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The SPARK Accredited Retirement Plan Specialist (ARPS) designation is awarded to record keeping and administration professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge required to help employers administer plans that enable employees to effectively save and plan for retirement.
Candidate Handbook
Everything you need to know about applying for, earning and maintaining the ARPS designation can be found in the ARPS Candidate Handbook. Be sure to read it thoroughly as it contains information important to you and your career credentials.
You are strongly encouraged to become familiar with the contents of the Candidate Handbook prior to applying for certification. It contains important policies and procedures and provides the details and directions you will need to apply for, earn and maintain the ARPS designation. |
The Application Process and Fees
Applying for the ARPS program is easy:
- Download and complete the Application forms which include the fees for the designation program and the optional online training courses that help you prepare for the exam.
- Ask your Supervisor to complete the Supervisor Recommendation form.
- Submit the completed forms with your payment information to the SPARK ARPS Certification Manager at r.graham@profdevsolutions.com
You will be notified by email of your acceptance as a candidate for the ARPS designation.
The Exam
The exam was developed by retirement plan industry subject matter experts. It is a 2-hour, 100-question multiple choice exam. The test questions are selected based on the Exam Outline available in the Handbook.
Once you receive your acceptance email, you can schedule your exam date and test site by calling the Comira Candidate Services Call Center. Additional exam scheduling information is provided in the Handbook.
Preparing for the Exam
The Exam Outline is your study guide for the ARPS exam. Optional training materials and courses are also available from Professional Development Solutions. |
Maintaining your Designation
ARPS certification status is granted on a calendar year basis. Certification renewal requires that you complete 10 continuing education credits each calendar year following the year in which you earn your designation.
The Instructions and the 2012 Renewal Application Forms are attached for you to report your 2012 continuing education.
Frequently Asked Questions
The attached FAQs supplement the information provided in the Candidate Handbook.
For more information, contact the Certification Manager at r.graham@profdevsolutions.com
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