Explore how to begin the certification process.
Certification Process
The next few pages guide you through the steps to apply for your Business Certification Program credential (BCP). We look forward to supporting you through this process. Let’s begin!
Step 1: Identify the level for which you are applying–– Professional, Senior, or Executive. Ensure you are eligible (check the requirements) and develop a plan for your professional growth journey.
Step 2: Create a place, electronically or physically, to collect all of your documentation.
Step 3: Download the appropriate BCP application PDF here:
Step 4: Keep your application updated with pertinent information and accomplishments.
Step 5: When you have fulfilled all the requirements, send the completed application with the appropriate application fee by mail to:
BCP Registrar
2207 Concord Pike, #417
Wilmington, DE 19803
or email your supporting documentation to BCPregistrar@isminc.com.
Step 7: Look forward to confirmation of your certification communication or to set up and carry out the interview. The Registrar will be in contact if there are any issues with your application. This step may take 8–12 weeks.
Please keep a copy of all submitted materials. Submissions will not be returned.
Fees for Certification and Renewals
ISM provides the Business Certification Program as part of its larger service to private-independent schools. The peer evaluation of portfolios is a volunteer activity carried out by business professionals in the field. They are not compensated for this work.
As such, there is only an administrative charge to cover administrative costs. Payment can be made either by the individual or by the school on behalf of the individual. At the Professional level, ISM offers the certification at no cost.
| Certification level | Application fee | Renewal fee |
|---|---|---|
| Professional | No fee | $250* |
| Senior | $300 | $300 |
| Executive | $425 | $425 |
Note: Application and payment of fee is not a guarantee of certification. If ISM, at its sole discretion, does not provide certification to an individual, there will be no refund of fees. A new application will require fee payment again.
Given the emphasis on continuous professional development and to ensure that business and operations needs are met in a changing environment, ISM certification requires that professionals demonstrate that they are staying in touch with developments in the field on a regular basis. Accordingly, certification is valid for a fixed period (five years) before requiring renewal.
Renewing your certificate at the current level assures both you and your school that you are connecting meaningfully with your peers, continuing to upgrade your skills and knowledge, and demonstrating competence at your school.
Renewal is a re-affirmation of the Guiding Principles, demonstration of your ongoing commitment to growth and renewal with an individual interview with one of our workshop mentors, and attendance at the Business year of renewal.
Note: The Professional level is only renewable for those who do not report to the School Head. Any business and operations professional reporting directly to the School Head must advance to the Senior level after five years. Once at the Senior level, the professional may renew or advance the credential at their choosing.
Resources
Below you will find materials needed to help you in your certification process.
The handbook serves as a guide through the certification process. It contains an overview of the process expands on the Guiding Principles that govern the actions, beliefs, and the core values of Business and Operations Professionals.
Learn More
To learn more about how our Certification Services can serve your school, email our BCP Manager or call 302-656-4944.