Your Path to the CAE

Ready to take the next step toward the association industry's highest professional credential? ESSAE can help you navigate the CAE process—from understanding eligibility and earning qualifying professional-development credits to preparing for the exam.

This page is updated regularly with current CAE exam dates and deadlines, preparation opportunities, ESSAE study-group information, and programs that can support your CAE journey.

New to Professional Credentials?

Visit ESSAE's evergreen CAE & CMP page for an overview of the CAE and CMP, credential maintenance information, other professional credentials, and our credentialing glossary.

Planning for the December 2026 Exam?

Interested in participating in an ESSAE CAE study group before the December 2026 exam? Connect with other candidates, share resources, participate in study sessions, and get support throughout the preparation process.

Six Steps to Your CAE

Check Your Eligibility

Before applying for the CAE exam, candidates must meet ASAE's eligibility requirements related to professional experience, education, professional development, and professional conduct.

CAE candidates generally must:

• Have five years of staff-level experience at a qualifying organization or one year of experience as a chief staff executive or C-suite-level executive.
• Be currently employed by a qualifying organization or have been employed by one within the past five years.
• Hold a bachelor's degree or have eight additional years of professional work experience.
• Complete 100 hours of broad-based, association management-related professional development within the five years before applying.
• Commit to upholding the ASAE Standards of Conduct and meet the CAE Commission's professional-conduct requirements.

Alternative eligibility pathways may be available for qualifying consultants, contractors, and industry partners.

Eligibility requirements can change. Review ASAE's current requirements before applying for the CAE exam.

Prepare for the Exam

Preparing for the CAE exam takes time, planning, and a study approach that works for you—but you do not have to prepare on your own.

Start with ESSAE's CAE Overview Presentation

Want the full picture in one place? ESSAE's accessible CAE overview presentation explains what the CAE is, why association professionals pursue it, and the process for earning and maintaining the credential.

The presentation covers:

• Eligibility requirements and qualifying professional development
• The six steps to earning your CAE
• Anticipated costs and time commitments
• Exam content and knowledge domains
• Core resources and study methods
• Exam-day information and tips
• Maintaining your CAE after you earn it

The presentation also includes current CAE exam dates, fees, ESSAE resources, and programs that can support your journey. Because dates, fees, and requirements may change, the presentation is reviewed and dated periodically. Candidates should always confirm final requirements and deadlines with ASAE.

Presentation updated August 2026.