Certified Association Executives - CAE

What is a CAE?

A CAE is a Certified Association Executive. The CAE designation is designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and designate those who demonstrate knowledge essential to the practice of association management. The CAE exam and certification are administered through the American Society of Association Executives, ASAE.

Want to learn more about the CAE program and eligibility? The FSAE YEP Committee hosted a Free Webinar on CAE / CMP Test Prep & general info. Watch the recording

The Impact of the CAE

  • Drives professional self-confidence: 70% of CAE test takers report enhancing knowledge, improving advancement opportunities, and elevating their status in their current position as their motivation
  • Widespread value and recognition: particularly among your board leaders, members, and those involved in hiring nonprofit professionals including executive recruiters and association HR directors.
  • Opens doors and creates connections: through a range of CAE-only events and increased volunteer leadership opportunities through ASAE & The Center and local, state, and regional association professional societies.

CAE 2020 & Beyond

The CAE program announced updates for 2020 including a 1-hour ethics requirement for renewals, digital badging, online applications and online tests beginning May 2020. Learn more on the program updates here.

These links will help guide you through your CAE application process:

Join the select group of peers nationwide who have chosen to attain this high level of excellence and achievement. Learn more at www.WhatIsCAE.org.

Recommended Reading from ASAE:

1. Association Law Handbook, 6th edition
2. ASAE Handbook of Professional Practices in Association Management, 3rd edition
3. The Jossey-Bass Handbook of Nonprofit Leadership and Management, 4th edition
4. How to Read Nonprofit Financial Statements, 3rd edition
5. Membership Essentials: Recruitment, Retention, Roles, Responsibilities, and Resource, 2nd edition
6. CAE Study Guide which includes a practice exam

Grants/Scholarships are available from the FSAE Foundation for FSAE members.

For more information contact Julia Rooney at (850) 222-7994 or [email protected].

Detailed Information on the CAE Application or renewal process, please contact ASAE's Credentialing Department at 202-626-2759 or online at www.WhatIsCAE.org.

Renewing Your CAE? 

CAEs must be renewed every three years. The deadline to renew without penalties or late fees is October 31.  The absolute renewal deadline is December 31. All requirements must be completed when submitting the renewal application. One of the 40 hours must be focused on ethics. Click here for an on-demand Ethics Program

Recertification Requirements & Application 
Renewal Application Now Online

Preparing for the CAE

Preparing for the CAE exam is crucial for your success. FSAE is partnering with the Michigan Society (MSAE) to offer multiple options for virtual prep courses and materials at the member rate. Contact FSAE staff for a 20% member discount code!

The study group meets weekly by conference call and all calls are recorded and accessible later if you miss it. The classes include several practice tests and full practice exam.

Spring 2025 Virtual Study Courses: 

  • Full 16-Week Course starts January 6
  • Concentrated 8-Week Course begins February 3
  • CRAM 1-Week Course begins April 4

Get more information and register online.
**You will need to create an account/profile. Contact FSAE staff for a 20% member discount code!

Upcoming Exams:

The CAE exam is offered in a two-week window in May and December. The test is administered at scheduled test sites throughout the U.S. and internationally at Scantron testing centers.

  • December 1-14, 2024
    Application deadline: Friday, September 27, 2024
  • May 1-14, 2025
    Application deadline: February 21, 2025

 More information on the exam and application