Apply for this SHRM Foundation Grant to Get Your SHRM Learning System Materials

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers a valuable opportunity to obtain the necessary learning materials through their SHRM Foundation Grant program. The SHRM Foundation Grant is a scholarship program offered by the SHRM Foundation, the nonprofit affiliate of SHRM. Its primary objective is to provide financial assistance to HR professionals who aspire to earn their SHRM certification. The grant covers the cost of the SHRM Learning System, a comprehensive study resource designed to prepare individuals for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification exams.

This is an excellent resource from SHRM: SHRM Scholarships, Grants and Awards Overview

Requirements to Apply for the SHRM Foundation Grant

Some requirements in order to be considered for the SHRM Foundation certification grants is that you have to be a current SHRM member and you have to have experience. You have to meet the experience requirements for the CP or the SCP, and then you have to test either in the spring or the winter window of that next year. You might also be surprised to know that the SHRM Foundation does offer grants and scholarships for certification, but they also offer scholarship opportunities to cover the cost of you being able to access certain conferences and events like the annual SHRM conference.

The SHRM Foundation Grant is open to HR professionals who meet the following criteria:

1. Active SHRM members in good standing.

2. Demonstrated financial need or lack of employer financial support.

3. Intent to pursue SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification within the next 12 months.

4. Commitment to using the SHRM Learning System to prepare for the certification exams.

5. Compliance with any additional eligibility requirements outlined by the SHRM Foundation.

The SHRM Foundation grant covers all your SHRM learning system and those study prep materials. So when you receive the grant, you’ll be able to receive your SHRM learning system online access as well as the books. This does not cover the cost of the actual exam. But the SHRM Foundation grant covers educational study materials through SHRM with their SHRM learning system. 

How to Apply for the SHRM Foundation Grant

Every year the SHRM Foundation opens up their grants and scholarship program. Normally for SHRM certification for the CP and the SCP, it happens in the fall months, normally August through October. So if you’re looking at the 2024 testing window, you would apply for the SHRM Foundation grant in August through October of 2023. When you submit your application, you have to fill out a short form and answer some questions about your career and volunteer experience. You’ll also include a copy of your resume and a letter of reference from somebody who can vouch for you – like a work colleague or or your boss about why you should be a recipient of the SHRM Foundation Certification grant. There are 21 different opportunities to be eligible or to receive a foundation grant for certification, and these are awarded through different chapters that work with the SHRM Foundation. For example, there’s one for Florida. There’s one from the Kansas State Council, the Texas Bay Area SHRM chapter. So if you’re a member of these chapters, it’s more likely that you’ll receive a grant for certification. 

Applying for the SHRM Foundation Grant is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to submit your application:

1. Visit the SHRM Foundation’s official website and navigate to the Grants & Scholarships section.

2. Review the eligibility requirements and grant details.

3. Complete the online application form, providing accurate and relevant information.

4. Submit any supporting documents or statements required to demonstrate financial need or lack of employer financial support.

5. Review and verify your application before submitting it.

Benefits of the SHRM Foundation Grant

Obtaining the SHRM Foundation Grant offers several benefits for aspiring HR professionals:

Financial Support: The grant covers the cost of the SHRM Learning System, which includes comprehensive study materials, online resources, and practice exams. This financial assistance can alleviate the financial burden often associated with exam preparation.

Comprehensive Study Materials: The SHRM Learning System is a trusted and comprehensive resource endorsed by SHRM. It provides a comprehensive overview of the HR competencies and knowledge required to succeed in the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exams. With access to these materials, you can enhance your understanding of HR concepts, practices, and regulations.

Exam Readiness: The SHRM Learning System is specifically designed to prepare individuals for the SHRM certification exams. It includes practice questions, case studies, and interactive exercises to assess and reinforce your knowledge. By utilizing these materials, you can build confidence and increase your chances of passing the exams.

Professional Development: Pursuing SHRM certification demonstrates your commitment to professional development and ongoing learning. The certification enhances your marketability and credibility as an HR professional, opening up new career opportunities and increasing your earning potential.

I think it’s so great that an organization like SHRM offers these opportunities to help level the playing field for so many HR professionals who want to get certified, but find the cost prohibitive. 

If you apply for the SHRM Foundation Grant and are not approved, we’re here to help. Ace the HR Exam’s monthly subscription option starts at just $49.99, giving you an affordable way to study and prepare for your HR exams including the aPHR, PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. Visit Ace the HR Exam for all the details!

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