FAQ: Certified Member Program
What are the requirements and procedures for joining the Certified Member Program?
The requirements are as follows:
(1) Membership in AAAE
(2) Payment of AAAE membership dues and the C.M. program enrollment fee
Can Academic Members join the Certified Member Program?
Academic members may upgrade their membership to the Academic Graduate level in order to join the C.M. program. *Academic and Academic Graduate Membership is available only to full-time students enrolled in an undergraduate program of study.*
If you are already an Academic Member, your current dues will be applied toward the new Academic Graduate category. Refer to the examples below for fee information.
Current student members would be required to pay the following fees:
Upgrade to Academic Graduate Membership $110 ($150 Academic Graduate membership minus current academic member dues of $40)
Certified Member Program Fee: $200.00
Total fees due: $310.00
New student members would be required to pay the following fees:
Academic Graduate Membership: $150.00
Certified Member Program Fee: $200.00
Total fees due: $350.00
Although "Academic Graduates" are allowed to join the program, they will not receive, nor be recognized by AAAE as a C.M. until they have successfully passed the AAAE multiple-choice examination, and shown proof of graduation from a four-year institution of higher learning.
When will I be notified about the results of my application?
If your application is approved, you will receive an official acceptance letter and information on accessing the electronic study materials in 3 to 5 business days. If for some reason your application cannot be accepted, we will notify you of the reasons by e-mail.
Do I have to work for an airport to join the program?
No, the Certified Member program is open to all current members of AAAE. However, Academic members must upgrade to Academic Graduate status before entering the Program. Academic members may apply for Academic Graduate membership before they graduate; however, they will not receive the C.M. designation until after they have (1) successfully completed the multiple-choice exam and (2) graduated from a four-year institution of higher learning.
How much does the program cost?
Anyone wishing to join the Certified Member program must be an active member of AAAE and pay a one-time fee of $200.00. This fee includes registration, access to electronic study materials, and a one-time examination fee. Candidates who need to retake the exam will be assessed an additional $75 for each retake. Hard copies of the Body of Knowledge modules may be purchased here for $25.
Afterwards, if I want to join the Accreditation Program, is the test transferable?
Yes. Provided that you meet all the criteria for enrollment in the accreditation program, you may transfer your successful completion of the AAAE multiple-choice examination. The tests are identical in both programs. Please visit the Accreditation Program pages for detailed requirements.
Will I be able to use the designation "C.M." after my name after I successfully complete the exam?
You may use the "C.M." designation provided that your membership in AAAE is current, and if AAAE headquarters has a record of your successful completion of the multiple-choice examination. Academic Graduate members must show proof of graduation from a four-year college before utilizing the C.M. designation. If you choose to enroll in the accreditation program later, this designation will be replaced by the A.A.E. designation upon your successful completion of the accreditation process.
Are there any time limits to complete the exam after I register for the program?
No, there are no time limits.
What benefits will I receive as an AAAE Certified Member?
In addition to learning more about the aviation industry and enhancing your career and professional opportunities with a highly respected credential, you will receive from AAAE a Certified Member certificate and lapel pin. You will also receive visibility and recognition as the C.M. designation will appear behind your name in all AAAE correspondence, including meeting rosters and our membership directory.
