Qualifications and Credentials 

Certified Research Administrator (CRA^®) 

Certified Pre-Award Research Administrator (CPRA^®)

Certified Financial Research Administrator (CFRA) 

The eligibility requirements for taking any of the three exams are: 

1. Bachelor’s degree (or advanced degree) and three years of professional experience in research administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization;

OR

2. Associate’s degree and five years of professional experience in research administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-fund organization;

OR

3. High school diploma or GED and six years of professional experience in research administration either in a sponsoring or recipient organization or the equivalent in a self-funded organization.

Please note: If you do not have the required experience for your level of education, you may petition for a waiver to take the exam. To do so, please submit an application stating your experience in the field of research and sponsored programs administration, along with two letters of reference from colleagues affirming you have years and breadth of experience needed to understand the Body of Knowledge. Petition applications must be received at least five business days prior to the exam application deadline.

CLICK HERE TO PETITION FOR an EXAMINATION