The number of courses depends on your designation program. Here’s a quick reference, plus how to check your remaining requirements.
Course Counts by Designation
| Designation | Courses Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CPCU | 8 courses + ethics + matriculation | 5 core + 2 concentration + 1 elective |
| AINS | 3 courses + ethics | |
| AIC | 4 courses + ethics | Includes elective(s) |
| ARM | 3 courses + ethics | |
| AU | 3 courses + ethics |
Each designation also requires a free online ethics course (Ethics 311 or 312) that can be completed at any time during your program.
Important: There is no deadline to complete your designation. You can purchase courses and take exams at your own pace — there are no cohorts, locked-in schedules, or required start dates. The testing windows you see are exam registration periods, not program deadlines.
How to Check Your Remaining Requirements
- Log in to your account at TheInstitutes.org.
- Go to My Account > Progress Tracker.
- Review your completed courses, remaining requirements, and any cross-credits that have been applied.
Your Progress Tracker reflects your specific situation, including any cross-credits from other designations.
Understanding Electives and Concentrations
- Electives are part of your total requirement — not optional extras. You must complete them to earn the designation.
- CPCU concentrations: Choose either Commercial or Personal lines (you don’t need both).
- Visit your designation page on TheInstitutes.org and select Show More Details to see all course options.
Important: Course materials and exams are separate purchases. The number of courses you need to complete is also the number of exams you’ll need to pass — but you buy each one independently.
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