Overview of the CSA Certification Program and Exam

The Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® certification program is designed to recognize professionals who work often or almost exclusively with seniors by evaluating their ability to:

• Identify seniors’ needs and issues accurately
• Understand how seniors’ values and motivations affect their choices
• Communicate and respond appropriately, effectively, and compassionately to seniors
• Function as a resource for seniors to turn to for help with their concerns and problems

The CSA certification program and exam are based on rigorous psychometric standards.

The CSA credential will only be awarded to individuals who meet all eligibility requirements including successfully completing the CSA exam. Certification is awarded for a period of one year. Renewal is required annually with recertification required every three years.

What is the difference between a certification program and a certificate program?

The CSA designation program is a certification program. People are eligible for the CSA exam based on requirements established by the independent SCSA Certification Council. These requirements include certain levels of education and/or experience related to the field of aging and working with seniors. In addition, professionals who hold the credential must adhere to a professional code of conduct, the CSA Code of Professional Responsibility, which is enforced by the independent Board of Standards, and the SCSA Membership Rules. Also, to recertify the credential, CSAs must fulfill continuing education requirements, also established by the Certification Council.

The CSA designation program is not a certificate program (where one completes a course, takes an exam, and is awarded a certificate of completion). Graduates of certificate programs do not hold a professional credential; do not become members of an organization; are not required by virtue of having the certificate to follow a professional code of conduct; and do not have to fulfill continuing education requirements related to the certificate.