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Certified Performance Technologist (CPT)
Setting the StandardCPT is a credential offered by ISPI that recognizes consistent, worthy performance achieved through a systematic process. It is the sole performance improvement credential available that is based on a comprehensive demonstration of real-world experience and competence across multiple projects.

CPT STANDARDS
There are 10 performance standards that competent practitioners follow in the practice of human performance improvement.

IS CPT RIGHT FOR YOU?
The self-assessment guide is intended to help you identify your proficiency in the 10 CPT Standards. It can be used to assess your readiness to apply for the CPT, identify areas you may need to improve.

EVALUATION GUIDELINES
The CPT evaluation guidelines define the criteria and evidence used to review your CPT application and validate your application as qualified for the CPT designation.
How to Become an ISPI
Certified Performance Technologist
1PREPARE
Download the CPT self-assessment to evaluate your readiness & verify you meet requirements.
2CHECK PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Review the ISPI 10 Standards that every competent performance improvement practitioner follows. Your application must show how you applied each one across multiple projects.
3APPLY
Download & complete your application. Use a password to save the Word document
4SUBMIT
Submit your application & pay the application fee online
5REVIEW & VALIDATION
A qualified reviewer will review all the documentation and determine if all requirements have been met
CPT Eligibility Requirements
Do you meet all requirements? Get started with your application.
1. Experience
You must have 3 + years experience in performance improvement or a related field.
2. Verifiable Competency
You must have verifiable competency in the ISPI 10 Standards across multiple projects.
Your application must include:
- Detailed descriptions of work performed in multiple projects in a manner that demonstrates the use of each of the Standards
- Attestations from internal/external clients or supervisors
Note: You can but do not have to take a CPT preparation workshop (see FAQ below).
3. Ethics Commitment
You must commit to the ISPI's Code of Ethics.
FAQs about CPT
What training is required to apply for the CPT credential?
None. The CPT credential requires verifiable experience in performance improvement. It is the sole competency-based performance improvement credential available. No courses, training, or education is required to apply for the CPT credential.
How long is a CPT credential valid for?
Once a CPT credential is issued, it is valid for three years. Recertification is based on continued work in the field, adherence to the Code of Ethics, and the accumulation of 40 CPT Recertification Points for Continuing Education (CE), volunteer service, and/or contributions to the field during the three-year period.
What happens if my CPT application is denied?
If your application does not meet one or more Standards, you will be notified in writing which Standard(s) was/were not met and why. This will include written feedback from the CPT Reviewers.
You will have three options available:
- Re-submit a revised application to meet the identified Standard(s) within the next 12 months at no additional charge.
- Choose not to re-submit a revised application. ISPI will refund the certification fee less $250 that is used to pay for the reviews.
- Appeal the decision to ISPI within two weeks of receipt. If appealed, another impartial reviewer will evaluate your application.
How long does the CPT application review process take?
CPT applications are processed upon submission. An estimated time for review will be provided with your application acknowledgement.
Who can I contact if I have questions about CPT certification?
If you have any questions during about the CPT certification or application process, please email info@ispi.org.
How much is the CPT application fee?
The CPT application fee is all inclusive and covers your application processing, qualified review, and certification issuance.
Do I have to take a CPT preparation workshop?
Although CPT preparation workshops may improve the likelihood of obtaining CPT certification, ISPI does not require that CPT applicants participate in a CPT preparation workshop and does not take into consideration whether a CPT applicant has participated in a preparation workshop. CPT preparation workshops are designed entirely by the offerors of CPT workshops, who are solely responsible for workshop design, content, and presentation.
ISPI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. EIN: 52-1080922
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