Demystifying the Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE)

The Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) is an industry-recognized certification for administrative professionals looking to validate and demonstrate their skills. In recent years, PACE has quickly become one of the most valued and sought-after credentials in the admin field.

But what exactly is PACE and why has it become so important for ambitious assistants and administrative staff? This in-depth guide will explain everything you need to know about PACE certification,

What is PACE Certification?

PACE certification is an accredited certification program designed specifically for administrative professionals. It covers a comprehensive set of must-have skills and knowledge areas for succeeding in a support role.

The PACE program is owned and administered by the American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP). ASAP is the leading professional association serving the admin community

The PACE certification confirms that individuals have mastered core competencies in:

• Communication – Business writing, presenting, relationship management
• Project management – Planning, organizing, managing workflows
• Technology – Software, hardware, information security
• Leadership – Problem-solving, decision making, coaching others

By passing the PACE exam, administrative professionals demonstrate they have the experience and abilities to handle a wide range of administrative duties at a high level.

Why Get PACE Certified?

So why get PACE certified in the first place? What are the key benefits of earning this credential?

1. Validate Your Skills

First and foremost, PACE provides objective proof that you possess the knowledge and skills expected of an administrative professional.

Rather than just listing skills on your resume, PACE shows you have mastered them according to industry standards. The certification demonstrates competence to employers.

2. Increase Your Credibility

The PACE certification enhances your professional credibility and gives you a leg up in the job market. Many organizations explicitly prefer or require PACE or give hiring preference to certified candidates.

Earning your PACE proves you are seriously committed to advancing your admin career.

3. Command Better Salaries

Statistics show that PACE certification correlates with higher salaries. In a recent ASAP survey, certified admins reported earning an average of 15-20% more than their uncertified peers.

Your PACE credential allows you to demand higher pay and better positions. It shows your skills warrant more compensation.

4. Expand Your Knowledge

Preparing for the PACE exam requires learning across a wide breadth of administrative and business topics. You’ll deepen your expertise and skillset in the process.

PACE prep resources like training courses, practice exams, and study groups expand your capabilities. Certification keeps you on top of your professional development.

5. Achieve Career Growth

PACE certification demonstrates drive and initiative—qualities managers value in up-and-coming talent. Earning your PACE is a springboard for taking on greater responsibilities and authority.

Many admins leverage their PACE status to transition into executive assistant, office manager, or other leadership roles. The credential shows you are ready for the next level.

Who Is Eligible for PACE?

PACE is open to any administrative professionals who meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have at least 1 year of experience in an administrative role
• Commit to abiding by the ASAP Code of Ethics

Administrative roles include positions like:

• Executive assistant
• Administrative assistant
• Secretary
• Receptionist
• Office coordinator
• Operations coordinator

Prior administrative experience ensures PACE candidates have context for applying the knowledge covered in the certification. But otherwise, PACE has no formal prerequisites. Admins from diverse backgrounds and experience levels pursue certification.

Certain preparation is highly recommended to pass the challenging PACE exam (see tips below). But any motivated admin can register for and earn their credential.

How to Earn Your PACE Certification

So how exactly do you tackle PACE certification? Here is an overview of the key steps in the PACE process:

1. Decide on Self-Study or Guided Prep

You first need to determine your study approach. ASAP offers both self-guided and instructor-led training options:

• Self-study – You review the study guide and materials independently. This is the most flexible and affordable approach.

• Guided prep – You take a prep course through live or on-demand lessons. This provides structure, coaching, and collaboration.

Choose the path that fits your budget and learning preferences.

2. Enroll in the PACE Program

Once you decide on your prep method, you can enroll directly through ASAP. Both online self-study and virtual classroom programs are available.

You’ll gain access to the study materials, knowledge content, and practice exams after enrolling.

3. Study and Prepare for the Exam

This is where the real work begins. Plan to spend at least 4-6 weeks thoroughly reviewing all study materials and topics tested on the PACE exam.

Practicing sample PACE tests is highly recommended during preparation. Mimicking exam conditions helps build confidence and identify knowledge gaps.

Study groups, prep courses, and other aids can provide structure and support during your studies. Budget ample time to learn and retain the material.

4. Schedule and Take the PACE Exam

When you feel ready, you can schedule your PACE exam date through ASAP. The 4-hour proctored exam is offered year-round at secured test centers.

You’ll need to provide ID and follow exam rules. Results are provided immediately after completing the 180 question computerized test.

5. Get Certified!

Once you pass the exam, you are officially PACE certified! ASAP will issue your certification number and digital badge verifying your new credentials.

Now you can add the coveted PACE initials after your name, update your resume, linkedIn, and business cards, and leverage your new certification to advance your career and earnings potential.

Recertification is required every 3 years by either retaking the exam or earning continuing education units (CEUs). But recertification helps reinforce and expand your skills.

PACE Certification Exam Details

The PACE exam itself is no cakewalk. The rigorous 180 question test thoroughly measures comprehension across the administrative skill areas.

Here are some key facts on the PACE certification exam:

• Format: Computer-based test (CBT)
• Length: 4 hours
• # of Questions: 180 multiple choice questions
• Content: Communication, Project Management, Technology, Leadership
• Passing Score: 70% correct overall
• Frequency: Offered year-round
• Locations: 700+ secured testing centers globally

Thorough preparation using the ASAP study materials and sample tests is strongly recommended. But anyone willing to put in the work can pass the PACE test.

PACE Certification Costs

So what kind of investment does PACE certification require? PACE involves both enrollment and exam fees.

Self-study program enrollment starts at $475. Guided prep with live online courses starts at $650. Private coaching and bundled packages are also available.

The PACE exam itself costs $350. Retakes are $300 if needed. Recertification through CEUs is $125 every 3 years.

Some employers offer full or partial reimbursement of PACE costs. Many admins feel the boost in earnings potential outweighs the upfront costs.

Preparing for PACE Certification

The best way to prepare for the PACE exam is to utilize the official ASAP study materials. The PACE Handbook covers all exam content areas extensively.

Supplementing with ASAP’s online training courses, practice tests, and study groups can further boost readiness. Here are some top tips for PACE prep:

• Start early – Allow several months for thorough review of the study guide.

• Stick to a schedule – Block out consistent daily/weekly study sessions.

• Take practice tests – Mimic exam conditions and pacing to build confidence.

• Focus on weaknesses – Double down on knowledge gaps identified from practice questions.

• Participate in study groups – Collaborating with peers reinforces learning.

• Understand concepts – Don’t just memorize facts, learn to apply knowledge.

With dedication and smart preparation, any administrative pro can earn their PACE and reap the rewards.

PACE Certification FAQs

Some common questions prospective candidates have about PACE certification include:

Is PACE certification worth it?

Yes, PACE delivers immense value. PACE holders earn $9,000 more on average and have double the job growth than non-certified admins, per ASAP.

Does my employer need to pay for PACE?

No, you can self-fund PACE or request reimbursement. Many admins pursue PACE on their own time to advance their careers.

How long does it take to get PACE certified?