Top 10 Admissions Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for an admissions coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate a level of professional experience and knowledge. By obtaining certifications, an admissions coordinator can show potential employers that they have mastered certain skills and have the necessary qualifications to perform the job effectively. Certifications also serve as proof that an admissions coordinator is committed to their profession, which can be attractive to employers. Additionally, certifications may be required by certain organizations or institutions in order to work in a particular position or area, making them essential for those looking to break into the industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Admissions Coordinators and explains how they can help advance an admissions coordinator's career.

What are Admissions Coordinator Certifications?

Admissions Coordinator Certification is a professional certification for individuals who are working in the admissions field. This certification provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage the admissions process from start to finish. It covers topics such as understanding student demographics, evaluating applications, developing recruitment strategies, and managing student data. Admissions coordinators are responsible for ensuring that students meet all requirements for admission into their institution of choice.

Having an Admissions Coordinator Certification can help individuals gain credibility in the field and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in their work. The certification also provides a competitive edge when applying for jobs or promotions. It can also open up opportunities in other areas of higher education such as student affairs or college counseling. Having this certification shows employers that you have a comprehensive understanding of the admissions process and can provide valuable insight into how to make it more efficient and effective. Additionally, having this certification can help you stay up-to-date on changes in regulations and best practices related to admissions processes.

Pro Tip: When considering certification for an admissions coordinator, look for programs that offer specialized courses and certifications in the field. Many of these certifications will cover core knowledge areas such as healthcare regulations, patient advocacy, and customer service best practices. Additionally, consider seeking out certifications from relevant organizations, such as the National Association of Admissions Coordinators (NAAC), to demonstrate your commitment to excellence in the field.

Related: What does an Admissions Coordinator do?

Top 10 Admissions Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Admissions Coordinators today.

1. Certified Admissions Coordinator (CAC)

Certified Admissions Coordinator (CAC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of those who work in college admissions offices. The CAC program is administered by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC).

The CAC program is open to all individuals working in college admissions, regardless of their job title or experience level. To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of two years of full-time experience in college admissions or related fields, and must pass an online assessment that covers topics such as recruitment strategies, enrollment management, financial aid, and ethical practices.

It typically takes about six months to complete the application process for becoming a Certified Admissions Coordinator. Applicants must first complete an online application form and submit it to NACAC along with proof of their work experience. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then take and pass the online assessment within one year.

The cost of becoming a Certified Admissions Coordinator varies depending on whether you are an individual or institutional member of NACAC. For individual members, the cost is $250; for institutional members, it is $500.

2. Certified Enrollment Management Professional (CEMP)

Certified Enrollment Management Professional (CEMP) is a professional certification for individuals who work in the field of enrollment management. This certification is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to manage the enrollment process and maximize student success.

To become certified as a CEMP, an individual must have a minimum of three years of professional experience in enrollment management or related fields. The individual must also pass an examination that covers topics such as admissions, enrollment planning, financial aid, student services, data analysis, marketing, and strategic planning.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the location where it is taken. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $200 to $400 USD. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and can be taken at a local testing center or online through a proctoring service.

Once an individual has passed the exam and been certified as a CEMP, they will need to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

3. Certified College Admissions Counselor (CCAC)

A Certified College Admissions Counselor (CCAC) is a professional who has been trained and certified to provide expert guidance and advice to students and families regarding the college admissions process. The CCAC credential is awarded by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), a professional organization that sets standards of excellence for college admission counseling.

The CCAC credential requires applicants to have at least three years of experience as a college admissions counselor, be currently employed in an accredited higher education institution, and successfully complete NACAC’s comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as college selection, financial aid, enrollment management, student development, and ethical practices.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CCAC certification exam. Candidates should plan on spending at least 20 hours studying for the exam prior to taking it. To prepare for the exam, candidates should review NACAC’s study guide and practice tests as well as other materials related to college admissions counseling.

The cost of obtaining the CCAC credential varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NACAC. For non-members, there is an initial application fee of $75 plus an additional $200 fee for taking the certification exam. For members of NACAC, there is only an additional $200 fee for taking the certification exam.

4. Professional Admissions Coordinator (PAC)

A Professional Admissions Coordinator (PAC) is a professional who assists students in the college admissions process. The PAC helps students navigate the complexities of applying to college, including researching and selecting schools, completing applications, writing essays, preparing for interviews and tests, and more.

It typically takes six months or longer to become a Professional Admissions Coordinator. To become a PAC, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field. You must also complete an approved training program that covers topics such as college admissions processes and procedures, financial aid and scholarship information, test preparation strategies, and more.

The cost of becoming a Professional Admissions Coordinator varies depending on the training program you choose. Most programs cost between $2,000-$5,000. Additionally, you may need to pay for additional materials or supplies associated with your training program.

5. Certified Educational Planner (CEP)

Certified Educational Planner (CEP) is a professional credential awarded by the American Institute for Certified Educational Planners (AICEP). It is designed to recognize those individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of educational planning. The CEP credential recognizes those professionals who have met rigorous standards in their knowledge, skills, and experience related to helping students plan for their post-secondary education.

It typically takes between six months and one year to obtain the CEP credential. This includes completing an application that includes a review of your education, work experience, and other qualifications related to educational planning. You must also pass a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as college admissions, financial aid, career counseling, and more.

In order to get the CEP credential you must first submit an application to AICEP along with all required documents and fees. After your application has been reviewed and approved you will be eligible to take the comprehensive examination. Once you have passed the exam you will receive your CEP certification.

The cost of obtaining the CEP credential varies depending on where you live and what type of membership you choose. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $300-$600 USD for a basic membership or up to $1,000+ USD for a premium membership which includes additional benefits such as access to exclusive resources and discounts on products and services related to educational planning.

6. Association of International Admissions Professionals (AIAP) Certification

The Association of International Admissions Professionals (AIAP) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of international admissions professionals. It is a voluntary certification program that provides recognition for those who have demonstrated the highest level of competency in the field of international admissions.

The AIAP Certification Program consists of two levels: Certified International Admissions Professional (CIAP) and Master Certified International Admissions Professional (MCIAP). The CIAP certification requires completion of an online exam, which covers topics such as international student recruitment, admissions policies and procedures, financial aid and scholarship management, visa processing and compliance, and more. The MCIAP certification requires completion of additional coursework as well as a portfolio review.

It typically takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the AIAP Certification Program. In order to become certified, applicants must submit an application form along with required documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of work experience in the field. Applicants must also attend an orientation session prior to taking the exam.

The cost for the AIAP Certification Program varies depending on which level you are applying for. The CIAP certification costs $395 USD while the MCIAP certification costs $595 USD.

7. Certified College Application Specialist (CCAS)

Certified College Application Specialist (CCAS) is a certification program designed to help professionals in the college admissions process become more knowledgeable and effective. The program provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their expertise in helping students through the college application process.

The CCAS certification is offered by the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC). It requires applicants to have at least two years of experience working with college-bound students, as well as completing a comprehensive online course that covers topics such as college selection, financial aid, and essay writing. Upon completion of the course, applicants must pass a final exam to receive their certification.

The cost for the CCAS program is $395 USD. To get certified, applicants must complete the online course within six months of purchase and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once certified, individuals will receive a certificate from NACAC and be able to use the CCAS designation on their resume or other materials.

8. National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) Certification

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes college counselors who have achieved the highest level of expertise in the field. It is designed to promote excellence in college counseling and to ensure that counselors are knowledgeable about current trends, best practices, and ethical standards in the field.

Earning NACAC Certification requires completion of a rigorous application process that includes submission of evidence demonstrating knowledge and experience in college counseling, as well as successful completion of an online examination. The entire process typically takes between six to nine months from start to finish.

To get started, applicants must submit an official application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other evidence of their qualifications. Once the application is approved by NACAC's Certification Board, applicants will be invited to take an online exam. This exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as college admissions trends, counseling techniques, financial aid resources, and more.

Finally, once applicants successfully complete the exam they will receive their official NACAC Certification. The cost for certification varies depending on whether or not the applicant is a member of NACAC; non-members pay $500 while members pay $350.

9. American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) Certification

The American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of registrars and admissions professionals. The program provides an opportunity for professionals to demonstrate their expertise in the field through a comprehensive assessment process.

The AACRAO Certification Program consists of three levels: Certified Professional Registrar (CPR), Certified Professional Admissions Officer (CPAdm), and Certified Master Registrar/Admissions Officer (CMRAO). Each level requires the successful completion of an online assessment, which tests the individual’s knowledge in areas such as college admissions, student records management, enrollment management, financial aid administration, and more.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the entire certification process. To begin the process, interested individuals must first submit an application form and fee to AACRAO. Once approved for candidacy, applicants will be required to take an online assessment that covers topics related to their chosen certification level. Upon successful completion of the assessment, applicants will receive their certification credentials from AACRAO.

The cost of AACRAO Certification varies depending on the level of certification sought. For example, CPR Certification costs $250 while CPAdm Certification costs $450 and CMRAO Certification costs $750.

10. Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CASSHE) Certification

The Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CASSHE) is an organization that provides standards and guidelines to promote quality and excellence in higher education. CASSHE certification is a voluntary process that recognizes institutions, programs, and departments for meeting or exceeding established standards of practice.

The certification process takes approximately two years to complete. During this time, institutions must demonstrate their commitment to quality by submitting evidence of compliance with the CASSHE standards. This includes providing documentation such as policies, procedures, assessment plans, and other materials that demonstrate how the institution meets the standards. Once all required documents have been submitted and reviewed by the CASSHE Certification Committee, a decision will be made regarding whether or not the institution has achieved certification.

To begin the certification process, institutions must submit an application form along with a fee of $1,500. This fee covers the cost of review by the Certification Committee as well as any additional resources needed to complete the review process. After submission of all required documents and payment of fees, institutions can expect to receive their certification within two years.

CASSHE certification is highly sought after by many higher education institutions because it demonstrates a commitment to quality and excellence in higher education. It also provides assurance to students that they are receiving a high-quality educational experience from accredited institutions that meet or exceed established standards of practice.

Do You Really Need a Admissions Coordinator Certificate?

No, you do not need an Admissions Coordinator Certificate to become an admissions coordinator. The most important qualification for a successful admissions coordinator is experience in the field. This can include working as an admissions officer, student advisor, or other related roles. Having knowledge of the admissions process and being able to manage relationships with students and their families are also essential skills. Additionally, having a high level of organizational skills and attention to detail is important for managing the many tasks involved in the role.

Having a certificate in Admissions Coordination may be beneficial if you want to pursue further education or demonstrate your commitment to the profession, but it is not essential. You can gain experience by volunteering at universities or colleges, interning at educational institutions or taking on administrative roles in schools. You can also complete online courses that provide relevant knowledge and skills required for the job.

Ultimately, having a certificate is not necessary for becoming an admissions coordinator; however, it could be useful if you are looking to advance your career within this field.

Related: Admissions Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Admissions Coordinator Certifications

Q1: What qualifications do I need to become an Admissions Coordinator?

A1: Most employers require a minimum of an associate degree in a related field, such as business or healthcare. Some positions may also require certification from an accredited program.

Q2: How long does it take to get certified as an Admissions Coordinator?

A2: The length of time required to become certified will depend on the program you choose. Many programs offer online courses that can be completed in a few weeks or months.

Q3: What topics are covered in Admissions Coordinator certification programs?

A3: Common topics include patient registration, medical coding and billing, health records management, customer service, communication skills and office management.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as an Admissions Coordinator?

A4: Most programs require applicants to have at least one year of prior experience working in a related field. Additionally, some programs may require completion of prerequisite courses or exams before enrollment.

Q5: Is certification as an Admissions Coordinator required by law?

A5: No, certification is not required by law but it can help you stand out when applying for jobs and demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the profession.