ISM - About ISM - Frequently Asked Questions About ISM

Frequently Asked Questions About ISM

Who can join ISM?

Any person interested in the supply management field shall be eligible to be a Regular Member of an Affiliated Association provided that such person does not solicit business on behalf of such person or his or her employer during meetings of any ISM activity, including without limitation, meetings of Affiliated Associations (including chapters) ISM Committees and ISM groups and forums (as defined in Policy).

What are the benefits of ISM membership?

How do I become an ISM member?

Complete a membership application and send it, along with your payment in US funds, to ISM, PO Box 22160, Tempe, AZ 85285-2160, or fax your application with your credit card number and expiration date to +1 480/752-2299, Attn: Customer Service. You can also apply through an affiliate.

How much does membership cost?

Dues vary according to the membership category you choose. ISM Direct Membership is $190 for the first year and $170 to renew. Regular Membership dues vary with each affiliate and are typically determined by geographic location — though you are free to join the affiliate of your choice.

What are the different membership categories?

How do I know which affiliate to join?

Please contact ISM Customer Service for details on the affiliate nearest you at 800/888-6276, option 8 or +1 480/752-6276, option 8.

What is CPSM^® certification?

The Certified Professional in Supply Management^® (CPSM^®) designation, administered by ISM, was launched in 2008. It is the credential that surpasses the demands of the international marketplace with multi-faceted skills in areas such as finance, supplier relationship management, organizational global strategy and risk compliance. The CPSM^® signifies that you possess the knowledge, skills and abilities required to meet an established level of competency in the field of supply management. Get the CPSM^® to acquire an integrated skill set that sets you apart from the competition.

How do I become certified?

Applicants for CPSM^® certification must meet the following criteria:

Three years of full-time, professional supply management experience (nonclerical, nonsupport)

A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or international equivalent

Successfully pass three CPSM^® Exams OR if you are a C.P.M. in good standing, pass the Bridge Exam (test centers located in more than 230 countries)

All candidates must complete and submit the appropriate application for certification.

ISM administers the program for the profession and the public. Membership in ISM is not required. Questions about ISM membership should be directed to ISM Customer Service at 800/888-6276 or +1 480/752-6276, option 8.

How/where/when do I take the CPSM^® exam?

The computer exam is offered year round. The written exam is available in two venues:

The Exam is offered each year at the ISM International Conference.

Special testing dates when requested by employers, associations or affiliates: Onsite CPSM^® and Bridge Exam Testing and Review.

All our computer testing is done at Pearson VUE Testing Centers and can be scheduled at your convenience. Currently there are testing centers in more than 230 countries. Saturday, evening or Sunday hours may be available at some locations.

Examination fees are USD $180 per Exam for ISM members and USD $265 per Exam for nonmembers.

You must contact ISM to register: you can register by mail, fax (+1-480-752-7890), phone (800/888-6276, option 8 or +1-480-752-6276, option 8), or online: https://www.ism.ws/Certification/Register.cfm.

Once you are registered you will receive a confirmation letter from ISM with details on how to schedule an appointment with the Pearson VUE Testing Center nearest you. For Pearson VUE Test center locations, please visit www.pearsonvue.com/ism — select "Find a Test Center" and scroll down to "Institute for Supply Management™ (ISM)."

What study materials should I use to study for the CPSM^® exam?

ISM offers a variety of CPSM^® study materials to assist you in preparing for your exams. Test candidate's experience and needs vary greatly; to meet your personal study preferences, some study materials are available in print or online. For a copy of our Educational Products Catalog featuring a variety of widely recognized study materials, call 800/888-6276, option 8 or +1 480/752-6276, option 8, and request that a catalog be mailed to you.

Do you accept purchase orders?

Yes, for product orders and seminars only and only if your order is for $100 USD or more. We require advanced payment for subscriptions, exams, and membership.

Can I place an order over the telephone by using a credit card?

Yes, you may use MasterCard, Visa, Diner's Club, and American Express. Provide your card number and the expiration date.

How do I check on the status of an order placed last week?

Call ISM Customer Service at 800/888-6276, option 8 or +1 480/752-6276, option 8, and provide your name or ISM ID number, and a customer service representative will research your order.

What is the product return policy?

Can I be invoiced for a seminar?

Seminars must be paid for by the date of the seminar by purchase order, check, or credit card in US funds.

Can I get a seminar outline?

Yes. All seminar outlines are on the Web site. Search for the seminar you wish to learn about and click on the seminar number in the results list.

What is the Journal of Supply Chain Management, and how can I order it?

The Journal of Supply Chain Management is a quarterly publication written specifically for and by purchasing professionals and educators. You may subscribe online at www.blackwellpublishing.com/journal.asp.

What is the Report On Business^®?

The Report On Business^® is an economic forecast arrived at by surveying 300 purchasing professionals in the manufacturing sector representing 20 industries in all 50 states. The Report, compiled monthly and released the first working day of the month, is an easy-to-understand, straightforward report and has proven to be a reliable source of information.