SHRM-SCP
Offered by SHRM
The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is SHRM's strategic-level HR credential. It is built on the same SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK) as the SHRM-CP, but the passing standard is set for HR leaders who design people strategy, influence the business, and operate at a policy level.
EXAM AT A GLANCE
Questions
134
110 scored
Testing time
40
minutes
Sections
2
Delivery
Prometric test center or online proctored
Passing score
200
Cost
$350 (member) / $450 (non-member) early-bird; $399 / $499 standard, USD
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What the exam covers
HR Knowledge Domains (People, Organization, Workplace)
Behavioral Competency Clusters (Leadership, Interpersonal, Business)
About the SHRM-SCP certification
Like the SHRM-CP, the exam mixes knowledge items with situational-judgment questions. SHRM reports pass rates for the SCP that are typically lower than the CP, reflecting the higher standard.
Who it’s for
Senior HR professionals who set strategy, lead HR functions, and partner with executives.
- Testing time
- 4 hours total (3 hours 40 minutes of testing time, two 110-minute sections)
- Passing score
- 200 on a 120–200 scaled scale (SHRM-SCP uses a higher competency standard than SHRM-CP)
- Validity
- 3 years; renew with 60 professional development credits or by retaking the exam
- Prerequisites
- None required; SHRM recommends it for experienced HR leaders doing strategic work
Official exam page· Details verified August 2026
Exam details can change. Always confirm current requirements, fees, and exam policies with the certification provider before registering.
How to prepare
01
Download the current SHRM BASK and focus on leadership and business competencies.
02
Practice situational-judgment items from a senior-leader point of view (policy, not task).
03
Study workforce planning, organizational design, and HR's role in strategy.
04
Use a SHRM Learning System or equivalent structured prep.
05
Apply during the correct testing-window application period.
FAQ
How is SHRM-SCP different from SHRM-CP?
Same exam format and BASK, different passing standard. SHRM-SCP is scored against the expected competency of HR professionals who do strategic work; SHRM-CP is scored against operational HR work.
Should I take SHRM-SCP or SPHR?
SHRM-SCP emphasizes behavioral competencies and situational judgment. HRCI's SPHR is more focused on U.S. employment law and strategic HR technical knowledge, and it requires documented professional HR experience.
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