About the CAE
What is the CAE? Why should I pursue it?
The Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation is intended to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and identify association professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of association management. Founded in 1960, the CAE program stands as a mark of excellence and reflects what it takes to manage an association in today's challenging climate. The CAE program was accredited in 2010 and reaccredited in 2020. There are more than 4,700 CAEs.
Becoming a CAE shows your commitment to the association profession, lifelong learning and a pursuit of knowledge in the profession. Among association leaders, the CAE designation has become known and appreciated as a mark of distinction. Individuals pursue the CAE for reasons that include professional development, career planning and professional pride, dedication to their career, a personal belief in the association profession, and self-fulfillment. More information. CAE FAQs .
Eligibility Requirements
To take the CAE exam you must meet work experience, bachelor’s degree, and professional development criteria (100 hours of association professional development in the previous five years), commit to uphold the ASAE Standards of Conduct, and pay an exam fee. More information.
Preparation and Planning
CAE candidates may choose to join an in person or virtual study group, study course, do self study or a combination. Exam content outline. CAE Core Resources.
The Exam
The CAE exam is offered every May and December. The test is administered at scheduled test sites throughout the U.S. and internationally at Scantron testing centers. Candidates also have the option of taking the exam from their home or other suitable location with a live remote proctoring option (LRP). Exam information and dates. CAE Exam FAQs .
Renewal
CAEs can renew their certification by earning 40 hours of approved CAE credits every three years. More information.
Additional Links
- For a listing of NYSAE's educational offerings that qualify for CAE qualified points, click here.
- For CAE Prep course information through our partner, MSAE, along with discount information, click here.
- Roster of current CAEs
- New CAEs by date (select year for news release and scroll down for a list) or search "ASAE Announces CAEs YYYY" (YYYY = year)
- CAE Annual Report Stats including exam pass rates and recertification rates
- List of Approved CAE Providers, including NYSAE