If you are ready to pursue the Certified Cost Professional (CCP®) credential, understanding the CCP® certification cost and registration process is essential before applying.
The CCP® certification is administered by AACE International and follows a structured application and approval process.
This guide explains:
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CCP® certification cost components
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Application steps
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Registration period
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Retake policy
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What happens after approval
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Common registration mistakes
What Is the CCP® Certification Cost?
The total CCP® certification cost typically includes:
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Application review fee
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Examination fee
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Retake fee (if applicable)
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Optional training investment
Exam fees vary depending on membership status and may change periodically. Always verify current fee details directly through AACE before applying.
Important:
AACE does not require candidates to purchase training materials or enroll in a course to qualify for the exam.
CCP® Application Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet one of the eligibility pathways:
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8 years of industry-related experience
OR -
4 years of experience plus a 4-year industry-related degree
Eligibility must be verified during application.
Step 2: Create an AACE Profile
You must create an account on AACE’s certification portal to begin the application process.
Step 3: Submit Documentation
You will need to upload:
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Work experience verification
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Employer confirmation
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Education documents (if claiming degree substitution)
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Agreement to AACE’s Canons of Ethics
Incomplete documentation is one of the most common causes of delay.
Step 4: Application Review
AACE reviews submitted documentation to confirm eligibility.
Processing timelines may vary depending on volume and document completeness.
Only after approval can you proceed to exam scheduling.
CCP® Registration Period
Once your application is approved:
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You receive clearance to sit for the exam
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Your registration period becomes valid for 6 months
During this period:
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You may attempt the exam up to 3 times
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Two retakes are permitted within the 6-month window
If the registration period expires, a new application is required.
Planning exam timing carefully helps avoid unnecessary delays.
CCP® Exam Scheduling
After clearance:
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You schedule your exam through the designated testing system
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You select available test center or online proctored options
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You confirm exam date within your registration window
Scheduling early ensures availability.
CCP® Retake Policy Explained
If you do not pass on your first attempt:
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You may retake the exam within your 6-month registration period
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A retake fee applies
After three attempts or expiration of registration:
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You must reapply
This policy encourages structured preparation before attempting the exam.
Common CCP® Registration Mistakes
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Submitting incomplete employer verification
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Miscalculating industry-related experience
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Waiting too long to schedule within the 6-month window
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Attempting the exam without full preparation
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Ignoring memo practice before exam day
Preparation should ideally begin before submitting your application.
Is CCP® Membership Required?
No.
Membership with AACE is not mandatory to apply for CCP® certification.
However, membership may offer benefits such as access to professional resources.
How Long Does the CCP® Certification Process Take?
Typical timeline:
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Documentation preparation: 1–2 weeks
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Application review: Varies
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Registration window: 6 months
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Exam result cycle: Based on grading schedule
From application to final result, the process may take several months depending on preparation readiness.
Should You Apply Before Studying?
Strategically:
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Apply once you confirm eligibility
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Begin structured study immediately after clearance
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Schedule exam when consistently scoring well on mock tests
Applying too early without preparation may create unnecessary pressure.
Structured Preparation After Registration
Once registered, candidates should follow a domain-weighted study plan aligned with:
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119 question structure
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Memo writing component
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70% overall passing requirement
3FOLD Training provides structured online CCP® preparation designed specifically for professionals who have completed registration and want organized guidance aligned with AACE standards.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the CCP® certification cost and registration process helps avoid delays, mistakes, and unnecessary retakes.
By confirming eligibility, preparing documentation carefully, and planning your study strategy before scheduling the exam, you position yourself for a smoother certification journey.
The CCP® credential is a structured professional process, not just an exam. Proper planning ensures successful progression from application to certification.
