PHR / SHRM-CP Preparation
How to Prepare for SHRM-CP or PHR Certification Exams
The PHR and SHRM-CP exams are notoriously difficult. It helps to prepare by using a variety of materials to study and understand the body of knowledge. Fortunately, we have a range of options from full prep courses to self-study materials that can help you no matter your learning style, budget or timeframe.
PHR / SHRM-CP PREP COURSES
Live, instructor-led classes offer dynamic interaction where you can build a relationship with your instructor and your peers. Classes are offered online for access from anywhere.
90 – 100% pass rate
most thorough syllabus
premium prep materials
online classes
access to instructors
PHR PREP COURSE (LIVE)
MOST THOROUGH | 14 classes | $2,795
includes exam voucher w/ Second Chance Insurance
This online, instructor-led course is the most comprehensive way to prepare for the PHR exam. The course includes all prep materials, weekly Zoom classes, access to class recordings, an exam voucher with Second Chance Insurance, practice tests and access to SPHR-certified instructors to help guide you to success.
Learn more & see dates for the PHR course »
SHRM-CP PREP COURSE (LIVE)
MOST THOROUGH | 14 classes | $2,395
purchase exam voucher directly from SHRM
This online, instructor-led course is the most comprehensive way to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam. The course includes all prep materials, weekly Zoom classes, access to class recordings, practice tests and access to SPHR-certified instructors that can guide you to success.
Learn more & see dates for the SHRM-CP course »
PHR PREP COURSE (SELF-PACED)
GOOD VALUE | $2,595
includes exam voucher w/ Second Chance Insurance
If you prefer to study at your own pace OR can’t attend weekly classes, then the PHR self-paced option might work for you. It’s the same content, but on your own time. Choose the “self-paced” option when registering for the PHR course.
SHRM-CP PREP COURSE (SELF-PACED)
GOOD VALUE | $2,195
purchase exam voucher directly from SHRM
If you prefer to study at your own pace OR can’t attend weekly classes, then the SHRM-CP self-paced course is a good choice. You’ll get access to recorded sessions that allow you to learn at your own pace. Choose the “self-paced” option when registering for the SHRM-CP course.
WORKSHOPS
Short, Instructor-Led Intensives
Workshops are great as a supplement if you’re self-studying. With access to SPHR-certified instructors, you gain the insight and reinforcement you need in a short amount of time.
self-study supplement
quick knowledge boosters
good for short timeframes
TEST-TAKING WORKSHOP
1 3-hour session | $249
This workshop will help you become a better test taker with our proprietary test-taking methodology, HRPowerPassTM. This methodology has helped thousands of students pass their HR exam and give you the confidence to tackle the most common question types on any exam.
SELF STUDY
A la carte study materials
Get all the materials and tools you need to study on your own. From study guides, presentation decks to mobile tools and flash cards, you can find it all in our store.
TUTORING
1 on 1 coaching
If you’re looking for clarification on a specific topic or coaching to help with confidence on test day, our SPHR-certified staff can help provide clarity and a sense of calm.
EXAM VOUCHERS
PHR application & exam vouchers
Purchase your HRCI exam vouchers directly from us! SHRM vouchers must be purchased directly from SHRM.
PHR Certification FAQs
Frequently asked questions about PHR certification.
How long does it take to prepare for the PHR exam?
Studying for any HR certification exam requires a time commitment. For most people, it takes several weeks to several months to adequately prepare for test day. It really depends on these factors:
- Your experience: if you have a strong background in HR and are already familiar with the exams topics, then you likely won’t need as much time to review and master the material.
- Your availablity & study habits: if you’re busy with a full time job and family, you’ll likely need to spread your study sessions across more weeks. However, if you’re able to dedicate multiple days a week to the material and digest the entire body of knowledge quickly, it’s feasible you can prepare in weeks rather than months.
- The exam itself: each exam is different in its complexity. As you’d expect, it takes much longer to master the topics on the senior-level SPHR than the entry-level aPHR exam. So expect to spend more time preparing for the higher level exams.
Our best HR certification prep courses meet once or twice per week and take 7 to 14 weeks depending on the exam. If you’d like a faster timeline, you can complete our accelerated prep course or workshops within 2 to 3 weeks.
How hard is the PHR exam?
HR is a complex profession, so yes, to test the competency of HR professionals, the HR certification tests are challenging. The subject matter can be difficult, but also the format and duration of the exam add to the challenge.
The exams change every year and have an average pass rate between 65-89%.
- The aPHR has a pass rate of 85%. While it covers more foundational topics and is considered easier, there are still topics that can surprise you if you’re not fully prepared.
- The PHR and SPHR are notorioulsy difficult and have pass rates below 70%.
- The SHRM-CP exam has a pass rate of 67-70%.
In our experience, the more you study and the more methods you use to prepare, the more you’ll be prepared to take these difficult exams.
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