The Plan My Education page that can be found in the top navigation of this website is a resource for information about what educational programs and courses are suited for you, based on your experience level as well as your interest in risk management, underwriting, information technology, claims, customer service, or as an agent or broker. Knowing your goals and area of interest will determine the best designation and courses to take.

You can take designation courses in any order but we recommend starting with core courses to make sure you build a knowledge base before you move ahead. Most students also find that the recommended course order we suggest works well for them.

How long will it take me to complete a designation?

You can find the average time frame to complete a designation listed under Designation Requirements on each designation’s page. However, the average completion time typically ranges from a few months to a few years depending on the designation and your schedule.

For your best success, we recommend that you use The Institutes’ course materials. A recent analysis found that, on average, students who purchase our study materials score two to five percentage points better on their exams than those who purchased materials elsewhere. With a 70 percent score needed to pass and average test scores of 74 percent, those extra points can make the difference between passing and failing.

Institutes course materials are regularly updated to include the latest industry trends and technology in an effort to keep you on top of the most relevant skills and knowledge that you need for success.

When course updates occur, we allow our students two testing windows to take the exams on the expiring content. After that, exams are offered on new material only. Because new content affects exam questions, you put yourself at a disadvantage by using old materials. We encourage you to knock out your exam during the two testing windows before outdated material is replaced.

If you are having trouble using the site to order materials you will find an order form that can be used here: Order Form

Using questions from the SMART Online Practice Exam, the SMART QuizMe app lets you take your Institutes studies wherever you go. Purchase the app on the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Read this helpful article for more information on how to leverage your new designation as well as how to identify other Institutes courses that can help you keep your career moving forward. You may find that some of the courses you already completed count toward other programs, giving you a head start toward completing additional designations. Check your Progress Tracker to find out more.

WHEN CAN I START USING THE DESIGNATION AFTER MY NAME

It takes 48 hours for your designation to be reflected in your online account. Once it is reflected there, you may start using it.

DO DESIGNATIONS EVER EXPIRE?

No, designations do not expire. Once earned, you can use your credentials indefinitely.

Some designations do require yearly CE to maintain an active standing. An inactive status does not mean that your designation has expired but that you will not be publicly recognized by The Institutes as a designation holder. 

WHEN WILL MY DIPLOMA COME IN THE MAIL?

You’ll receive your diploma approximately six to eight weeks after passing your final exam.

CAN I ORDER A FRAME FOR MY DIPLOMA? 

Yes. The Institutes are offer customized certificate and diploma frames from Frames4Diplomas.com. For more information on frames, click here. 

CAN I REQUEST A TRANSCRIPT FOR COURSES AND PROGRAMS I HAVE COMPLETED?

You can fill out the Transcript Request Form and send it to The Institutes to receive an official transcript.

Leveraging Your New Skills