Exam Locations

• The American Institute for Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriters strictly monitors the administration of its exams, which can only be given at authorized Prometric facilities, approved on-site locations and international pen-and-paper testing centers. All centers require presentation of identification with the same name used on the application before taking the exams.
  
  

Deadlines

• AICPCU offers its computer-administered tests during four quarterly exam windows, and registration closes on the 10th day of the month in which the test is scheduled. Paper exam dates and deadlines vary throughout the year.
  
  

Fees

• As of 2011, each CPCU exam costs from $215 to $230, in addition to a one-time matriculation fee of $75. The AICPCU accepts payment by American Express, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard or Visa, and honors checks and money orders sent through the mail. All fees are non-refundable.
  
  

Discounts

• The AICPCU offers a 50 percent discount on CPCU exam fees for state and federal employees of a regulatory agency as well as teachers and students in accredited colleges or universities.
  
  

Format

• The length of a test can vary but most take three hours. Each CPCU exam includes 30 to 35 short-answer essay questions designed to test ability to apply casualty-property insurance industry knowledge in a practical manner.
  
  

Grading

• Up to three members of the AICPCU independently grade each exam before combining the grades to reach a final score. All scores are final, with no appeals allowed. The AICPCU releases grades within one month of completing the exam, via email or sent through the U.S. Postal Service to the address provided when registering.
  
  

Benefits

• According to the AICPCU, 91 percent of those who pass see increased job opportunities, and 75 percent report a higher salary.