Congratulations! You've made the important decision to pursue a SHRM certification. First, you must decide whether to apply for the SHRM-CP or the SHRM-SCP exam; check the eligibility criteria at https://www.shrm.org/certification/apply/eligibility-criteria/Pages/which-exam-to-take.aspx Note: Effective January 1, 2022, everyone who does not perform executive-level or strategic level must take the SHRM-CP.
The SHRM-CP credential is designed for HR professionals who are engaged primarily in operational roles—implementing policies, serving as the HR point of contact for staff and stakeholders, and/or performing day-to-day HR functions. If this is your focus, the SHRM-CP is likely your best option.
The SHRM-SCP certification is designed for HR professionals at a senior level who operate primarily in a strategic role—developing policies and strategies, overseeing the execution of HR operations, analyzing performance metrics, and/or contributing to the alignment of HR strategies to organizational goals. The SHRM Foundation offers grants for those pursuing either Certification. Read more at https://www.shrm.org/foundation/ourwork/scholarships/pages/all-deadlines.aspx