You just placed an order on TheInstitutes.org and want to know what comes next. Here’s the typical flow.
Important: Course materials and exam registrations are separate purchases. If you ordered course materials, you are not also registered for the exam — you’ll need to register separately when you’re ready. See How to Register for an Exam.
Right After Checkout
- An order confirmation email with your receipt is sent to the email on your account. Save it for reimbursement or expense reports.
- Your digital course materials typically appear in My Courses & Exams shortly after a self-service order. Log in at TheInstitutes.org → My Courses & Exams to launch them.
- If you ordered through a scholarship, corporate billing account, sponsorship letter, or employer portal, processing takes longer — usually several business days. You’ll get a separate confirmation when access is ready.
If You Ordered a Printed Book
- Printed books ship via UPS within 5–7 business days for domestic orders. International shipping takes longer and may incur customs fees.
- UPS cannot deliver to PO Box addresses — make sure your shipping address is a street address.
- Tracking is sent to your email when the package ships.
Course Access Duration
- Online course materials are valid for one year from the date of purchase.
- Exam registrations are valid for the specific testing window you registered into.
- See Course Access, Expiration & Extensions for what happens as you approach expiration.
Mobile App
- The Course Companion practice-quiz app is included with most designation courses, but the course usually has to be provisioned by Customer Success before it appears in the app — syncing alone often won’t surface it. See The Institutes Mobile App.
When to Register for Your Exam
- Course materials and exam registration are separate steps. Most students study first, then register for an exam in an upcoming testing window when they feel ready.
- Testing windows run year-round; see Understanding Exam Testing Windows.
Common Misunderstandings
Important: Forwarding your receipt email to Customer Success is not a way to register for an exam, request CE credit, or update an order. Use the appropriate self-service flow on TheInstitutes.org — or contact us with a specific request and your order number.
Important: Receipt emails are automatic. If you received one, your order did go through. There’s no need to confirm with Customer Success unless you see an actual error on your account or a duplicate charge.
If Something Looks Wrong
- Charged but no course access after a few hours: check My Courses & Exams while logged in. If it’s still missing, contact Customer Success with your order number.
- Pending or duplicate charges on your card: see Pending Credit Card Charges Explained.
- Ordered the wrong course: see Course Material Returns and Refunds — there’s a 30-day return window for unused materials.
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