Frequently Asked Questions

Concerning QEP and EPI Certification

What are the benefits of the QEP certification?
The QEP certification confirms that you have demonstrated a broad understanding of the environment and environmental issues through successfully completing a rigorous application and examination process.

Earning a QEP certification signals a strong commitment to excellence in applied environmental science and adherence to a strict code of ethics.

The depth and breadth of knowledge confirmed by the distinction of being a QEP also increases your marketability.
Is there any way to network with other QEP's and EPI's?
Absolutely! QEP and EPI credential holders belong to a group of highly skilled environmental professionals. A roster of QEPs and EPIs, published annually by IPEP, increases the visibility of this elite group among peers and other professional contacts.

IPEP's Board and committee structure, comprised of QEPs and EPIs, works on issues related to maintaining high standards of practice in today's professional environmental arena.

IPEP also conducts an annual business meeting and regional meetings to provide additional forums for technical exchange and professional networking.
What does the QEP examination entail?
The exam is international in scope and contains no questions on legislation or regulations, but focuses on technical environmental science.

The oral exam is designed to be a 90-minute interview. During this time, the candidate will be given 20 minutes to present and discuss their abstract, which will have been submitted with the application. Oral Exam Format

The written exam is a two-part, six hour, multiple choice exam. All candidates take Part I, a General Environmental Science Exam. For Part II, each candidate must choose one of four Practice Areas in which to be examined further: Air Quality, Water Quality, Waste Management, or Environmental Science, Management & Policy. Written Exam Format
Who is eligible?
Both oral and written exam candidates are required to complete an IPEP application, which documents education and work history. A candidate's application must be approved by IPEP's Admissions Committee in order to be admitted into the examination process.

Minimum oral exam requirements are a baccalaureate degree and at least 15 years of subsequent professional environmental work experience acceptable to IPEP; demonstration of at least 10 qualifying years in a position of responsible charge; and at least one of the three required references being supplied by a QEP.

Minimum written exam requirements are either: 1) a baccalaureate or equivalent degree in physical, earth or natural sciences, engineering, or mathematics, and 5 subsequent years of professional environmental work experience, or 2) a baccalaureate degree in a discipline other than those listed above and 8 subsequent years of professional environmental work experience.
Is there an entry level program for graduates or those just entering the field?
Yes. The Environmental Professional Intern (EPI) certification is an entry level certification that targets those about to graduate, or professionals who have entered the field within the last five years. EPI candidates are required to pass the written General Environmental Science Exam (Part I). EPI's have the opportunity of being assigned a QEP as a mentor to assist in career guidance.
How long does the application process take ?
Once IPEP has received your completed application, application fee payment, and all three references, your application will be forwarded to the Admissions Committee of IPEP for review. That committee will make a recommendation, based on the information you furnish, as to whether you meet the minimum qualifications to be admitted to either the QEP or the EPI examination process.

From the date that your application is found to be complete it generally takes four to six weeks for the Admissions Committee to complete the review.
IPEP Applications
How do I receive my score ?
Your QEP/EPI exam results will usually be forwarded to you by first class mail within sixty days of the testing date. These results are, of course, confidential.
What do I have to do to maintain my certification?
To maintain your QEP certification, you must pay the annual renewal fees and apply for recertification once every five years. Recertification requires submittal of evidence of continuing professional development and participation in professional activities.
When and where are the exams given?
Exams are given throughout the world and are administered through a system of regional coordinators (RC) on an as needed basis. This allows busy professional to schedule an exam when it is convenient. The RC contact information is available once applicants are approved by the Admissions Committee for examination.
How do you prepare for the written exam and what does the exam cover?
IPEP publishes a free examination guide outlining the subject material to assist individuals preparing for the written exam.

Air & Waste management (A&WMA) offers an Environmental Practices Review (EPR) Course for written certification examination, such as the QEP. Course participants receive intensive instruction on general and disciplinary science in preparation for examination. A&WMA also offers EPR study guides for purchase. For more detailed information and course schedule, please visit the A&WMA web site at www.awma.org.
What if I do not get a passing score on the examination?
Approved applicants who pay the examination fee are granted two opportunities to sit for the QEP or EPI examination. The initial attempt must occur within one year following approval. If the QEP/EPI candidate does not receive a passing score on the first attempt, the candidate may retake the examination within an additional two years (a total of three years from the original approval date).

If a candidate does not receive a passing score on the second attempt, re-application, resubmission of the examination fee, and demonstration of additional competence is necessary to take the test again. QEP candidates retaking an examination are only required to retake the portion that did not receive a passing score.