Following currently accepted practices for certifying bodies, the CAE Commission is not involved in CAE candidate preparation, believing it to be a conflict of interest to develop materials to assist candidates in preparing for an exam designed and administered by the commission.…
The CAE examination is offered twice annually, in a two-week window in May and December. See the exam schedule for upcoming exams and deadlines
The application fee is $500 for ASAE members and $750 for nonmembers. The fee must be submitted with the application. If you do not sit for the exam within the next two test dates after your application has been accepted, your application will…
Association professionals who meet certain employment experience criteria, as well as qualifying independent contractors, consultants, and industry partners, may pursue the CAE. Learn more about eligibility requirements.
The CAE program is governed by the CAE Commission, an independent certifying body of ASAE. The commission awards the Certified Association Executive credential and is responsible for setting standing rules and policies related to the CAE program.
The CAE program was granted accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) in 2010. The announcement of accreditation coincided with the 50th anniversary of the CAE program. The CAE Program was reaccredited in 2020. NCCA accreditation provides independent…
As of April 27, 2025, there are 4,474 CAEs. To view a full list of association professionals who currently hold the credential, visit the CAE Roster page.
Becoming a Certified Association Executive shows your commitment to the association profession. As a CAE, you commit yourself to lifelong learning and an ongoing pursuit of knowledge in the profession. Among association leaders, the CAE designation has become known and…
ASAE founded the CAE program in 1960. The program was designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and designate those who demonstrate knowledge essential to the practice of association management.
