Knowledge Exam

Knowledge Exam

A core step in the emerit tourism professional certification process is a knowledge exam. Passing the knowledge exam is the main requirement for all available certifications.

This page contains information on everything you need to know about the knowledge exam. Review it carefully and call us at 1.800.486.9158 if you have specific questions or would like to schedule an exam.

What You Need to Know

Knowing occupational standards is the most important element in preparing for the knowledge exam. Candidates are tested on terms, principles, concepts, and procedures as defined in the National Occupational Standards. The focus is on testing the application of this knowledge, rather than simply knowing what is stated in the standards document.

Exam Format

  • Content for the exams is derived from the National Occupational Standards.
  • Exams may be written in either English or French (some exceptions apply). They may be written on-line, scheduled at your convenience or in a pencil-and-paper format at a scheduled writing session. 
  • All exams are proctored. This means that a designated invigilator or officer will be present while you write the exam.
  • Each test question will have four choices for you to select from.  Only one of the choices is the correct answer.
Example of a Question

Here is an example of an exam question:

What is the most effective way to plan a workday?

  1. Prioritize duties to meet goals.
  2. Build a schedule around personal strengths.
  3. Determine the schedule of co-workers.
  4. Make customer satisfaction a priority.

Option 1, Prioritize duties to meet goals, is the correct answer.

Passing Score

Each exam has a unique passing score.  Typically, the passing score will range between 70% and 85%. The results are calculated by a computer and kept confidential. You have the right to appeal results.

The Day of the Exam

The exam is supervised by a proctor. You will need to bring a piece of photo identification.

The exam will start strictly on time. Individuals that arrive late may be asked to reschedule. For paper-and-pencil exams you will be given an Examination Booklet. For on-line exams you will be provided with Internet access and personal login. If other support or reference materials are required, they will be provided to you.

You will be given ample time to write the exam. Most candidates will take 2 to 3 hours to write the exam.

Knowledge Exams for Various Certification Programs

Each certification program has its own examination. Candidates must achieve a particular passing score as dictated by the examination form. There are various training options available to help you pass the exam.

How to Prepare

The best way to prepare for the certification exam is to enroll in an emerit training program designed for your occupation. You can also prepare for the exam independently by studying relevant training materials.

Studying emerit's free National Occupational Standards is one of the most important ways to prepare for the exam, because all certification exams are based on these standards.

Over the years emerit training programs and training materials had consistently received and continue to receive excellent reviews from candidates of various occupations across the country. Take a look at what some of them are saying about emerit tourism training and certification.

Candidates are also welcome to “challenge the exam” by simply writing the exam without going through a training program.

On average, a person completes the certification process anywhere from six months to one year after registration, but there is no time limitation for you to complete your certification. You may take as long as you need to finish certification as long as you keep your local certifying organization aware of your continued dedication.

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Other Certification Requirements

For some certification programs candidates may be required to meet additional conditions in order to qualify. These conditions usually refer to practices concerning health or safety. For example, candidates may be required to show they have completed a program such as basic first aid, gun safety, handling food safely or responsible beverage service. Documentation that shows evidence of completion of these prerequisites needs to be supplied to your local certifying organization.

What’s Next

Having passed the knowledge exam, candidates can proceed to the next step in the certification process - performance evaluation and demonstration of workplace experience.

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