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What is the CAE?

The Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation is designed 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 has evolved to reflect what it takes to manage an association in today's challenging climate. The CAE program was accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies in 2010.

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The CAE program is geared towards association management practitioners, who have a vested interest in advancing their profession and the industry. Is CAE for me? | Read profiles of current CAEs

Earning the CAE credential is the hallmark of a committed association professional. It helps drive professional self-confidence, opens doors, creates connections, and offers widespread value and recognition for candidates. CAE program overview.

Earning and maintaining the CAE is a three-part process. Candidates must first meet eligibility requirements and submit an application. The next step is to sit for and pass the CAE exam. Once a candidate has earned the credential they must maintain it by fulfilling certification renewal requirements every three years.

To make it easier for candidates and certificants to find CAE credit-eligible education, the CAE program is instituting the Approved Provider Program beginning in January 2013.

When the new aspirational ASAE Standards of Conduct were adopted, the CAE Commission determined that a more objective basis was needed for CAE disciplinary policy.  The CAE Code of Professional Conduct was approved by the CAE Commission in February and will take effect March 1, 2013. The Code is a list of enforceable behaviors that is incorporated into Policy #15 of the CAE policies and procedures.