prep options designed to fit your learning style, schedule, and goals.
DO YOU...
- Thrive in a live, interactive setting?
- Want to ask questions in real time?
- Value built-in structure and accountability to stay on track?
RECOMMENDED METHODS:
Live Course, Workshop
DO YOU...
- Want to study on your own?
- Need a flexible schedule?
RECOMMENDED METHODS:
Self-Paced Course, Tutoring, Prep Materials
DO YOU...
- Prefer personalized one-on-one coaching?
- Already have your prep materials?
- Have a short time frame left to prepare?
RECOMMENDED METHOD:
Tutoring
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing to become certified and determining the best preparation path for you is an exciting — and important — step for your career. Here are answers to the most common questions professionals like you ask as they plan their certification journey.
What is the aPHR certification?
The Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR) is an entry-level, knowledge-based HR certification offered by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI). It’s designed for professionals who are new to HR or looking to enter the field — making it the perfect starting point for your HR career journey.
Note: The aPHRi exam is for non-U.S.-based practitioners and excludes U.S. laws and regulations. Details may be found at https://www.hrci.org/certifications/individual-certifications/aphri. HR Cert Prep Pros does not currently offer aPHRi prep courses or materials.
Who is eligible to take the aPHR exam?
Virtually anyone interested in Human Resources may take the aPHR exam. You need only a high school diploma or G.E.D. No previous HR experience is required.
What topics are covered on the aPHR exam?
The exam covers five key functional areas of HR:
- Compliance & Risk Management – 25%
- Employee Relations – 24%
- Talent Acquisition – 19%
- Compensation & Benefits – 17%
- Learning & Development – 15%
Note that all aPHR study materials on the market today are based on each provider’s interpretation of HRCI’s Body of Knowledge (BoK) and the aPHR Exam Content Outline, so no provider’s materials are an exact or exhaustive list covering every possible exam question. That said, we recommend focusing on mastering the materials we use in our course. If you’d like additional study suggestions, we’re happy to provide them.
How many questions are on the aPHR exam and how long do I have to take the test?
You’ll answer 90 questions total (65 scored questions plus 25 pretest questions). You’ll have 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the exam, plus a 30-minute check-in period before starting.
What's the passing score for the aPHR exam?
You need to answer approximately 70% of the scored questions correctly to achieve a scaled score of 500 or higher. The exact number varies slightly because HRCI uses statistical validation to ensure fairness across different test versions. Our systematic approach prepares you to confidently exceed this threshold.
What makes HR Cert Prep Pros different from other aPHR prep providers?
While others focus solely on content review, we address the real barrier most professionals face: translating knowledge into exam success under pressure using our exclusive HRPowerPass™ test-taking methodology. Our unique approach has helped thousands of students pass their exams.
What is HRPowerPass™ and why is it so effective?
HRPowerPass™ is our exclusive, neuroscience-based approach that builds mastery, sharpens your test-taking skills, and strengthens your mindset — transforming your preparation into strategic confidence. It helps you study smarter, retain more, and walk into your exam ready to tackle every question with clarity and achieve certification success.
Do I need prior HR experience to succeed in your program?
Absolutely not! We start with foundational concepts and build systematically, so you develop both knowledge and confidence. Many of our most successful students came from completely different fields—customer service, operations, retail, and administration.
What's included in your Live Virtual aPHR prep courses?
- 8 interactive expert-led sessions on Zoom over 8-10 weeks
- Day, evening, and weekend options
- Class recordings available within 24 hours
- Prep for Success Study Materials Bundle
- HRCI or HRCP print & online books and practice test portal
- HR Cert Prep Pros instructor slides, handouts, quizzes & final exam
- Premium aPHR PocketPrep desktop & mobile app
- HRPowerPass™ Test-Taking Workshop
- Direct access to our Certified Professional Instructors via email, phone, and text
- Course Certificate when you complete the course requirements
- 1-on-1 “From Class to Pass” tutoring session
- aPHR Exam Voucher with Second Chance Insurance
What's the difference between your Live Virtual and Self-Paced courses?
Both formats include identical course content, prep materials, 1×1 tutoring session, and guarantee.
- Live Virtual ($1,995) – 8 interactive Zoom sessions over 8–10 weeks, real-time Q&A and peer interaction.
- Self-Paced ($1,795) – Full flexibility to study anytime, plus a live orientation session to set you up for success.
What is your guarantee policy?
If you complete all course requirements but don’t pass your aPHR exam, you may attend a comparable prep course free of charge within 12 months of taking your exam. We’re committed to your success — not just your enrollment! View our full policy here
Which aPHR preparation option should I choose?
Choosing the right prep option is key to your success — and it’s one of the most important conversations we have with our students. The best fit depends on your learning style, schedule, current knowledge, and career goals. Let’s talk about your unique situation and find the path that’s right for you.
Here’s how to connect with our team:
📧 Info@HRCertPrepPros.com
📞 303-670-3366
📅 Schedule a call
What types of questions are on the aPHR exam?
Most aPHR exam questions are multiple-choice. Others may include fill-in-the-blank, matching, and drag-and-drop formats. The specific number of non-multiple-choice questions varies with each version of the test.
What is a pretest question?
Pretest questions are unscored items included to evaluate their effectiveness for future exams. You will not know which test questions are scored vs pretest items so be sure to select your best answer for all questions.
May I request accommodation for a physical or mental condition?
Yes. Accommodation requests are handled on a case-by-case basis. Please refer to HRCI’s website or Certification Handbook for details.
How much does the aPHR exam cost?
Through HRCI: $100 application fee + $300 exam fee, plus $250 for Second Chance Insurance (SCI) if purchased at the same time.
Through HR Cert Prep Pros: Your course registration includes your exam voucher and Second Chance Insurance.
What is Second Chance Insurance (SCI) and why might I need it?
SCI allows you to retake your exam after 90 days (then within the next 180 days) at no extra cost if you don’t pass on your first attempt. When you register for a comprehensive Live/Virtual or Self-Paced prep course through HR Cert Prep Pros, SCI is automatically included with your exam voucher.
How long do I have to take my exam after applying?
You have 180 days from approval to schedule and take your exam. If you don’t take your exam within this timeframe, your application will expire and you’ll need to reapply and repay for the application and exam.
Are there specific times of year when I can take the aPHR exam?
You may take the aPHR exam year-round, based on test center or online proctoring availability. After applying, HRCI will send you instructions to schedule your exam.
How long is the aPHR certification valid?
The aPHR certification is valid for 3 years, except your first cycle extends from your pass date to your next birthday plus 3 years. For example:
- Pass Jan 15, 2026 → Recertify by Aug 27, 2029
- Pass Aug 1, 2026 → Recertify by Aug 27, 2029
- Pass Sept 1, 2026 → Recertify by Aug 27, 2030
How do I maintain my aPHR certification?
Earn 45 recertification credits over 3 years or retake the exam.
I have test anxiety and haven't studied in years. Can I really succeed?
Absolutely! Many of our most accomplished students started exactly where you are now. That’s why we provide ongoing guidance, proven strategies, and steady encouragement from start to finish.
How quickly can I get started?
Once you enroll, we’ll typically onboard you within just a few days — so you may begin your prep right away.
I'm interested but I still have questions. How can I get more information?
We’re here to support your success and ensure you have all the answers you need to move forward with confidence. Your questions show you’re approaching this decision strategically — the same mindset that leads to certification and career success! Let’s connect and talk them through so you can feel confident in your decision.
Here are easy ways to explore your options:
- 📅 Schedule a complimentary call to discuss your goals
- 📧 Email Info@HRCertPrepPros.com with questions
- 📞 Call 303-670-3366 for a personal conversation
