SHRM-SCP

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...

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SHRM-SCP exam at a glance

Format

134 questions (110 scored + 24 unscored field-test): 80 knowledge items + 54 situational-judgment items

Duration

4 hours total (3 hours 40 minutes of testing time, two 110-minute sections)

Delivery

Prometric test center or online proctored

Passing score

200 on a 120–200 scaled scale (SHRM-SCP uses a higher competency standard than SHRM-CP)

Exam cost

$350 (member) / $450 (non-member) early-bird; $399 / $499 standard, USD

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

About the SHRM-SCP certification

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.

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.

Official exam page· Details verified 2026-08

What the SHRM-SCP exam covers
  • HR Knowledge Domains (People, Organization, Workplace)
  • Behavioral Competency Clusters (Leadership, Interpersonal, Business)
How to study for the SHRM-SCP
  1. 1Download the current SHRM BASK and focus on leadership and business competencies.
  2. 2Practice situational-judgment items from a senior-leader point of view (policy, not task).
  3. 3Study workforce planning, organizational design, and HR's role in strategy.
  4. 4Use a SHRM Learning System or equivalent structured prep.
  5. 5Apply during the correct testing-window application period.
SHRM-SCP — frequently asked questions

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.