Understanding Exam Testing Windows

Modified on Fri, 8 May at 12:06 PM

The Institutes offer exams in four quarterly testing windows each year. You can take your exam at any time during your registered window — no appointment needed.

Testing Window Dates

Window Dates
Q1 January 15 – March 15
Q2 April 15 – June 15
Q3 July 15 – September 15
Q4 October 15 – December 15

You can test day or night, up until 11:59 p.m. ET on the final day of the window. If the final day falls on a weekend, the window is extended to the next business day.

Important: The testing window you select when purchasing a course is only a planning estimate. It does not lock you in. You choose your actual exam window when you register for the exam — which is a separate purchase.

How It Works

  • You choose a testing window when you register and pay for your exam.
  • You can take the exam any time during that window — there’s no specific date or time slot to schedule.
  • You may register for up to 4 unique exams per testing window. Retakes don’t count toward this limit.

What If You’re Not Ready?

If your testing window is approaching and you’re not prepared:

  • Transfer to a later window before the current window closes. A transfer fee applies. See Understanding Exam Transfers & Study Materials.
  • Online transfers are available through your account.
  • Phone transfers are available until 6:00 p.m. ET on the last business day of the window.

Important: If you don’t test and don’t transfer before the window closes, your exam registration is forfeited. You’ll need to register and pay again for a future window.

Common Misunderstandings

  • “I’m locked into the window I picked at checkout.” No — the window selected during course purchase is a planning estimate only. Your exam window is chosen separately.
  • “I need to schedule a specific date and time.” No — you can test anytime during the window. Just log in and launch.
  • “I can transfer after the window closes.” No — transfers must be completed before the window ends.

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