Preparing | Applying | Testing Process | Application [PDF]¹

The Testing Process

After successfully applying for accreditation, a two part examination will be conducted by appointment. Please allow at least two to three weeks for scheduling your examination.

The first part is an open book written examination given on an individual basis. Most of the written tests consist of six parts and take approximately 8 hours to complete. The six parts are:

1. Handwriting - You will be tested on your ability to read a genealogical document (or documents) relative to the geographic area and time period of your area of specialty.

2. Document recognition - You will be asked to identify important types of documents and reference sources for your area of specialty.

3. Electronic databases - Your knowledge of the content and application to research of electronic databases created by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, other non-profit groups, and commercial organizations relating to your geographical area will be tested. Emphasis will be placed on computer files such as the International Genealogical Index® (IGI), Internet sources, databases on CD, and others.

4. Brief pedigree evaluations - You will be asked to list the sources you would search to try to extend each pedigree and what you would expect to find in those sources.

5. Pedigree problem - You will be given an actual practical pedigree problem in which you will carry out research in the Family History Library and write a report to a patron detailing the results of the search and what you would suggest needs still to be done.

6. General questions and answers - Your knowledge of facts pertaining to the history and records of your chosen area will be covered in this section. Such things as types of records, time period, content, and availability will be tested, as well as historical events affecting research.

If you should fail to pass the written examination, you may retake the test. You will be asked to wait for at least three months before you reapply. You will also be asked to demonstrate to ICAPGen that you have taken sufficient measures to overcome the weaknesses apparent in the previous test.

The second part of the formal testing is an oral examination. Oral exams are only scheduled following the successful completion of the written test wherein a grade of 90% or better was achieved. The oral examination has two key objectives and lasts about 1 ½ hours. The objectives to be achieved are:

1. A review of the written examination.

2. An evaluation of the applicant’s defense of the pedigree case study submitted with the accreditation application.

Preparing | Applying | Testing Process | Application [PDF]¹