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Certified Association Executive Program

The Certified Association Executive (CAE) program is designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and designate association professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of association management. Founded in 1960, the CAE program stands as a mark of excellence and has evolved to reflect what it takes to manage an association in today's challenging climate.

Earning and maintaining the CAE is a three-part process. Candidates must first meet eligibility requirements and submit an application. The next step is to sit for and pass the CAE exam. Once a candidate has earned the credential they must maintain it by fulfilling certification renewal requirements every three years.

CAE Program Granted NCCA Accreditation 

ASAE and the CAE Commission are pleased to announce that the Certified Association Executive (CAE) program has been granted accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).  The announcement of accreditation coincides with the 50^th anniversary of the CAE program.

NCCA accreditation provides independent validation that the CAE program meets or exceeds twenty-one standards concerning various aspects of the certification program including its purpose, structure, governance, psychometric foundation, policies and procedures.  Accreditation validates the integrity of the program, and is a mark of quality.  Earning accreditation is a public demonstration of ASAE and the CAE Commission’s commitment to the CAE credential as a true professional certification.