Top 10 Procurement Assistant Certifications

Certifications are important for a procurement assistant in the job market as they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their role. Additionally, certifications can help procurement assistants stand out from other candidates by showing that they have gone above and beyond to gain specialized knowledge in the field. Certifications also provide a sense of credibility and trustworthiness that can give employers assurance that their new hire is qualified for the position. Finally, certifications may be required by some employers when hiring a procurement assistant, so having them can increase an individual’s chances of being hired.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Procurement Assistants and explain how they can help to advance their careers.

What are Procurement Assistant Certifications?

Procurement assistant certification is a program designed to help individuals obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to become professional procurement assistants. This certification program provides an in-depth understanding of procurement processes, policies and techniques. It focuses on developing the practical skills required for successful procurement management. The coursework covers topics such as negotiation strategies, contract management, supplier selection and evaluation, purchasing budgeting and cost analysis.

The certification can be beneficial to individuals seeking a career in the field of procurement or those looking to advance their current role in the profession. It provides a comprehensive overview of all aspects related to the profession and prepares professionals for what they need to know when performing their job responsibilities. With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the industry to employers or clients. Additionally, it can provide an advantage when competing for promotions or higher paying positions within their organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a procurement assistant certification, be sure to research the accreditation of the institution providing the certification. Look for certifications that have been approved by a recognized industry association or professional organization. This will ensure that you receive an education and training program that meets industry standards.

Related: What does a Procurement Assistant do?

Top 10 Procurement Assistant Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of supply management professionals. It is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), an international organization that provides education and resources to supply chain professionals.

The CPSM program consists of three exams: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Professional Resources Management, and Strategic Supply Management. The exams are multiple-choice tests that cover topics such as contract management, supplier relationships, supply chain strategies, risk management, and cost analysis.

It typically takes about two years to complete all three exams. To get started on the path to becoming a CPSM certified professional, you must first become a member of ISM and pay an application fee. After you have been accepted as a member, you can register for the CPSM exam.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your membership status with ISM. For non-members, it costs $595 per exam or $1,785 for all three exams; for members it costs $495 per exam or $1,485 for all three exams; and for students it costs $395 per exam or $1,185 for all three exams.

2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification awarded by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of purchasing and supply management. The CPM certification is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in the field, and it can be used to enhance career opportunities, salary potential, and job security.

The CPM certification requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge of key areas such as procurement processes, contract law, supplier relations, inventory management, and strategic sourcing. To qualify for the CPM certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in purchasing or supply chain management. They must also pass an exam that covers topics related to purchasing and supply management.

It typically takes about six months to complete the process of obtaining a CPM certification. This includes taking courses or attending seminars on purchasing and supply chain management topics, studying for the exam, registering with ISM for the exam, taking the exam itself (which is offered twice a year), and finally receiving confirmation from ISM that you have passed the exam.

The cost of obtaining a CPM certification varies depending on where you take your courses or seminars; however, it typically costs around $1,500-$2,000 USD. This cost includes registration fees for both ISM and any courses taken in preparation for the exam.

3. Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO)

Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of procurement professionals. The CPPO certification is administered by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC). The UPPCC is an independent, non-profit organization that sets standards for public procurement professionals and certifies those who meet their criteria.

The CPPO certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in public procurement and pass a comprehensive exam. Applicants must also complete an ethics training course and demonstrate a commitment to continuing education.

The CPPO exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as public procurement law, contract management, risk management, ethics, and performance measurement. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any approved testing center.

The cost for the CPPO certification varies depending on the applicant's location and whether or not they are members of the UPPCC. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$700 USD for non-members and $400-$600 USD for members.

4. Certified Professional Procurement Analyst (CPPA)

Certified Professional Procurement Analyst (CPPA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals with expertise in procurement and supply chain management. The CPPA is offered by the Institute of Supply Management (ISM), a non-profit organization that provides educational and professional development services for supply chain professionals.

The CPPA program consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical application project. The online exam covers topics such as procurement principles, processes, procedures, and regulations. It also focuses on the skills needed to effectively manage the procurement process in order to meet organizational goals. The practical application project requires candidates to develop and implement a procurement strategy for a specific business problem or opportunity.

It typically takes about four months to complete the CPPA program. In order to become certified, candidates must pass both the online exam and the practical application project with a minimum score of 70%. Candidates must also have at least three years of experience in procurement or related fields.

The cost of the CPPA program varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or not. For non-members, it costs $795 USD for the exam and $495 USD for the practical application project. For ISM members, it costs $595 USD for the exam and $295 USD for the practical application project.

5. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of supply chain professionals. The CSCP program focuses on the end-to-end supply chain from suppliers to customers and covers topics such as customer relations, global logistics, operations, procurement, inventory management and more.

It typically takes about 18 months to complete the CSCP program. To get certified, you must first pass a three-part exam that covers all aspects of supply chain management. After passing the exam, you will receive your certification and be eligible to use the CSCP designation after your name.

The cost to take the CSCP exam varies depending on your country of residence but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. You may also need to pay an additional fee for study materials or other resources that can help you prepare for the exam. Additionally, ASCM offers discounts for members of their organization or those who have completed other ASCM certifications.

6. Certified Green Purchasing Professional (CGPP)

Certified Green Purchasing Professional (CGPP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in green purchasing. The CGPP certification is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a professional organization that provides educational resources and certifications for supply chain professionals.

The CGPP certification requires candidates to demonstrate knowledge of sustainable procurement practices, including understanding of environmental regulations, green product standards, and lifecycle analysis. Candidates must also demonstrate an ability to develop and implement green purchasing policies and strategies.

It typically takes around three months to complete the CGPP certification process. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application to ISM, which includes a fee of $75 USD. After submitting the application, applicants must then take an online exam that tests their knowledge of green purchasing principles and practices. Once the exam is passed, applicants will be awarded their CGPP certification from ISM.

The cost of the CGPP certification varies depending on how long it takes you to complete the process. It includes a $75 USD application fee as well as any additional fees associated with taking the online exam or studying for it.

7. Global Sourcing Certification Program (GSCP)

The Global Sourcing Certification Program (GSCP) is an internationally recognized certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to become successful global sourcing professionals. The program covers topics such as global market analysis, supplier selection, negotiation strategies, contract management, and risk management. It also provides a comprehensive understanding of the legal and regulatory aspects of international trade.

The GSCP program consists of three levels: Basic, Advanced, and Executive. Each level requires a different amount of time to complete and has its own set of requirements. The Basic level takes approximately two weeks to complete while the Advanced level takes around four weeks to finish. The Executive level requires six weeks for completion.

To get certified in the GSCP program, you must first register for the program through the Global Sourcing Institute’s website. Once registered, you will be able to access the course materials and take part in online exams at each level. After completing all three levels successfully, you will receive your certificate from the Global Sourcing Institute.

The cost of the GSCP program varies depending on which level you are taking part in. The Basic level costs $1,495 USD; the Advanced level costs $2,495 USD; and the Executive level costs $3,995 USD.

8. Project Management Institute – Project Procurement Management Professional (PMI-PPMP)

The Project Management Institute – Project Procurement Management Professional (PMI-PPMP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage project procurement activities. The PMI-PPMP certification is intended for individuals who are responsible for the acquisition of goods and services in support of project objectives. It is an advanced level certification that requires a combination of education, experience, and successful completion of the PMI-PPMP exam.

The PMI-PPMP exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. To be eligible for the PMI-PPMP certification, candidates must have at least seven years of professional experience in project management or related fields, with at least three years dedicated to procurement management activities. Candidates must also hold a current PMI membership and submit an application form to the PMI certifying body.

The cost of the PMI-PPMP certification varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of the Project Management Institute. For members, the cost is $405 USD while nonmembers pay $555 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and proctoring fees.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their credentials by earning 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years through approved activities such as attending conferences or completing online courses related to project procurement management topics.

9. Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply – Diploma in Procurement and Supply Operations

The Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS) Diploma in Procurement and Supply Operations is a professional qualification designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed to work in the procurement and supply chain profession. The Diploma is an internationally recognised qualification that will provide you with the necessary skills to be successful in a career in procurement and supply chain management.

The CIPS Diploma consists of four modules which cover topics such as: the principles of purchasing, legal aspects of purchasing, managing supplier relationships, and project management. Each module is assessed by an online exam and takes approximately six months to complete.

To get the CIPS Diploma, you must first register with CIPS as a student member. You will then need to complete all four modules within two years. Once you have completed all four modules, you will be eligible for the diploma upon successful completion of your exams.

The cost of the CIPS Diploma varies depending on your country of residence but typically ranges from £1,000-£2,000 GBP (approximately $1,300- $2,600 USD). This cost includes registration fees, exam fees and access to study materials.

10. American Purchasing Society – Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)

The American Purchasing Society's Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and experience of individuals in the field of purchasing. The CPP certification is designed to demonstrate a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary for successful purchasing management. It is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the world for purchasing professionals.

In order to be eligible to take the CPP exam, an individual must have at least five years of purchasing-related experience, or three years with a college degree in business or related field. The exam itself consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as procurement processes, supply chain management, cost analysis, inventory control, and legal issues. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To get certified as a CPP, an individual must pass the CPP exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official certificate from the American Purchasing Society within two weeks.

The cost for taking the CPP examination varies depending on where you are located. In general, it costs around $400-$500 USD to take the exam and receive your certification.

Do You Really Need a Procurement Assistant Certificate?

No, a procurement assistant certificate is not necessary to enter the field of procurement. However, having a procurement assistant certificate can help you stand out from other applicants and make you more attractive to employers. It can also give you an edge when it comes to job interviews and could potentially lead to higher pay or better job opportunities.

A procurement assistant certificate is usually obtained through a program offered by an accredited university or college. The program usually covers topics such as purchasing principles, cost analysis, contract negotiation and management, inventory control, risk management, supplier selection and evaluation, and general business law. Having knowledge in these areas will help you become more successful as a procurement assistant.

When considering whether or not to pursue a procurement assistant certificate, it's important to consider your career goals and how this degree will benefit your future prospects. A certificate may be worthwhile if you are looking for a competitive edge in the job market or if you want to specialize in certain areas of purchasing. On the other hand, if you already have the experience required for the position then pursuing a certification may not be necessary. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide whether or not obtaining a procurement assistant certificate is worth the time and effort.

Related: Procurement Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Procurement Assistant Certifications

Q1. What is a Procurement Assistant Certification?

A1. A Procurement Assistant Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates one's knowledge and skills in the field of procurement. It typically involves passing an exam, completing a course or program, or both.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Procurement Assistant?

A2. To become certified as a Procurement Assistant, you must pass an examination administered by a recognized certifying body such as the Institute of Supply Management (ISM) or the Association for Operations Management (APICS). You may also need to complete additional training courses and/or programs in order to meet the requirements of the certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Procurement Assistant?

A3: Becoming certified as a Procurement Assistant can provide you with greater job opportunities, higher pay, improved credibility and recognition within your field, and more. It can also help you stand out from other job candidates when applying for positions in procurement-related roles.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a Procurement Assistant?

A4: Depending on which certification you pursue, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to become certified as a Procurement Assistant. The amount of time required will depend on how much time you dedicate to studying for your exams and completing any necessary training courses or programs.

Q5. Is there an age requirement for becoming certified as a Procurement Assistant?

A5: Generally speaking, there is no age requirement for becoming certified as a Procurement Assistant; however, some certifying bodies may have specific requirements based on age or experience level that must be met before taking their examinations. Be sure to check with your chosen certifying body for more information regarding their specific requirements prior to beginning the certification process.