Top 11 Educational Consultant Certifications

Certifications for educational consultants are important for several reasons. First, they demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field. This can be especially important when competing for jobs and contracts, as potential employers will know that the consultant is qualified to do the job. Additionally, certifications provide assurance to clients and employers that the consultant has met specific standards of excellence in their field. Finally, certifications can help consultants stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, allowing them to provide the most effective services possible.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of popular certifications for Educational Consultants and discuss how they can help to advance their professional careers.

What are Educational Consultant Certifications?

Educational consultant certification is a credential for individuals who provide educational consulting services, such as helping to develop educational plans for students and families. Certification is typically provided by professional organizations, such as the National Association of College Admissions Counselors (NACAC) or the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). Certified educational consultants have knowledge and experience in areas such as college admissions, academic planning, financial aid, career guidance, and testing.

Having a certified educational consultant can be beneficial for students and families in many ways. For example, they can help students identify their academic strengths and weaknesses so they can create a plan that is tailored to their needs. They can also provide insight into the admissions process at various schools and help students make informed decisions about which college or university best fits their needs. Additionally, they are often well-versed in financial aid options available to students and may be able to offer advice on how to maximize them. Finally, they are often highly experienced in helping advise students on selecting courses that will best prepare them for college entrance exams such as the SAT or ACT.

In summary, having an educational consultant with certification from a reputable organization can provide valuable assistance for students and families when it comes to making important decisions about education. Such consultants are equipped with specialized knowledge about the college admissions process and other aspects of higher education that can be invaluable resources in helping ensure that students make informed choices about their future paths.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing educational consultant certification, make sure to research the various certifications available and check with your state's Department of Education to determine which certifications are accepted in your area.

Related: What does an Educational Consultant do?

Top 11 Educational Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Educational Consultants today.

1. Certified Educational Planner (CEP)

Certified Educational Planner (CEP) is a professional certification offered by the American Institute for Certified Educational Planners (AICEP). The CEP credential recognizes professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience, and skill in educational planning. It is designed to give educators, counselors, administrators, and other professionals the recognition they need to be successful in their field.

It typically takes about two years to complete the CEP program. To get the CEP credential, applicants must have at least a master's degree in education or counseling-related fields and three years of full-time work experience in an educational setting. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as college admissions, financial aid, student success strategies, career development, and more.

The cost for the CEP program varies depending on your location and whether you are taking it online or in person. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,000 - $2,500 for all materials and fees associated with the program.

Overall, obtaining the CEP credential is an important step for those who want to demonstrate their expertise in educational planning and help students achieve their goals.

2. Certified School Counselor (CSC)

A Certified School Counselor (CSC) is a professional who has completed the necessary educational and training requirements to become certified in school counseling. CSCs are responsible for providing guidance and support to students in grades K-12. They work with students to help them identify their strengths, interests, and goals; develop academic plans; provide career exploration services; create social-emotional learning opportunities; and connect students with resources and supports.

The process of becoming a CSC typically takes two years or more. To become a CSC, individuals must first complete an accredited master’s degree program in school counseling or a related field. After completing the degree program, individuals must pass the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE). Additionally, they must complete an approved supervised practicum experience in school counseling prior to certification.

In addition to the educational requirements, applicants must also meet certain eligibility criteria set forth by their state board of education. This includes passing a criminal background check, completing continuing education courses, and obtaining liability insurance coverage.

The cost of becoming a CSC varies depending on the individual’s state of residence as well as their specific educational program. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $10,000-$20,000 for a master’s degree program in school counseling. Other expenses may include application fees for licensure exams and liability insurance premiums.

3. Certified Educational Consultant (CEC)

A Certified Educational Consultant (CEC) is a professional who provides guidance and advice to students, families, and other stakeholders on educational planning. They are knowledgeable in the areas of college admissions, financial aid, scholarships, career exploration, and test preparation. CECs help students make informed decisions about their educational goals by offering resources and support.

It typically takes around two years to become a Certified Educational Consultant (CEC). The process involves completing an accredited program or coursework in educational consulting and passing the certification exam administered by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC).

To become a CEC, you must first complete an accredited program or coursework in educational consulting. Once you have completed your program or coursework, you must then pass the NACAC Certification Exam. After passing the exam, you will be eligible to apply for certification through NACAC.

The cost of becoming a CEC varies depending on the type of program or coursework you choose to pursue as well as any additional fees associated with taking the NACAC Certification Exam. Generally speaking, programs range from $500 - $2,000 while taking the exam can cost up to $400.

4. National Certified School Psychologist (NCSP)

National Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) is a professional certification for school psychologists. It is awarded by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), and it is intended to demonstrate that a school psychologist has met certain standards of knowledge, skills, and professional practice.

To become an NCSP, applicants must have completed a minimum of 60 graduate semester hours in school psychology from an accredited college or university; have completed at least 1,200 hours of supervised experience in school psychology; have passed the Praxis II: School Psychology exam; and be currently certified as a Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP). In addition, applicants must submit official transcripts from their graduate program, three letters of recommendation, and a current resume or curriculum vitae.

The process of becoming an NCSP typically takes between 6-12 months. The cost for applying for the NCSP credential is $350 USD.

5. International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Coordinator (IBDPC)

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Coordinator (IBDPC) is a professional certification program offered through the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). The IBDPC is designed to provide educators with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively coordinate and manage an IB Diploma Program.

It typically takes two years to complete the IBDPC program, although this can vary depending on the individual's prior experience and qualifications. To get started, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, as well as three years of teaching experience at an IB World School.

In order to become certified, applicants must successfully complete a series of courses and assessments that cover topics such as curriculum development, assessment strategies, student learning outcomes, and more. Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will receive their IBDPC certificate.

The cost of the IBDPC program varies depending on which institution offers it. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 to $4,000 for the entire two-year program. This cost includes course materials and assessments fees.

6. Professional Development Certificate in Education Consulting (PDCEC)

The Professional Development Certificate in Education Consulting (PDCEC) is a professional certification program designed to help education consultants develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively provide consulting services. It is offered by the National Association of Education Consultants (NAEC).

The PDCEC consists of two parts: an online course and a comprehensive exam. The online course covers topics such as educational policy, research methods, and consulting practice. It takes approximately three months to complete the online course.

To get the PDCEC, you must first complete the online course and then pass the comprehensive exam with a score of at least 70%. Once you have completed both components, you will be awarded your certificate.

The cost of the PDCEC varies depending on which version of the program you choose. The basic version costs $395, while the premium version costs $495. Both versions include access to all materials and resources needed for successful completion of the program.

7. National Association of College Admissions Counselors Certification Program (NACACCP)

The National Association of College Admissions Counselors Certification Program (NACACCP) is a professional certification program for college admissions counselors and other professionals in the field of college admissions. The program is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the field of college admissions.

To receive the NACACCP certification, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, pass an exam, and demonstrate a commitment to ethical standards. The educational requirements include completing at least 18 semester hours or 27 quarter hours of college-level coursework related to college admissions counseling or higher education administration.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion. The written portion covers topics such as admission policies and procedures, student recruitment strategies, financial aid information, and legal issues related to college admissions. The oral portion tests the applicant's ability to communicate effectively with students and parents about the college admissions process.

Once applicants have passed both portions of the exam, they are eligible for certification as a Certified College Admissions Counselor (CCAC). To maintain their certification status, CCACs must complete continuing education credits every three years.

The cost for taking the NACACCP exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $150-$200 per attempt. It typically takes up to six months for applicants to receive their results after taking the exam.

8. American Board of Independent Educational Consultants Certification Program (ABIECCP)

The American Board of Independent Educational Consultants Certification Program (ABIECCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the highest standards of excellence in independent educational consulting. The program is administered by the Association for College Admission Counseling (ACAC), and it provides independent educational consultants with the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to ethical practice, professional development, and best practices.

To become certified through ABIECCP, applicants must meet certain criteria and pass an exam. Applicants must have at least three years of experience providing college counseling services, have completed at least 12 hours of ACAC-approved continuing education courses, and have a minimum of two letters of recommendation from current or former clients.

The ABIECCP exam consists of multiple-choice questions about topics such as college admissions processes and procedures, financial aid options, ethical considerations when working with students, and other related topics. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken online or in person.

The cost for ABIECCP certification varies depending on whether you are an ACAC member or non-member. For members, the cost is $250; for non-members, the cost is $400. Additionally, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 for both members and non-members.

Overall, obtaining ABIECCP certification can take several months if you need to complete additional continuing education courses before taking the exam. However, once you have met all the requirements and passed the exam, you will be eligible to use the ABIECCP designation on your website and marketing materials as a way to demonstrate your commitment to providing quality services as an independent educational consultant.

9. National Association for College Admission Counseling Certification Program (NACACCP)

The National Association for College Admission Counseling Certification Program (NACACCP) is a professional credentialing program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in college admission counseling. It is designed to provide recognition and credibility to those who are committed to helping students and families make informed decisions about college admissions.

It takes approximately 8-12 months to complete the NACACCP certification process, depending on the individual's experience and background. To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least three years of professional experience in college admission counseling, completing the NACACCP online application form, passing an examination, and submitting letters of recommendation from two current or former employers or supervisors.

The cost of the NACACCP certification process varies depending on the applicant's level of experience. The initial fee for new applicants is $150; for experienced applicants it is $300; and for advanced applicants it is $400. In addition, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or attending workshops or seminars related to college admission counseling.

10. Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education Certification Program (CASHE-CP)

The Council for the Advancement of Standards in Higher Education (CAS) Certification Program (CASHE-CP) is a voluntary professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of student affairs and higher education. The CASHE-CP is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of competency in their chosen field, as well as those who are committed to ongoing professional development.

To earn the CASHE-CP credential, applicants must demonstrate mastery of CAS standards and complete an application process that includes submitting evidence of their professional experience and training. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive examination and submit letters of recommendation from colleagues or supervisors. The entire process typically takes six months or more to complete.

Applicants can begin the process by completing an online application form and submitting it along with all required documentation. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be given access to study materials, including practice exams, which they can use to prepare for the comprehensive exam. After successfully passing the exam, applicants will receive their CASHE-CP certificate.

The cost of obtaining the CASHE-CP credential varies depending on whether you are an individual applicant or part of an institution that is applying as a group. Individual applicants pay a one-time fee of $450 USD; institutions pay $1,500 USD per person plus additional fees for group applications.

11. International Association for College Admission Counseling Certification Program (IACAC-CP).

The International Association for College Admission Counseling Certification Program (IACAC-CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize college admission counselors who have achieved a high level of expertise in their field. The program is open to all professionals who work in the field of college admission counseling, including those with an advanced degree in higher education or related fields.

The IACAC-CP requires applicants to complete a series of courses and exams that demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to College Admissions Counseling, Advanced College Admissions Counseling, College Admission Law & Ethics, and Professional Development & Career Advancement. Each course must be completed within one year from the start date. After completing all four courses, applicants must then pass a comprehensive exam covering all topics covered throughout the program.

In order to get certified through IACAC-CP, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of completion of all required courses and exams. Once approved by IACAC-CP, applicants will receive a certificate of completion that can be used as proof of their credentials when applying for jobs or promotions in the field.

The cost for the IACAC-CP certification program varies depending on how many courses are taken and whether they are taken online or in person. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD depending on the number of courses taken and whether they are taken online or in person.

Do You Really Need a Educational Consultant Certificate?

When it comes to entering into the field of educational consulting, there is no one answer as to whether or not you need an educational consultant certificate. In some cases, having a certificate may open up more job opportunities and help you stand out from other applicants. On the other hand, if you are confident in your education and experience in the field of educational consulting, then a certificate may not be necessary.

In order to make an informed decision as to whether or not you need an educational consultant certificate, it is important to consider what type of work you are interested in doing. If you are looking for work as a school counselor or administrator, then having a certificate may be beneficial since employers may prefer applicants with more specialized training and credentials. However, if you plan on working as an independent consultant for private clients or organizations, then the need for certification is less clear cut. Many independent consultants find success without any formal certification or degree.

In either case, it is important to research the requirements of the position before applying. Some positions may require a degree or certification while others do not. Additionally, having additional certificates or degrees related to educational consulting can also be beneficial when applying for certain positions.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an educational consultant certificate will depend on your individual circumstances and goals within the field of educational consulting. It is important to weigh all factors carefully before deciding whether or not obtaining certification would be beneficial for your career prospects in this field.

Related: Educational Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Educational Consultant Certifications

1. What is an Educational Consultant Certification?

Answer: An Educational Consultant Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates expertise in the field of educational consulting, which involves providing guidance and advice to individuals and organizations on educational matters such as curriculum design, student learning strategies, and school improvement.

2. How do I become certified as an Educational Consultant?

Answer: To become certified as an Educational Consultant, you must meet certain requirements including completion of a recognized program, passing of an exam administered by a certifying body, and submission of documentation verifying your experience in the field.

3. What are the benefits of obtaining an Educational Consultant Certification?

Answer: Obtaining an Educational Consultant Certification can help you gain credibility with potential employers, increase your earning potential, demonstrate your commitment to professional development and career advancement, and open up new opportunities for career advancement within the field.

4. How long does it take to complete the certification process?

Answer: The amount of time required to complete the certification process varies depending on the program chosen but typically requires a minimum of six months to one year of study and preparation.

5. Are there any additional requirements after obtaining an Educational Consultant Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying bodies require that certified consultants participate in continuing education courses or workshops every two years in order to maintain their certification status.