Top 11 Events Assistant Certifications

Certifications are important for an events assistant in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and experience. By having certifications, events assistants can prove that they have the necessary skills to perform their job successfully. In addition, certifications provide employers with assurance that the candidate is qualified for the position and has the potential to be a valuable asset to their organization. Certifications also give events assistants an edge over other candidates who do not have them as these qualifications are seen as a sign of dedication and commitment.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Events Assistants and explain how they can help boost an events assistant's career.

What are Events Assistant Certifications?

Events Assistant Certification is a program designed to teach the necessary skills and knowledge required for an individual to become an effective events assistant. It focuses on teaching students how to plan, organize, and execute successful events. The certification covers topics such as event planning, budgeting, marketing and promotion, customer service, and more.

Having Events Assistant Certification will help individuals stand out from other job applicants in the events industry. It demonstrates that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in this field. Additionally, it can open up new opportunities for career advancement or even lead to a higher salary. Furthermore, having this certification can provide an additional layer of credibility when working with clients or vendors in the events industry. Ultimately, having Events Assistant Certification can give individuals an edge in today’s competitive job market and help them achieve their career goals.

Pro Tip: When seeking an events assistant certification, look for a program that offers hands-on training and real-world experience. This will help you develop the necessary skills to be successful as an events assistant and make sure you are well prepared for the job.

Related: What does an Events Assistant do?

Top 11 Events Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Events Assistants today.

1. Certified Events Specialist (CES)

A Certified Events Specialist (CES) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of event planning and management. The certification is offered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA), which is the leading global association for the live events industry.

To become certified, an individual must complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as event planning, marketing, budgeting, risk management, and legal issues. The certification process typically takes about six months to complete and requires a minimum of 40 hours of study time. Upon successful completion of all coursework and exams, applicants will receive their CES certification.

The cost to become certified varies depending on the type of program chosen. For example, ILEA offers both self-study and instructor-led courses; self-study courses are generally more affordable than instructor-led courses. Additionally, ILEA members receive discounts on their certification fees.

2. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) is a professional certification program for meeting and event professionals. It is the most widely recognized and respected credential in the meetings, conventions, exhibitions, and events industry. The CMP designation is a mark of excellence that demonstrates to employers, peers, and clients that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to plan and execute successful meetings and events.

It typically takes about three years to become a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). During this time, individuals must complete a minimum of 25 hours of continuing education related to the meetings industry, pass an exam administered by the Events Industry Council (EIC), maintain their membership with EIC, and agree to abide by the EIC’s Code of Ethics.

In order to get certified as a CMP, individuals must first apply for candidacy with the Events Industry Council (EIC). The application process requires applicants to provide documentation regarding their work experience in the meetings industry as well as documentation verifying their completion of at least 25 hours of continuing education related to the meetings industry. Once approved by EIC, applicants can then register for and take the CMP exam.

The cost for applying for candidacy as a Certified Meeting Professional is $100 USD plus applicable taxes. The cost for taking the CMP exam is $395 USD plus applicable taxes.

3. Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)

Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) is a professional designation earned by special events professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, experience, and dedication necessary to excel in the field. The CSEP is accredited by the International Live Events Association (ILEA).

To become a CSEP, an individual must have at least three years of full-time work experience in the special events industry or two years of full-time work experience plus an approved college degree. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics like event planning, marketing, budgeting and finance, legal issues, risk management, and more.

The process of becoming a CSEP takes approximately six to eight weeks from start to finish. To get started, candidates must first register with ILEA and pay the application fee. Once registered, candidates will receive their study materials and have up to three months to prepare for the exam. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, they will be officially certified as a CSEP.

The cost of becoming a CSEP varies depending on your membership status with ILEA. For non-members it costs $325 USD for the application fee plus $450 USD for the exam fee. For members it costs $275 USD for the application fee plus $400 USD for the exam fee.

4. Certified Event Planner (CEP)

Certified Event Planner (CEP) is an internationally recognized certification for event planners. It is designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and experience to plan and execute successful events.

The CEP certification program is administered by the International Special Events Society (ISES). It consists of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as event planning, marketing, budgeting, and risk management. The exam also includes a practical component where applicants must demonstrate their ability to plan and manage an actual event.

The CEP certification requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in the field of event planning, although some applicants may qualify with less experience if they have completed relevant coursework or training programs.

In order to obtain the CEP certification, applicants must first register with ISES and pay a fee of $450 USD. After registration, applicants must complete the online application form and submit it along with supporting documents such as proof of work experience or educational qualifications. Once these requirements are met, applicants can take the CEP exam at one of ISES’s approved testing centers around the world.

The CEP exam typically takes about four hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of event planning. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CEP certificate within six weeks from ISES.

5. Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWEP)

Certified Wedding and Event Planner (CWEP) is an internationally recognized certification program for professional wedding and event planners. It is designed to help individuals gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to plan successful events.

The CWEP program consists of six modules covering topics such as budgeting, marketing, contracts, client relations, design and décor, and event management. Each module includes a comprehensive study guide with activities and assessments. Upon completion of all six modules, participants will receive their CWEP certificate.

It typically takes between 4-6 months to complete the CWEP program depending on how much time you are able to devote to studying each week.

To get started with the CWEP program you will need to register online through the Professional Wedding & Event Planners Association (PWEPA). You will then be provided access to the online course materials including the study guides for each module. The cost of the CWEP program is $599 USD which includes access to all course materials and assessments as well as your final certificate upon completion.

6. Certified Corporate Event Planner (CCEP)

A Certified Corporate Event Planner (CCEP) is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise of event planners in the corporate world. The CCEP certification is awarded by the International Special Events Society (ISES), a global organization dedicated to advancing the profession of special events.

The CCEP certification program consists of three parts: an online course, an exam and a portfolio review. The online course covers topics such as budgeting, marketing, logistics and risk management. After completing the online course, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of corporate event planning principles and practices. Finally, they must submit a portfolio of their work for review by ISES judges.

The entire process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. To get started, you must first become a member of ISES and pay an application fee ($150). The cost for the online course is $695 plus any applicable taxes; the cost for the exam is $395 plus any applicable taxes; and the cost for portfolio review is $195 plus any applicable taxes.

Once you have completed all three components successfully, you will be awarded your CCEP certification and receive exclusive access to resources from ISES including discounts on conferences and seminars as well as networking opportunities with other certified professionals.

7. Event Management Certification Program (EMCP)

The Event Management Certification Program (EMCP) is an industry-recognized program designed to provide event professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field. The program is offered through a variety of organizations, including the International Special Events Society (ISES), Meeting Professionals International (MPI), and Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).

The EMCP consists of a comprehensive series of courses that cover topics such as event planning, budgeting, marketing, risk management, legal issues, customer service, and more. Courses are typically offered online or in person at various locations around the world. The length of the program varies depending on the organization offering it; some programs take as little as three months to complete while others can take up to two years.

In order to receive certification, students must complete all course requirements and pass a final exam. Most programs also require students to have prior experience in event management or related fields before they can enroll in the program.

The cost of EMCP certification varies depending on the organization offering it; however, most programs range from $500-$2,000 USD. Some organizations may also offer discounts for members or group rates for multiple participants.

8. International Live Events Association’s Certified Event Manager (CEM)

The International Live Events Association (ILEA) Certified Event Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize event professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to excellence and professionalism in the events industry.

The CEM program consists of four components: an online course, an exam, a portfolio review, and continuing education requirements. The online course provides comprehensive training on all aspects of event management, including planning, budgeting, marketing, logistics, risk management, and more. The exam tests the knowledge gained from the online course and assesses whether or not an individual has mastered the material. After passing the exam, candidates must submit a portfolio for review by ILEA’s certification committee. This portfolio should demonstrate their experience and skills in event management. Upon successful completion of all four components of the program, candidates will receive their CEM designation.

The entire process typically takes 6-12 months to complete depending on how quickly you can complete each component. The cost for the CEM program is $495 USD plus applicable taxes for ILEA members or $595 USD plus applicable taxes for non-members.

9. American Society of Association Executives’ Certified Association Executive (CAE)

The Certified Association Executive (CAE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the highest level of knowledge and skills in association management. The CAE credential is recognized as the standard for excellence among association professionals.

To become a Certified Association Executive, an individual must have at least three years of experience in association management, complete an approved educational program, and pass a rigorous examination. The process typically takes about two years to complete.

The first step in becoming a CAE is to apply for candidacy status with ASAE. Candidates must submit their application along with proof of their education and experience in association management. Once accepted into the program, candidates will need to complete an approved educational program that covers topics such as finance, governance, marketing, membership development, public relations and technology. Candidates must also pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of these topics.

The cost of becoming a CAE varies depending on the educational program chosen and any other associated costs such as exam fees or study materials. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more to become certified.

Once certified, individuals are expected to maintain their credentials through continuing education or recertification every three years. This requires completing at least 45 hours of approved continuing education activities during each three-year period.

10. National Association for Catering and Events’ Certified Catering Consultant (CCC)

The National Association for Catering and Events’ Certified Catering Consultant (CCC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and expertise of catering professionals. The CCC is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the catering industry, including topics such as menu planning, event management, sales and marketing, financial management and more.

In order to become certified, individuals must complete an online application and submit two letters of recommendation from industry peers or employers. After submitting the application, applicants must pass an exam that covers all aspects of catering operations. The exam includes both written and practical components. Once applicants have passed the exam, they will receive their CCC designation.

The cost for the CCC certification process varies depending on the applicant's location. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$800 USD to apply for the certification program. The entire process typically takes 3-4 weeks from start to finish.

11. Project Management Institute's Project Management Professional (PMP).

The Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is a globally recognized credential for project managers, and is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in managing projects. To become certified, individuals must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, as well as pass an exam.

The PMP certification process typically takes three to six months to complete, depending on how quickly you can prepare for the exam. To get started, you must first register with PMI and pay the associated fee. Once registered, you will need to complete an application that includes information about your education and work experience. After submitting your application, it will be reviewed by PMI staff members who will then determine if you are eligible to take the exam.

Once approved, you will need to schedule an appointment for the exam at one of the testing centers located around the world. The cost of taking the PMP exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $405-$555 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your PMP certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. You must also maintain your certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to keep it current.

Do You Really Need a Events Assistant Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual career goals. A certificate in Events Assistant can be beneficial if you are looking to break into the events industry or gain a higher level of knowledge and expertise in the field. It can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to create successful events, as well as giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

If you already have some experience in event planning, then a certificate may not be necessary for you. However, if you are starting out and want to make sure that you have all the right qualifications and knowledge for a successful career in the events industry, then it is definitely worth considering taking an Events Assistant Certificate course.

Overall, an Events Assistant Certificate is not essential but it can be very beneficial if you want to start or further your career in event planning. The certification will give you an edge over other candidates because it demonstrates that you have taken the time to learn more about the field and understand what makes a successful event. It also shows employers that you are committed to learning more about event planning and developing your skills so that you can deliver quality services.

Related: Events Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Events Assistant Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become an Events Assistant?

Answer: The exact requirements for becoming an Events Assistant can vary depending on the employer and the specific job duties, but generally include a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in event planning and customer service. Some employers may also require certifications in areas such as event management or hospitality.

2. How do I become certified as an Events Assistant?

Answer: You can become certified as an Events Assistant by completing the Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP) program offered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA). This program requires passing a series of exams and completing a supervised practicum.

3. What skills do I need to be successful as an Events Assistant?

Answer: Successful Events Assistants need excellent organization, communication, customer service and problem-solving skills. They should also have knowledge of event planning procedures, budgeting, and coordinating vendors.

4. What type of events will I be working on as an Events Assistant?

Answer: As an Events Assistant, you will typically work on a variety of events such as conferences, weddings, corporate meetings and other special occasions.

5. How much money can I expect to make as an Events Assistant?

Answer: The salary for an Events Assistant can vary depending on experience level and location but typically ranges from $30K - $50K annually.