The Test Committee recently met and reviewed the passing score, as set in the previous format of domains, and considered the passing score for the exam. Based upon the Angoff Technique, widely used in many certification programs in North America, the Test Committee determined to set the passing score at 2% points higher than the 70% set more than 15 years ago. In addition to the Angoff technique, the Test Committee, made up of a diverse group of professionals from all segments of the arborist community, justified the slight incremental change in the passing score as consistent with the increase in training and educational materials now available as well the increased expectations of employers of Certified Arborists.

The change in exam format and the application of the new passing score will be July 1, 2009.You will be required to obtain a 72% overall score on the exam in order to have a passing score. If a passing score of 72% is not achieved you will have to retake the entire exam until a passing score is obtained to gain certification.

Unfortunately, when changes like this occur, there is always a group caught in transition. You must complete your exam under the existing requirements and you will have until September 30, 2009 to do so. The ISA Certification team understands your challenges and will work with you in every way possible to help you complete your domain retakes before that date.

ISA’s new credential, ISA Certified Tree Worker/ Aerial Lift Specialist, is now available. Several chapters have started offering the exam in their area and if you are interested please contact your local chapter. Chapters are in the process of training their proctors and your interest in this credential will be a driving force to increase availability.

The aerial lift exam is made up of two components, written knowledge and skill. If you have already obtained your Certified Tree Worker/ Climber Specialist credential you will only be required to take part in the skills component. The knowledge exam is based on 50 multiple choice questions, 5 of which are tree identification. The skills exam is made up of a truck inspection and set up, tree and site inspection, three work stations, and knot tying. If you are interested in preparation materials for the exam, ISA offers a Tree Climbers’ study guide and a skills test preparation DVD.

Based on your demand, ISA is currently offering four certification exams online in select areas. Certified Arborist, Municipal and Utility Specialist and Board Certified Master Arborist are available now. The knowledge portion for the Certified Tree Worker/Climber Specialist and Aerial Lift Specialist certifications will be offered in the upcoming months and we ask that you check back for availability. We understand how important certification is and would like to help eliminate your obstacles. Over the years we have heard of many challenges and it is our goal to make receiving your certification as convenient and easy as possible.

Are you frustrated with?

-Not finding a testing location that is convenient

-Not being able to attend the date the exam is scheduled

-Having to drive 100+ miles to take the test

-Requesting time off work to attend the test

-Paying to stay overnight to make an early exam

-Needing the certification for a contract and can’t afford to wait

-In a hurry to finish a retake exam

-Not testing well in a large crowd

If you have found yourself in one or all these situations, let us make your life a little easier.

-Sign up for the exam location that is convenient for you

-Take the exam on a day that works for you

-Sign up and check testing center availability in the upcoming week

-Receive your score report before you leave the exam site

-Over 200 locations in North America and Canada

-Almost 3,000 locations worldwide