Are you ready to take your HR career to the next level? A SHRM prep course might be just what you need! Whether you’re just starting in HR or looking to advance your career, SHRM certification can open doors to better opportunities and higher pay. But let’s be honest – these exams aren’t easy.
That’s where a quality SHRM prep course comes in handy! To help you effectively prepare for your SHRM certification exams, Prepsaret offers comprehensive study materials, including detailed study guides, practice exams, and quizzes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about SHRM prep courses – from understanding what SHRM certification is, to choosing the best study options for your learning style and budget.
What Is SHRM Certification?
SHRM certification is one of the most respected credentials in the human resources field. It shows employers that you have the knowledge and skills needed to excel in HR roles. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers two main certifications:
- SHRM-CP (Certified Professional): Designed for HR professionals who implement policies, deliver HR services, and perform operational HR functions.
- SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional): Geared toward senior-level practitioners who develop strategies, lead HR functions, analyze performance metrics, and align HR strategies with organizational goals.
These certifications are globally recognized and can boost your career prospects significantly. They validate your HR expertise and your ability to apply that knowledge in real-world situations.
SHRM-CP vs. SHRM-SCP Differences
Deciding between SHRM-SCP and SHRM-CP for the right HR certification is crucial when deciding which certification to pursue. The main distinctions include:
- Experience requirements: SHRM-SCP typically requires more years of HR experience than SHRM-CP
- Focus areas: SHRM-CP emphasizes operational aspects and implementation, while SHRM-SCP concentrates on strategy development and alignment with business objectives
- Career stage: SHRM-CP is generally suitable for early to mid-career professionals, whereas SHRM-SCP targets senior HR leaders
- Exam difficulty: The SHRM-SCP exam is generally considered more challenging, with more complex scenarios and strategic questions
Your current role, experience level, and career aspirations should guide your choice between these certifications. Many professionals start with SHRM-CP and later progress to SHRM-SCP as their careers advance.
Why Choose a SHRM Prep Course?
There’s a reason why so many successful SHRM-certified professionals recommend taking a structured prep course. The SHRM certification exams are rigorous and comprehensive, covering a wide range of HR knowledge and competencies.
A good SHRM exam prep program organizes this content in a way that makes it easier to understand and remember. Plus, the SHRM passing score requirements are quite rigorous – you really need to know your stuff!
Benefits of SHRM Exam Prep
Taking a SHRM exam prep course offers numerous advantages::
- Structured Learning: Courses break down the massive SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRMBASK) into manageable chunks.
- Expert Guidance: Learn from instructors who know the exam inside and out.
- Practice Tests: Regular SHRM practice questions help you identify weak areas before the real exam.
- Study Community: Many courses offer forums or study groups where you can connect with other test-takers.
- Time-Saving: Why reinvent the wheel when experts have already created the perfect study plan?
Studies show that candidates who take a prep course have significantly higher pass rates than those who self-study. When your career advancement is on the line, why take chances?
Types of SHRM Prep Courses Available
Not all SHRM prep courses are created equal! Depending on your learning style, schedule, and budget, you’ll want to choose the format that works best for you. Let’s explore your options:
In-Person SHRM Prep Course
If you learn best in a classroom setting, an in-person SHRM prep course might be ideal for you. These courses offer:
- Face-to-face interaction with experienced instructors
- Networking opportunities with fellow HR professionals
- Structured class schedules to keep you accountable
- Immediate feedback on questions and concerns
To find a SHRM prep course near me, check with local colleges, HR associations, or SHRM chapters. Many offer weekend or evening classes to accommodate working professionals.
Online SHRM Prep Course
For busy professionals who need flexibility, an online SHRM prep course offers tremendous advantages:
- Study anytime, anywhere at your own pace
- Access to materials 24/7
- Often more affordable than in-person options
- Variety of learning formats (videos, reading materials, interactive quizzes)
Many providers offer a SHRM prep course online that includes all the materials you need to succeed. Some even have mobile apps so you can study during your commute or lunch break!
Free SHRM Prep Course
On a tight budget? You might be able to find a SHRM prep course online free or at minimal cost. While these won’t be as comprehensive as paid options, they can supplement your study plan:
- SHRM chapter study groups
- Free sample questions and practice tests
- YouTube tutorials and HR podcasts
- Online forums and study communities
Just remember that while a free SHRM exam study materials can help, they typically don’t provide the depth and structure of paid courses.
Best SHRM Prep Course Options
After reviewing dozens of programs, here are some consistently top-rated SHRM certification prep course providers:
- Official SHRM Learning System (self-study or instructor-led)
- HRCI-approved university programs
- Prepsaret’s comprehensive SHRM test prep programs
- SHRM-CP test prep
- SHRM-SCP test prep
- BenchPrep SHRM courses
- SHRM study course options from HR training specialists
The best online SHRM prep course will depend on your specific needs, but these providers consistently receive positive reviews from successful exam takers.
Choosing the Best SHRM Prep Course
With so many options available, how do you pick the right SHRM prep course for you? Here are the key factors to consider:
Best Online SHRM Prep Course for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP
When evaluating the best SHRM prep course for either certification, look for:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Does it address all SHRM exam domains?
- Exam-Focused: Is the material aligned with the actual test format?
- Updated Content: Has it been revised for the latest exam version?
- Learning Style Compatibility: Does it match how you learn best?
- Success Rate: What percentage of students pass their exams?
The best online SHRM prep course for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP will offer specific materials tailored to each exam’s unique content and difficulty level.
Related post: Best SHRM Prep Courses & Training Programs
SHRM Test Prep with Live Classes
SHRM test prep programs with live class components offer the best of both worlds—flexibility of online learning with the engagement of real-time instruction. Many candidates benefit enormously from live instruction. SHRM exam prep course with live classes offers:
- Real-time Q&A with instructors
- Interactive learning experiences
- Scheduled sessions to maintain momentum
- Opportunities to learn from other students’ questions
Whether virtual or in-person, live classes add a valuable dimension to your preparation that self-study materials can’t match.
Affordable SHRM Certification Prep Courses
Finding affordable SHRM certification prep courses doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Many online courses offer payment plans or discounts, making it easier to access top-notch content without breaking the bank.
There are affordable SHRM certification prep courses that don’t compromise on quality:
- Look for early bird discounts or group rates
- Consider payment plans offered by many providers
- Check if your employer will sponsor your certification
- Compare self-paced vs. instructor-led options (self-paced is usually cheaper)
Remember that this is an investment in your career – one that typically pays for itself many times over through increased earning potential! The SHRM prep course cost can range from $695 to $1,595, depending on the provider, format, and included materials.
SHRM Prep Course with Practice Tests
One of the key components of a SHRM exam prep course is the quality of the study materials and practice tests. Be sure to select a course that offers SHRM study materials that are up-to-date and reflective of the real exam. SHRM prep course with SHRM practice tests helps you:
- Get comfortable with the exam format
- Identify knowledge gaps
- Practice time management
- Reduce test anxiety
- Build confidence before exam day
Studies show that practice testing is one of the most effective study techniques, so prioritize programs that include plenty of SHRM practice questions.
Prepsaret: Your Ultimate SHRM Prep Course Solution
Among the many providers available, Prepsaret stands out for its comprehensive approach to SHRM certification exam preparation. Let’s take a closer look at what makes their programs special.
Why Choose Prepsaret for SHRM Prep?
Prepsaret has built a reputation for excellence in HR certification preparation. Their SHRM programs offer:
- Experienced instructors with HR leadership backgrounds
- Regularly updated materials reflecting the latest exam content
- Flexible learning formats to fit any schedule
- Outstanding pass rates among graduates
- Exceptional customer support throughout your study journey
SHRM CP & SCP Prep Courses by Prepsaret
Prepsaret offers tailored programs for both certification levels:
- SHRM CP prep course: Focuses on operational HR knowledge, people management skills, and implementation strategies.
- SHRM SCP prep course: Emphasizes strategic thinking, business alignment, and HR leadership concepts.
Both programs align perfectly with SHRM’s Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK), ensuring you’re studying exactly what you need to know.
Practice Tests & Study Materials
Prepsaret’s SHRM study materials are comprehensive and engaging:
- Thousands of practice questions mirroring the actual exam style
- Full-length practice exams with detailed explanations
- Flashcards for key concepts and definitions
- Case studies that build critical thinking skills
- SHRM exam study guide materials organized by knowledge domain
Their practice tests are particularly valuable, featuring the same format and difficulty level as the real exam.
Flexible Learning Options
With Prepsaret, you can choose how you want to learn:
- Self-paced online courses
- Virtual live classes
- In-person bootcamps
- Hybrid options combining multiple formats
This flexibility makes it easy to find a learning approach that fits your lifestyle, schedule, and learning preferences.
How to Pass the SHRM Certification Exam
Beyond choosing the right prep course, what else can you do to maximize your chances of success? Here are some tips to help you pass your SHRM certification exam:
How to Study for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP
The most successful candidates typically:
- Create a detailed study schedule (and stick to it!)
- Study in short, focused sessions rather than marathon crams
- Use active learning techniques (teaching concepts to others, creating summaries)
- Join or form a study group for motivation and knowledge sharing
- Take regular breaks and practice self-care during prep
Remember that consistency beats intensity when it comes to exam preparation. Studying a little bit every day is far more effective than cramming the week before the test!
Using SHRM Practice Questions
Practice makes perfect! Use SHRM practice questions to test your knowledge and familiarize yourself with the exam format. These questions can help you feel more confident when exam day arrives. Practice questions aren’t just for assessment—they’re powerful learning tools:
- Review every question you get wrong and understand why
- Use practice questions to identify weak areas that need more focus
- Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions
- Track your progress over time to build confidence
The SHRM exam passing score is determined using a scaled scoring method rather than a simple percentage. Generally, you need to correctly answer about 65-70% of questions, though this can vary slightly by exam administration. The more questions you practice, the more comfortable you’ll feel with the exam format and question styles.
SHRM Study Materials
Make sure you’re using up-to-date SHRM study materials. The official SHRM Learning System is one of the best resources for this, but third-party study guides can also offer additional insights and practice. A combination of official and supplementary SHRM study course materials typically yields the best results:
- SHRM Learning System: The official resource containing comprehensive content
- SHRM exam study guide: Structured outlines of key concepts
- Flashcards for terminology and definitions
- Practice tests from multiple sources for varied exposure
- HR periodicals to stay current on industry trends
- Video tutorials for visual learners
Understanding how to pass the SHRM certification exam requires both knowledge acquisition and strategic test-taking skills. The best preparation combines theoretical knowledge with practical application examples.
Read more: Tips to Pass the SHRM Exam on Your First Attempt
SHRM Prep Course Costs and Financial Considerations
When budgeting for your SHRM prep, be sure to factor in the cost of the course, study materials, and any additional fees for practice tests or live classes.Here is the SHRM prep course cost breakdown.
SHRM Prep Course Cost
SHRM prep course cost varies widely depending on the provider and format:
- Self-study materials: $50-$1,000
- Online courses: $50-$1,500
- Practice exams: $50-$1,500
- In-person courses: $1,000-$2,500
- University-based programs: $1,500-$3,000
The official SHRM Learning System alone costs around $725 for members and $950 for non-members. However, many employers are willing to cover these costs as part of professional development.
Free vs Paid SHRM Prep Courses
While free SHRM exam study materials can help supplement your preparation, they typically don’t provide the structure and comprehensive coverage of paid options. Paid courses typically offer:
- More comprehensive and structured content
- Better quality practice questions
- Expert instruction and support
- Higher pass rates
- Time-saving organization of materials
Consider your budget carefully, but remember that failing and retaking the exam is more expensive than investing in proper preparation the first time!
Choosing between free vs paid SHRM prep courses depends on your budget and the level of personalized support and resources you need to succeed in the exam.
SHRM Exam Preparation: Key Resources
Beyond formal courses, there are several key resources you should know about:
SHRM Learning System
The official SHRM Learning System is the gold standard for exam preparation. It includes:
- Comprehensive reading materials covering all exam topics
- Interactive online study tools
- Mobile-friendly resources for on-the-go study
- Pre- and post-tests to measure progress
Many prep courses incorporate these materials, but you can also purchase them separately.
SHRM Study Course
A structured SHRM study course helps you navigate the vast amount of exam material in a logical sequence. Human resources certification prep courses offer comprehensive study materials and expert guidance to ensure you’re fully prepared for the SHRM certification exam. Look for programs that:
- Break content into manageable modules
- Provide clear learning objectives
- Include knowledge checks along the way
- Offer personalized feedback on progress
The structure alone can make a huge difference in your retention and understanding. Enrolling in HR certification training helps you build the essential skills and knowledge needed to advance your career in human resources.
SHRM Certification Exam Study Guide
A good SHRM exam study guide serves as your roadmap to certification:
- Outlines what to study and when
- Highlights high-yield topics
- Provides strategies for difficult concepts
- Includes time management tips for both studying and test-taking
Whether it’s part of your prep course or a separate purchase, a quality study guide is invaluable.
Free SHRM Exam Study Materials
Don’t overlook these valuable free resources:
- SHRM website sample questions
- HR blogs covering exam topics
- Professional forums like LinkedIn groups
- YouTube tutorials on specific HR concepts
While a free SHRM prep course online may not be comprehensive enough on its own, these resources can certainly enhance your preparation.
FAQs About SHRM Prep Courses
What Is the Best Prep for the SHRM Exam?
The best preparation combines official SHRM materials with a structured course matching your learning style. Look for programs with high pass rates, comprehensive content coverage, and plenty of practice questions mimicking the actual exam format.
Can You Self-Study for SHRM Certification?
Yes, self-study is possible with discipline and the right resources. However, most successful candidates find that structured courses provide valuable guidance, accountability, and expert insights that significantly increase their chances of passing on the first attempt.
How Much Does the SHRM Course Cost?
SHRM prep courses range from $50 to $3,000 depending on format, provider, and included materials. The investment typically pays off through increased earning potential, with certified HR professionals earning 5-25% more than their non-certified peers.
How Long Do I Need to Study for SHRM?
Most candidates need 60-120 hours of study time spread over 3-4 months. Your required time depends on your HR experience, educational background, and how efficiently you study. Creating a consistent schedule with 10-15 weekly study hours works best for most professionals.
Start Your SHRM Certification Journey Today!
Ready to take your HR career to new heights? Don’t put off your professional development any longer! SHRM certification can be the difference-maker in your next promotion or job search.
With the right SHRM prep course, passing the exam is absolutely within your reach. Prepsaret’s proven study methods, comprehensive materials, and expert guidance have helped thousands of HR professionals just like you achieve certification success.
Begin your preparation with Prepsaret’s practice tests today and take the first step toward joining the elite ranks of SHRM-certified HR professionals. Your future self will thank you!
