UPPCC Discontinues Delayed Eligibility

Since 2002, the Universal Public Purchasing Certification Council (UPPCC) has offered applicants the option of applying for certification under delayed eligibility status. Delayed Eligibility allows individuals to take the certification examination(s) prior to fully meeting experience and/or coursework requirements. If successful on the examination(s), the UPPCC withholds the certification until all requirements are met. Delayed eligibility status has allowed applicants to pursue certification and earn practical experience and coursework hours simultaneously.

With the introduction of situational questions into the new examinations in 2008, it will be necessary for all exam candidates to possess the prescribed practical experience listed in the appropriate eligibility schedule prior to sitting for the examination. Therefore, the practice of applying under delayed eligibility is being phased out of the UPPCC application process.

“The Council is dedicated to ensuring that all candidates are given equal opportunity to be successful in their certification endeavors. Thus we feel it our responsibility to ensure that all applicants have met all eligibility requirements including education hours and experience before testing occurs,” says Don Buffum, CPPO, Chairman of the Council.

Individuals with applications on file under delayed eligibility will be permitted to continue based on the previous delayed eligibility policy under which the individual applied.

Delayed eligibility will be phased out over the coming year. Though new applicants may still apply under delayed eligibility status through Aug. 31, 2007, they should recognize that any outstanding experience or coursework requirements must be met by the end of the phase-out period of Aug. 31, 2007. As of Sept. 1, 2007, any applicant applying for UPPCC certifications must fully meet all eligibility requirements at the time of application.

Certification fees will remain the same, however those applicants who cannot qualify and will no longer have the option of delaying eligibility may request a partial refund of certification fees. Certification fees (application, initial exam(s), and administrative fees) are combined into one payment payable to UPPCC at the time of application. However, in the event the application is not approved, the applicant may receive a refund representative of the portion associated with the examination fee(s).

The “Handbook for Professional Certification in Public Procurement” has been updated to reflect the changes in this announcement. Applicants for certification must use the current edition of the application (September 2006) and are responsible for program policies and procedures as outlined in the current Handbook (September 2006).

For more information, visit the Frequently Asked Questions section on the UPPCC Web site at www.govinfo.bz/5973-165.