As the digital world continues to evolve, accessibility has shifted from a luxury to an essential need. The International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) leads the way, offering globally recognized certifications for those committed to promoting inclusive design and digital accessibility. Whether you're a web developer, UX designer, content creator, or policy advocate, IAAP certifications offer a clear path to enhance your expertise and showcase your dedication to digital inclusion.
What is the IAAP?
Overview of the organization
The International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) is a non-profit organization and a division of G3ict (Global Initiative for Inclusive ICTs). Its headquarters are in Atlanta, Georgia. As a membership-based association, IAAP is committed to fostering a global community that upholds the digital rights of individuals with disabilities. Its mission reflects the values outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the UN’s eighth treaty focused on human rights, which emphasizes equal digital access and inclusive participation for people with disabilities.
Mission and goals
G3ict seeks to build a global community committed to protecting the digital rights of individuals with disabilities. In support of this goal, IAAP works to establish standards, raise awareness, and improve the accessibility of technologies, services, and environments. Through its efforts, IAAP plays a key role in advancing the digital rights of people with disabilities worldwide.
Overview of IAAP Certifications
IAAP offers a range of certifications tailored to professionals at different stages of their accessibility careers. These include:
- CPACC – Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies
- WAS – Web Accessibility Specialist
- CPWA – Certified Professional in Web Accessibility (a combination of CPACC and WAS)
- ADS – Accessible Document Specialist
Each certification is designed to address specific roles and skill sets, from foundational knowledge to advanced technical expertise.
Deep Dive into Each Certification
- CPACC (Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies)
- What it covers: The IAAP Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) serves as the foundational credential for professionals in the field of accessibility. It offers a competitive edge by equipping professionals with foundational knowledge on disability needs, international accessibility laws and standards, various models of disability, and assistive technology usage. You can review the exam structure, preparation materials, real-world testimonials, and application steps for more information.
- Ideal for: Project managers, product managers, department directors, executive leaders, and professionals in HR, marketing, business development, sales, diversity and inclusion (DEI), and legal compliance.
- Prerequisites: A minimum of 1 year of experience in accessibility, a new role with some accessibility duties, or a keen interest in shifting to a career in accessibility
- WAS (Web Accessibility Specialist)
- What it covers: The Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS) is a technical certification from IAAP that demonstrates an individual’s intermediate-level expertise in accessibility. Earning the WAS certification assures employers that the holder possesses both technical accessibility knowledge and the practical experience to apply it effectively. Explore the content outline, exam materials, success stories, and application process to learn more.
- Ideal for: Front-end web developers, software developers, software engineers, webmasters, and mobile app developers.
- Prerequisites: Applicants should have a minimum of three years of practical experience in the tasks listed in the WAS Content Outline, as well as expertise in at least 10 of the 13 specified areas listed in the Pre-requisites section on this page.
- CPWA (Certified Professional in Web Accessibility)
- What it covers: The CPWA certification is provided to those individuals who successfully cleared WAS and CPACC exams. As IAAP's highest credential, the CPWA consolidates the two previous certifications into a single, distinguished certification. The CPWA is granted by IAAP to acknowledge a high level of expertise and accomplishment in the field of accessibility.
- Ideal for: Senior technical professionals, user experience (UX) and graphic design specialists, product managers, and engineers.
- Prerequisites: Successful completion of both the CPACC and WAS exams is required to obtain the CPWA certification.
- ADS (Accessible Document Specialist)
- What it covers: The IAAP Accessible Document Specialist (ADS) credential is a highly relevant certification for professionals involved in creating accessible electronic documents. Highlight your proficiency and enhance your professional advantage, whether your background is in government, business, or education. Explore the content outline, exam materials, success stories, and application details to learn more.
- Ideal for: Content authors and contributors, technical writers, content management system (CMS) managers and authors, as well as professionals in marketing and human resources.
- Prerequisites: One to two years of experience in creating accessible documents, performing remediation, providing training, developing policies, or advocating for accessible document practices.
Preparing for the Exams
Preparation Material for Exam- CPACC (Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies)
- Resources
The Princeton CPACC Preparation Course is aligned with the latest CPACC Body of Knowledge, released in August 2024.
The CPACC Content Outline remains unchanged, and all CPACC preparation courses are designed to align with and teach to this outline
This self-paced course offers the flexibility to learn on your own schedule, at a pace that works best for you.
The course is hosted on the IAAP Open edX platform and is available free of charge to active IAAP members.
$195 USD for Non-Members.
$137 USD for Developing Economies discount.
- Online Resource Material
- Introduction to Accessibility (W3C).
- User Stories (W3C).
- Developing Web Accessibility.
- Resources
- WAS (Web Accessibility Specialist)
- Resources
- IAAP Approved Global Certification Preparation Providers
Funka Foundation’s Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS) Certification Training course
- Designing for Web Accessibility.
- ADS (Accessible Document Specialist)
- IAAP Approved Global Certification Preparation Providers
Here it is: Funka Foundation’s Accessible Document Specialist (ADS) Certification Training course
- IAAP Approved Global Certification Preparation Providers
Exam Process and Costs
| Certification | Exam Process | Duration | Member Cost | Non-Member Cost | E&DE Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPACC | 100 MCQs, Computer/Web, Closed Book | 2 hours | $410 | $510 | $170 |
| WAS | 75 MCQs, Computer-Based, Closed Book | 2 hours | $455 | $555 | $225 |
| ADS | 75 MCQs, Computer-Based, Closed Book | 2 hours | $455 | $555 | $225 |
Exam retake fees
| Certification | Member Fee | Non-Member Fee | E&DE Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPACC | $255 | $315 | $100 |
| WAS | $270 | $330 | $110 |
| ADS | $270 | $330 | $110 |
Maintaining Certification
| Certification | Validity | Renewal Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| CPACC | 3 years | 45 CAECs |
| WAS | 3 years | 35 CAECs |
| CPWA | 3 years | 55 CAECs |
| ADS | 3 years | 35 CAECs |
Conclusion
Ready to elevate website accessibility standards? As an associate member of IAAP, our accessibility experts ensure every audit we deliver meets the highest industry benchmarks. Whether you need a comprehensive accessibility audit, remediation, support, ongoing compliance monitoring, website accessibility certification, our team is here to help you create an inclusive, accessible digital experience for every user.
Our All in One Accessibility partnership program empowers agencies and businesses to deliver inclusive digital experiences and meet global ADA standards, fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, promotes accessibility best practices, Accessibility Reseller Partners will receive up to 30% commission, along with exclusive discounts. Accessibility Assist PRO partnership program helps you to deliver higher-quality audits, improve compliance, and offer enhanced value to your clients.
Reach out [email protected] and discover how professional credentials make a measurable difference in your accessibility strategy.
