ACSM textbooks, online webinars, and workshops are developed independently of ACSM certifications. ACSM certifications are governed by the ACSM Committee on Certification and Registry Board (CCRB), an independent certifying body of ACSM. In adherence to best practices for certifying bodies, CCRB volunteers and ACSM Certification staff are not involved in the development of preparatory programs. No preparatory programs are endorsed by the CCRB nor are they required to become ACSM certified. The CCRB and related Certification staff are solely responsible for the policies and administration of the ACSM certification programs, including applications and qualification requirements.

Requests to cancel an ACSM Webinar or to transfer to another ACSM Webinar must be sent via fax or email and be received prior to the start date of the webinar.

Email: certification@acsm.org
Fax: 317-634-7817

Transfer or cancellation requests emailed or faxed on or before the listed start date of the webinar will be charged a $15 processing fee.

Transfer or cancellation requests emailed or faxed after the listed start date of the webinar will not be honored and no money will be refunded.

NOTE: All transfer requests are contingent upon the enrollment limitations. The ACSM National Center must receive the additional fee before the candidate can be registered in the transfer webinar.

Refunds for credit card transactions processed online will be refunded back to the credit card within 2 weeks after the cancellation.

Refunds for check transactions will be refunded by check within 4-6 weeks after the cancellation.

Requests to cancel an ACSM Workshop or to transfer to another ACSM workshop site must be sent via fax or email to the ACSM National Center. All requests must be received prior to the start date of the workshop.

Email: certification@acsm.org
Fax: 317-634-7818
Transfer or cancellation requests emailed or faxed on or before the listed site workshop enrollment deadline will be charged a $75 processing fee.

Transfer or cancellation requests emailed or faxed after the listed site enrollment deadline are charged 50% (minimum $75) of the original workshop fee.

Transfer or cancellation requests emailed or faxed on the first day of the workshop will not be honored, and no money will be refunded.

NOTE: All transfer requests are contingent upon the enrollment limitations of the transfer site. The ACSM National Center must receive the additional fee before the candidate can be registered at the transfer site.

Workshop Site Cancellation
Please register early. Workshops will be cancelled 5 days prior to the event if there is low enrollment at the time. When a workshop is cancelled, candidates will be notified immediately and will receive a complete refund of all workshop fees. Transfer and cancellation policies would apply to the new site location. Refunds for credit card transactions processed online will be refunded back to the credit card within 2 weeks after the cancellation. If workshop registration was not completed online you will be refunded by check within 4 - 6 weeks after the cancellation.
If, for any reason, sites cancel a workshop or if the site is full, ACSM is not responsible for expenses incurred beyond the enrollment fees.

Housing and Local Transportation
Information regarding housing and local transportation will be provided by the individual workshop sites. We strongly recommend you refrain from making any travel or hotel reservations until the site has confirmed that the workshop has enough registered participants to run the workshop. ACSM is not responsible for travel or hotel expense. Information will be mailed by the workshop host site prior to the event.

All ACSM certification examinations are administered by our testing partner, Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE administers exams at over 5,000 in-person, computer-based testing centers throughout the world and through online proctoring, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Local testing centers, system requirements for online exams, exam accommodations, and more can be found here.

ACSM Members

Be sure to secure your member discount voucher before registering for the exam. Email the ACSM Certification Department (certification@acsm.org) with the following information:

• ACSM member ID
• Certification exam you plan to take

After receiving your member discount voucher, you may visit Pearson VUE to schedule a day and time to take your exam, or call this US based phone number 888-883-2276 (toll-free) or +1-952-905-7099 (toll).

Non-Members

ACSM members are offered a 20% discount on exams. To discover additional benefits of ACSM Membership, membership categories, and how to join, click here.

Candidates must provide two forms of proper identification. Candidates will not be seated for the exam if the proper ID is not provided. 

The primary ID must contain a permanently affixed photograph and a signature and must be valid (not expired). An ID must be an original document and not a photocopy or a fax.

• A primary ID must contain a permanently affixed photo of the candidate, along with the candidate’s signature. Acceptable primary IDs are listed in the table below.
• A secondary ID must contain the candidate’s signature. Acceptable secondary IDs are listed in the table below.

IDs are considered to be valid (non-expired) as long as they do not contain an expiration date that has passed. If there is no expiration date on an ID, it is considered to be valid. The candidate must sign the ID before arriving at the testing center; it is not acceptable for the candidate to sign the ID when checking in.

The following are acceptable forms of identification:

Acceptable forms of ID
Primary ID (picture and signature, not expired)	Secondary ID (signature, not expired)
government-issued driver’s license employee ID or work badge school ID passport military ID alien registration card (green card, permanent resident visa) credit card* ·other government-issued ID, such as a state/country identification card	U.S. Social Security card bank automatic-teller machine (ATM) card any form of ID on the Primary lists[FN1]

* A note about credit cards: A credit card can be used as a primary form of ID only if it contains both a photo and a signature and is not expired.  Most credit cards do not meet these requirements.  Any credit card can be used as a secondary form of ID, as long as it contains a signature and is not expired.  This includes major credit cards, such as VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.  It also includes department store and gasoline credit cards.

Candidates are not allowed to bring any items into the testing room.

Candidates are discouraged from bringing any personal belongings to the testing center, since these items must be stored in a secure space and are not permitted in the testing room.

Personal belongings that must be stored

The following are examples of items NOT allowed in the testing room:

• Purses
• Wallets
• Coats or jackets
• Briefcases
• Cell phones
• Backpacks
• Pagers
• Watches
• Calculators
• Pens and pencils belonging to the candidate (Only writing instruments supplied by the testing center are allowed.)
• Dictionaries, including language translation dictionaries (Many candidates try to take these into the testing room; they are not permitted unless specifically allowed by an exam sponsor.)
• Food, drinks or tobacco
• Notes, notebooks, study guides

The candidates will be provided with an erasable noteboard and erasable pen, or blank notepaper. Scratch paper of any kind is never permitted in the testing room. Candidates are not allowed to use their own paper or notebooks, and notepads of any kind are not allowed.

Candidates are not permitted to bring their own writing instruments into the testing room. The testing center must provide any pens or pencils that are required for an exam. Candidates are not permitted to write on the erasable noteboards or notepaper until after the exam has been started.

A standard or scientific calculator will be provided within the exam. The Metabolic Equations for Gross VO₂ in Metric Units table will be supplied within appropriate exams. All other formula (e.g., heart rate calculations, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio) to complete an answer will not be provided within the exam.

Certain items defined as “minor comfort aids” may be allowed in the testing room as long as the item is checked by the test center administrator before they are brought into the testing room. These include:

• Tissues, such as Kleenex
• Cough drops
• Pillow for supporting neck, back or injured limb
• Sweater or sweatshirt
• Eyeglasses and hearing aids
• Earplugs
• Neck braces or collars (worn by people with neck injuries)

A candidate must provide his or her own comfort aids. These are not considered to be accommodations and therefore do not need to be pre-approved by Pearson VUE or ACSM.

Eyedrops, water bottles, asthma inhalers, diabetic testing equipment and other medical devices are not allowed in the testing room unless the candidate has been granted an accommodation for the item in advance. Candidates should follow the accommodations policy for consideration of a comfort aid.

Prior to starting the exam, candidates will be asked to agree with the terms described in both the ACSM non-disclosure agreement (NDA), and the Code of Ethics for ACSM Certified Professionals. Candidates who do not accept the terms of these statements will not be allowed to proceed with the exam.

If the candidate requires a break during the exam, the timing of the exam will not stop.  The candidate’s ID may be checked upon returning to the exam room. 

Candidates should make every effort to arrive at the testing center at least 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment time.

If a candidate arrives within 15 minutes of the scheduled appointment time and the test center administrator is not able to seat the candidate for the exam, the candidate will have the opportunity to reschedule the exam without penalty. Because the appointment time has already passed, the test center administrator will not be able to reschedule the candidate.

If a candidate arrives more than 15 minutes after the scheduled appointment time, it is up to the discretion of the testing center as to whether or not the candidate may still take the exam (either immediately or later the same day).

If the test center is unable to accommodate a late-arriving candidate, the candidate will be unable to take the test that day.  The candidate will need to register for the exam and pay the exam fee again. The candidate’s results will be automatically entered in the testing system as “no show.”

If a candidate does not arrive for an exam at all, the candidate will be listed as a “no show” and will forfeit all fees associated with this appointment. Candidates may reschedule a new appointment, but will be responsible for rescheduling costs.

Action taken against candidates who create disturbances or conduct themselves in a manner that may jeopardize the security of an exam or the comfort of other candidates may include removal from the certification program.

Misconduct includes the following behaviors:

• using unauthorized materials in the testing room
• taking an exam for someone else
• causing disruptions of any kind
• attempting to remove exam questions or responses from the testing room
• tampering with computer hardware or software

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 (PL 101‐336) is a sweeping civil rights law which is intended to eliminate discrimination against people with disabilities in all aspects of life. The American College of Sports Medicine examination program embraces the law in both letter and spirit. Title I of the ADA states "Employers [certifying bodies] should conduct a job analysis to determine the essential functions of each job (knowledge and skills‐ KSs). When an individual with a disability meets legitimate educational, skill, and experience qualifications for a position [credential examination] the employer must make a reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodations include, but are not limited to, reassignment of non‐essential tasks, providing auxiliary aids or services, removing architectural barriers in the workplace..." Title III includes a provision for "changing rules or practices" for individuals with disabilities who meet essential eligibility requirements. Reasonable accommodations for the purpose of conducting an ACSM credential examination may include text magnification, assistive listening devices, readers, and extended time. 

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) wishes to ensure that no individual with a disability is excluded, denied services, segregated or otherwise treated differently from other individuals because of the absence of auxiliary aids and services. If a candidate needs the auxiliary aids or services identified in the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact ACSM’s Certification Department at (317) 637‐9200. 

The special accommodation request form can be found in Appendix C. 

All requests for special accommodations for an ACSM credentialing exam must be by made emailing the completed accommodations request to certification@acsm.org or mailing the completed form to ACSM Certification Department, 401 West Michigan Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202‐3233.

The ACSM Committee on Certification and Registry Boards (CCRB) defines irregular behavior as any behavior that undermines or threatens the integrity of the application, assessment, or certification processes of ACSM CCRB, whether it occurs before, during or after an exam.

Irregular behavior may include, but is not limited to, having or seeking access to exam materials before the exam, impersonating an examinee or engaging someone else to take the exam by proxy, copying answers from someone else or allowing one’s answers to be copied, copying or memorizing and reproducing test items, altering or misrepresenting scores, stealing exam materials, possessing unauthorized materials during a computer-based exam (e.g., recording devices, photographic materials, printed reference material) or other such behavior which may cast doubt on the exam results of that or another person. It may also include making false representations during the application process or in connection with certification status, altering or falsifying ACSM certificates or other documents, or making the false representation that one is certified by ACSM by using the legally-protected identity marks.

The content of all ACSM CCRB exams and its items are proprietary and strictly confidential, and the unauthorized retention, possession, copying, distribution, disclosure, discussion, or receipt of any examination question, in whole or in part, by written, electronic, oral or other form of communication, including but not limited to e-mailing, copying or printing of electronic files, and reconstruction through memorization and/or dictation, before, during, or after an examination, is strictly prohibited. In addition to constituting irregular behavior subject to disciplinary action such as revocation of certification or revocation of eligibility for future certification for a specified period of time, such activities violate ACSM’s proprietary rights, including copyrights, and may subject violators to legal action.

Exam applicants or examinees can be disqualified from taking or continuing to sit for an examination, or from receiving examination scores, and may be required to retake an examination if, at its sole discretion, the ACSM CCRB Executive Council (CCRB EC) determines through proctor observation, statistical analysis or any other means available to it, that said exam applicants or examinees were engaged in collaborative, disruptive, or other irregular behavior before, during the administration of, or following, the examination, or if the ACSM CCRB EC determines that the integrity or validity of the examination otherwise is in question.

In some instances, while the evidence of irregularity is sufficiently strong to cast doubt upon the validity of scores, such evidence may not enable the ACSM CCRB EC to identify the particular individuals involved. In any such circumstances, the ACSM CCRB EC reserves the right to withhold the scores of all candidates, including candidates not directly implicated in the irregularity and, if necessary, to require all candidates to take an additional examination at a later date under conditions which will ensure the validity of all scores.

Anyone who has information or evidence that irregular behavior has occurred should submit a written, signed statement to the ACSM CCRB EC as describe in the “Complaints” policy, detailing the incident with copies of any supporting evidence or documentation.

If the ACSM CCRB EC determines that allegations of irregular behavior are true, the organization may impose sanctions against the offending individual, which may include temporary or permanent loss of eligibility for exams or certification, revocation of an existing certificate, suspension of certification, invalidation of scores, or other sanctions as deemed appropriate. Such sanctions also may include legal action against the offending individual.

The CCRB EC shall maintain a record of all appeals, take appropriate action regarding the appeal in a timely manner, and document the actions taken. Candidates or certificants who perceive a lack of due process may appeal to the CCRB EC.

Metabolic Calculations for the ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) and ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) exams will be provided. Candidates should select the "Exhibit" tab within the exam to access the calculations.

Metabolic Calculations for Estimation of Energy Expenditure (V̇O_2max [mL ∙ kg^-1 ∙ min^-1])

 

Walking

V̇O₂ (mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1) = (0.1 ∙ S) + (1.8∙S∙G) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Running

V̇O₂ (mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1) = (0.2 ∙ S) + (0.9∙S∙G) + 3.5 mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Stepping

V̇O₂ (mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1) = (0.2 ∙ f) + (1.33 ∙ 1.8 ∙ H ∙ f) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Leg Cycling

V̇O₂ (mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1) = 1.8 (work rate)/(BM) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1 + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Arm Cycling

V̇O₂ (mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1) = 3 (work rate)/(BM) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

V̇O₂ = gross oxygen consumption (mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1)

S = speed (m∙min^-1)

BM = body mass (kg)

Score reports will be distributed when a candidate returns all testing materials, including the erasable noteboard, and all other sign-out procedures have been completed.

Each score report will be digitally embossed to verify the authenticity of the report. The digital embossing is a unique set of codes that can be used to verify the authenticity of the report and a registration number and a validation number appear on the bottom of each score report. Candidates can visit Pearson VUE’s authentication Web site: www.pearsonvue.com/authenticate and enter the unique set of codes and find out whether or not the score report is valid. Verification is available approximately 48 hours after completion of the exam.

Candidates receive their exam scaled score and pass/fail status immediately upon submission of their completed examination. Only the scaled score determines pass/fail status. Domain level performance is only provided as a guide for failed candidates to identify areas of strength and weakness should they choose to take the examination in the future.

ACSM’s CCRB reserves the right to void exam results, pending receipt, investigation, and confirmation of any subsequent incident reports regarding irregular behavior, either from a candidate or Pearson VUE testing center staff.

All candidates who successfully complete an ACSM certification exam are subject to an audit to confirm their eligibility, and/or the status of their CPR certification.

Every month, 15% of candidates who received a passing score in the previous month for the ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist credential will be audited for completion of an academic degree using a third-party vendor.  If a degree cannot be confirmed using the third-party vendor, ACSM will contact the candidate and request an official transcript noting the completed degree.  Transcripts must be submitted within 30 days of the request by ACSM.

ACSM will contact the audited candidate by email, therefore it is imperative that candidates keep their contact information updated with ACSM. ACSM will issue a digital credential to those who successfully complete their audit.

Additionally, candidates who received a passing score on any ACSM certification exam in the previous month may be audited to verify current CPR certification. If contacted in this regard, candidates must provide documentation of their current CPR status within 30 days of the request by ACSM.

ACSM reserves the right to revoke the credential of any individual that cannot verify their eligibility and/or their current CPR certification as part of the ACSM audit verification process.

Unlike taking a college class where you need to get a certain percent of exam questions correct to pass or have your exam score compared to others (i.e., bell curve), testing companies like ACSM use what’s called a compensatory scoring model. ACSM examinations are scored according to procedures accepted by the American Psychological Association, the American Educational Research Association, and the National Council on Measurement in Education. The candidate’s score is derived from the number of questions answered correctly, and is then converted to a scaled score ranging from 200 to 800 points, with the passing point set at a scaled score of 550 points. Candidates who earn a scaled score of 550 or above points are awarded the ACSM certification for which they tested.

All test forms for an examination are built to a standardized test blueprint; see I.F. Using an exam specification ensures that test forms are comparable in content coverage, that test content is weighted in accordance with the requirements for competent performance, and that all forms of the examinations adhere to standards for content validity. However, the scored items for an exam change over time. This is done to ensure the content is up-to-date and relevant, and to enhance test security. Since items differ in terms of how ease or difficulty, exam forms may not be equally difficult. As a result, ACSM conducts reviews of the exam forms to ensure that the passing score required is adjusted (also known as equating) so that it is equivalent across the different exam forms. Equating ensures that the passing scaled score of 550 means that exam candidates met the same level of knowledge, skill, or ability regardless of which exam form is taken.

Exam candidates receive their exam scaled score and pass/fail status upon submission of the examination for scoring.

All requests to cancel or transfer exams must be made either by calling Pearson Vue at this US based phone number 888-883-2276 or in your account at www.pearsonvue.com/acsm. 

Reschedule Policy

Candidates who wish to reschedule their exam must contact Pearson VUE one business day prior to the exam appointment. Candidates will be charged $35 USD each time an exam is rescheduled. Candidates who reschedule an exam less than one business day in advance, or fail to appear for the exam, will forfeit their exam fee. If the candidate does not arrive within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time, then the candidate is considered a no-show and has forfeited the exam and will forfeit their exam fee.

Cancellation Policy

Candidates who wish to cancel their exam must contact Pearson VUE one business day prior to their exam appointment and pay a $75 USD cancellation fee. Candidates who cancel an exam less than one business day in advance or fail to appear for the exam, will forfeit their exam fee.

If the candidate does not arrive within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time, then the candidate is considered a no-show and has forfeited the exam and will forfeit their exam fee.

Re-test candidates will receive a re-test voucher code on the score report from Pearson VUE. Candidates may retake the exam fifteen (15) days following a failed attempt.

OnVUE testing is not offered in the following countries: China, Cuba, India, Iran, Japan, Korea North, Korea South, and Sudan. 

Online proctored exams do not include a scheduled break. Candidates who leave their computer for any reason during your exam the proctor will automatically terminate the exams. Candidates will be unable to continue testing.

Water in a clear glass is allowed during testing; however, eating, smoking, and chewing gum are prohibited.

Due to the nature and restrictions of online proctoring, additional time and other accommodations are not available. If you have special accommodations, standard testing at a testing center is advised. 

Metabolic Calculations for the ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) and ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) exams will be provided. Candidates should select the "Exhibit" tab within the exam to access the calculations.

Metabolic Calculations for Estimation of Energy Expenditure (V̇O_2max [mL ∙ kg^-1 ∙ min^-1])

 

Walking

V̇O₂ (mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1) = (0.1 ∙ S) + (1.8∙S∙G) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Running

V̇O₂ (mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1) = (0.2 ∙ S) + (0.9∙S∙G) + 3.5 mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Stepping

V̇O₂ (mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1) = (0.2 ∙ f) + (1.33 ∙ 1.8 ∙ H ∙ f) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Leg Cycling

V̇O₂ (mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1) = 1.8 (work rate)/(BM) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1 + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

Arm Cycling

V̇O₂ (mL∙ kg^-1∙min^-1) = 3 (work rate)/(BM) + 3.5 mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1

 

V̇O₂ = gross oxygen consumption (mL∙kg^-1∙min^-1)

S = speed (m∙min^-1)

BM = body mass (kg)

During the online exam, you may not access the following types of personal items: mobile phones, headphones or headsets (wired or Bluetooth), handheld computers or other electronic devices, pagers, watches, wallets, purses, hats (or other head coverings), bags, coats, books, notes, or any other materials not specifically approved.

During the exam session, you are not allowed to use exam-specific materials or scratch paper, erasable whiteboards, or any other physical writing object, such as a pen, marker, or pencil.

Watches must be removed and placed out of sight/reach during the exam.

During your OnVUE exam, you may have the option to use a built-in digital whiteboard feature to do scratch work or take notes. Physical scratch paper or note boards are not allowed when taking an OnVUE exam.

In OnVUE, there is a chat function that candidates would use to get the proctors attention.

Candidates are not be able to use any paper or pencil or dry erase boards. Pearson VUE provides a product called WHITEBOARD.

Candidates must sign in to the web account to schedule their exam. After selecting the exam, choose the “home or office” option. Follow the remaining prompts to complete the scheduling process. After successfully scheduling the exam appointment, candidates will be sent a confirmation email that will provide the appointment details and key information to know for the exam.

Candidates cannot use a computer with a firewall.  Candidates may get through the self-check-in process, but will have difficulty launching the exam. A good strong internet connection that is consistent will be needed for successful testing.

No external equipment is allowed, such as a separate monitor.  The exam will not launch, could cause black screen, etc. and will be revoked.

ACSM emails renewal bimonthly reminders prior to the expiration date of the professional certification, and also sends mails notifications 30 and 60 days prior to the expiration date. ACSM certificants may access their web account at any time to check the status and expiration dates of their certifications, update and verify CEC information on file, attest to maintaining a current CPR/AED, and renew certifications.

ACSM certificants have two certification renewal options:

Option 1

(1) Accumulate and report CECs within the appropriate certification period

(2) Maintain a current CPR and AED certification

(3) Pay the administrative fee by December 31 of the final reporting cycle

Option 2

(1) Meet the current certification requirement(s)

(2) Register and pay related fees

(3) Pass the certification exam before the 12/31 of the final year of the CEC reporting cycle.

Certificants may renew their certification during the last year of their certification cycle; however, CECs must be accrued during the current certification cycle and cannot be applied to future cycles. Renewals can be completed online via the My ACSM Account. 

Alternatively, candidates may mail or fax the completed paper recertification form to the following:

ACSM National Center

Department 6022

Carol Stream, IL 60122-6022

It is important for certificants to keep track of earned CECs for their records. Documentation should only be sent to ACSM in case of a recertification audit. Credits are to be tracked online through the self-reporting tool in the ACSM profile ("CEC History/Certification" tab).

To move your progress bar, earn CECs on our ceOnline page or self-report the CECs you have earned through outside organizations.

If an individual earns more than one ACSM certification, they may renew all ACSM certifications simultaneously. Educational content must be consistent with the JTAs to which the CECs are being applied. A $5 USD fee is assessed for each additional credential. For example, if a candidate is renewing both the ACSM-EP and the ACSM-CPT certifications, the recertification fee would be $60 USD ($55 USD for the ACSM-EP and $5 USD for the ACSM-CPT).  CPR/AED certificate must be current at the time of renewing an ACSM certification.

ACSM certifications are valid for three (3) years with a termination date of December 31 on the third year. For example, a certification earned in January of 2021 would expire December 31, 2024. All certifications that are not completed on or before the recertification deadline are considered expired.

Grace Period and Late Recertification

Certificants who fail to complete recertification during their scheduled period are automatically granted a six-month grace period. During the grace period the certification is considered expired. Inactive certificants will not receive any benefits of being certified. All benefits will be re-instated as soon as the late-reporting certificant successfully completes the recertification form and pays both the administrative fee and late fee. Once the ACSM Recertification Form has been accepted, the next recertification cycle will continue on the original schedule.

Expired certificants may continue to earn CECs during their grace period. CECs earned during the grace period do not roll forward and will not be applied to the next recertification cycle. The late recertification process may be completed on the My ACSM Portal. Late recertification is assessed two fees: (1) recertification fee of $35-55 USD (see Section III A1) and (2) late renewal fee of $75 USD.

Exceptions to the extension policy are considered on a case-by-case basis for documented cases of serious illness, bereavement, military deployment, natural disasters, and other emergencies. In these instances, certificants must contact the ACSM Certification Department directly via phone at 317-367-9200, ext. 115, or via email at certification@acsm.org to request reinstatement of their certification.

Reinstatement

Individuals beyond their grace period may be eligible to apply for reinstatement. Expired certificants must provide documentation a complete history of CECs documentation, current CPR/AED certification, and pay a reinstatement fee of $150 USD per certification. All CECs must have been earned during the appropriate recertification cycle. Individuals with lapsed certification who do not have enough CECs to recertify must retake their certification.

Reinstatements are reviewed by the CCRB Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Subcommittee. Candidates will be notified by email if their reinstatement is approved and will be provided information on the next recertification deadline. Incomplete application or missing CECs will result in an automatic rejection.

The emeritus status allows individuals to be recognized for their professional experience and are no longer practicing as an exercise professional. Emeriti professionals are not required to obtain CECs to maintain their recognition.

An emeritus status is available for those who meet the following criteria:

• 65-years-old or older
• Continuously certified for at least 10 years
• Retired (no longer practicing as an exercise professional)

Individuals may request an emeritus application by emailing certification@acsm.org. The cost of reinstatement is $150 USD per certification.

Certificants have access to a variety of affordable professional development opportunities to keep their skills current and provide a simple path to renewing their certification every three years. ACSM provides multiple continuing education opportunities in in-person meetings or online. ACSM also has an extensive ACSM-Approved CEC Provider Program and accepts non-ACSM CECs as long as the content is directly related to ACSM certifications.

ceOnline

 

ACSM ceOnline provides high-quality continuing education opportunities for certified health and fitness professionals around the world. The convenient online self-tests cover a wide variety of fitness education and continuing education topics and is continually updated. All of the CEC opportunities are available completely online, are self-paced, and offered at different credit and price levels.

Preview and purchase CEC credit opportunities at https://www.acsm.org/learn-develop-professionally 

Have questions about ceOnline? E-mail onlinelearning@acsm.org.

ACSM Annual Meeting

At ACSM’s Annual Meeting, World Congress on Exercise is Medicine® and World Congress on the Basic Science of Exercise you’ll find sessions covering virtually every aspect of sports medicine, exercise science and the benefits of physical activity. Internationally recognized as the place to hear leading experts and learn about the latest research, this conference brings science and practice together. More than 6,000 industry professionals from around the globe make the ACSM Annual Meeting their priority conference.

View the schedule, registration information, program tracks and more at http://www.acsmannualmeeting.org/.

ACSM International Health & Fitness Summit

American College of Sports Medicine invites you to learn from the world’s top exercise science experts at ACSM’s International Health & Fitness Summit. Exercise both body and mind through inspiring keynote sessions, hands-on workshops, stimulating lectures, and vigorous Master Class workouts. A broad range of opportunities for continuing education credits will keep you at the top of your game.

View the schedule, registration information, program tracks and more at http://acsmsummit.org/.

 

ACSM Regional Chapters

Twelve Regional Chapters throughout the United States ensures easy access to regional

educational meetings. Enjoy unmatched opportunities to network with professionals and

students close to home.

 

 

ACSM Approved Providers
ACSM has over 150 approved CEC providers that provide educational opportunities in-person and home study options. Certificants will find a wide variety of fitness education and continuing education topics that fit most interest areas. Approved Providers and their content reflect the concepts of their respective organizations and may not directly represent the positions or policies of ACSM.

View ACSM’s pre-approved providers here.

Non-ACSM-approved CEC

CECs may be applied to recertification that are not pre-approved by ACSM. For CECs to be accepted, the education provider must have a governing body or major fitness organizations CEC approval.

It is strongly recommended that certificants keep a copy of their CEC documentation in case of a renewal audit. ACSM does not post CECs earned through other organizations in the certificant’s ACSM online profile. Candidates may manually add CECs using through the My ACSM Portal. Log in and click on, “CEC History/Certification” and use the “Self-Reporting Tool”.

Authoring or Co-Authoring Books, Journal Articles, or Accepted Abstract

You can earn 10 CECs for publications in peer-reviewed professional journals, books, or accepted abstracts; authored or co-authored.

College Credit

ACSM awards 10 CECs per college credit hour as long as the course meets the following criteria:

• Certificant receives credit for the course after becoming certified
• The course grade is a C or better
• The course content is directly related to the ACSM certification(s)

Examples of acceptable courses are the following: exercise science, kinesiology, exercise physiology, human performance, physical education, athletic training and anatomy.

Please refer to the job task analysis (JTA) found here. Certificants must keep a copy of the college transcripts in case of a recertification audit. When entering college courses, the self-reporting tool does NOT automatically convert your CECs. You must enter them as the converted rate of college credit multiplied by 10.

Teaching and Lecturing

Thirty percent of CECs can be earned by teaching and lecturing.

Teaching: certificants may claim 1 CEC per contact hour of academic teaching at the college level if the content is consistent with the knowledge and/or skills of the ACSM certification(s) and the course is taught at an accredited institution. Credit can be claimed for teaching the course content once during a recertification cycle.

Lecturing: certificants can claim 1 CEC per hour of professional lecturing if it is a lecture given at the state, regional, or national level and/or if CECs are offered for the lecture attendees.

Support documentation will be required if audited. For example, course catalog, course syllabus, letter from supervisor, meeting brochure showing the certificant as a lecturer.

ACSM does not award credits for CPR or BLS, as they are required for ACSM specific credentials. Educational courses for ACLS may be applied toward recertification. The number of educational contact hours for ACLS training are equivalent to the number of CECs awarded (e.g., 3 contact hours = 3 ACSM CECs).

Note: This does not include the actual completion of the ACLS certification exam.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: CPR/AED Requirements Amended

The following procedures allow individuals to bring complaints concerning the conduct of individuals who are candidates, registrants, or certificants of ACSM.

In the event an individual candidate, registrant, or certificant violates the Code of Ethics for ACSM Certified and Registered Professionals, certification rules, or ACSM policies the CCRB may reprimand or suspend the individual or may revoke certification.

The grounds for sanctions under these procedures may include, but are not limited to:

1. Violation of the Code of Ethics for ACSM Certified and Registered Professionals.
2. Violation of established ACSM policies, rules, and requirements.
3. Conviction of a felony or other crime of moral turpitude under federal or state law in a matter related to the practice of, or qualifications for, employment support services.
4. Gross negligence, willful misconduct, or other unethical conduct in the performance of services for which the individual has achieved certification from ACSM.
5. Fraud or misrepresentation in an initial application or renewal application for certification.
6. Irregular behavior that undermines or threatens the integrity of the application, assessment or certification processes of ACSM CCRB.

Information regarding the complaint process are available to the public via the ACSM website or other published documents. A complete copy of this policy will be made available to any individual upon request.

Actions taken under this policy do not constitute enforcement of the law, although referral to appropriate federal, state, or local government agencies may be made about the conduct of the candidate or certificant in appropriate situations. Individuals initially bringing complaints are not entitled to any relief or damages by virtue of this process, although they will receive notice of the actions taken.

For each compliant that the Chair concludes is a valid and actionable complaint, the CCRB authorizes an investigation into its specific facts or circumstances to whatever extent is necessary in order to clarify, expand, or corroborate the information provided by the submitter.

The Chair notifies the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee to investigate and make an appropriate determination with respect to each valid and actionable complaint; the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee may review one or more such complaints as determined by the Chair. The ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee initially determines whether it is appropriate to review the complaint under these Procedures or whether the matter should be referred to another entity engaged in the administration of law. The timeline for responses and for providing any additional information shall be established by the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee. The review and investigation will be completed in an appropriate amount of time, not to exceed six months, unless there are extenuating circumstances that require an extended time period. The ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee may be assisted in the conduct of its investigation by other members of the CCRB, ACSM staff, or legal counsel. The Chair exercises general supervision over all investigations. 

Both the individual submitting the complaint and the candidate/certificant who is the subject of the investigation (or his or her employer) may be contacted for additional information with respect to the complaint. The ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee, CCRB EC, or ACSM staff on its behalf, may at its discretion contact such other individuals who may have knowledge of the facts and circumstances surrounding the complaint.

All investigations and deliberations of the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee and the CCRB are conducted in confidence, with all written communications sealed and marked "Personal and Confidential," and they are conducted objectively, without any indication of prejudgment. An investigation may be directed toward any aspect of a complaint which is relevant or potentially relevant. Formal hearings are not held and the parties are not expected to be represented by counsel, although the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee and ACSM may consult their own counsel.

Members of the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee shall be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in connection with the activities of the subcommittee.

Upon completion of an investigation, the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee recommends whether the ACSM CCRB EC should make a determination that there has been a violation of ACSM policies and rules. When the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee recommends that the CCRB EC find a violation, the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee also recommends imposition of an appropriate sanction. If the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee so recommends, a proposed determination with a proposed sanction is prepared under the supervision of the Chair and is presented by a representative of the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee to the CCRB along with the record of the subcommittee’s investigation.  

If the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee recommends against a determination that a violation has occurred, the complaint is dismissed with notice to the candidate/registrant/certificant and the individual or entity who submitted the complaint.

The CCRB EC reviews the recommendation of the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee based upon the record of the investigation. The CCRB EC may accept, reject, or modify the subcommittee’s recommendation, either with respect to the determination of a violation or the recommended sanction to be imposed. If the CCRB EC makes a determination that a violation has occurred, this determination and the imposition of a sanction are promulgated by written notice to the candidate/certificant, and to the individual submitting the complaint, if the submitter agrees in advance and in writing to maintain in confidence whatever portion of the information is not made public by the CCRB EC.

In certain circumstances, the CCRB EC may consider a recommendation from the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee that the candidate/registrant/certificant who has violated the certification program policies or rules shall be offered an opportunity to submit a written assurance that the conduct in question has been terminated and will not recur. The decision of the subcommittee to make such a recommendation and of the CCRB EC to accept it are within their respective discretionary powers. If such an offer is extended, the candidate/registrant/certificant at issue must submit the required written assurance within 30 days of receipt of the offer, and the assurance must be submitted in terms that are acceptable to the CCRB EC. If the CCRB EC accepts the assurance, notice is given to the candidate/ registrant/certificant and to the submittesr of the complaint, if the submitter agrees in advance and in writing to maintain the information in confidence.

Any of the following sanctions may be imposed by the CCRB EC upon a candidate/registrant/certificant whom the CCRB EC has determined to have violated the policies and rules of its certification program(s), although the sanction applied must reasonably relate to the nature and severity of the violation, focusing on reformation of the conduct of the member and deterrence of similar conduct by others:

1. written reprimand to the candidate/registrant/certificant;
2. suspension of the certificant for a designated period; or
3. suspension of the candidate/registrant’s application eligibility for a designated period; or
4. termination of the certificant's certification from the ACSM; or
5. termination of the candidate/registrant’s application eligibility for a designated period.

For sanctions that include suspension or termination, a summary of the final determination and the sanction with the candidate/registrant/certificant's name and date is published by the ACSM. This information will be published only after any appeal has either been considered or the appeal period has passed.

Reprimand in the form of a written notice from the Chair normally is sent to a candidate/registrant/ certificant who has received his or her first substantiated complaint. Suspension normally is imposed on a candidate/registrant/certificant who has received two substantiated complaints. Termination normally is imposed on a candidate/registrant/certificant who has received two substantiated complaints within a two-year period, or three or more substantiated complaints. The CCRB EC may at its discretion, however, impose any of the sanctions, if warranted, in specific cases.

Certificants who have been terminated shall have their certification revoked and may not be considered for ACSM certification in the future. Terminated certificants must immediately cease all activity that directly states or indirectly implies active certification by ACSM.

If a certificant who is the subject of a complaint voluntarily surrenders his or her ACSM certification at any time during the pendency of a complaint under these Procedures, the complaint is dismissed without any further action by the ACSM CCRB Ethics Subcommittee, the CCRB EC, or an Appeal Committee established after an appeal. The entire record is sealed and the individual may not reapply for certification by the ACSM. However, the ACSM may authorize the Chair to communicate the fact and date of resignation, and the fact and general nature of the complaint which was pending at the time of the resignation, to or at the request of a government entity engaged in the administration of law. Similarly, in the event of such resignation, the person or entity who submitted the complaint are notified of the fact and date of resignation and that the complaint has been dismissed as a result.