How to pass the SHRM-CP exam on the first try: proven study plan and tips
Want to pass the SHRM-CP exam on your first try? Learn expert-backed study strategies, prep timelines, and the best resources for SHRM-CP success.
Passing the SHRM-CP exam on your first attempt is absolutely possible—with the right strategy, mindset, and study tools. Whether you're an early-career HR professional or someone transitioning into HR, this guide will walk you through exactly how to prepare for the SHRM-CP exam, avoid common mistakes, and confidently walk into test day.
What is the SHRM-CP?
The SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) is a credential offered by the Society for Human Resource Management. It's designed for HR professionals who implement policies, support day-to-day operations, and interact with employees directly. It tests both HR knowledge and behavioral competencies using real-world scenarios.
SHRM-CP Exam Quick Facts:
Eligibility: Depends on education and HR experience
Exam Format: 134 questions (80 knowledge items, 54 situational judgment questions)
Duration: 4 hours
Test Windows: Winter and Spring
Cost: $375 (exam) + $150 (application fee)
Step-by-step guide to passing the SHRM-CP
📝 Understand the SHRM BASK (Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge): Before you even open a book, get familiar with the SHRM BASK - this is the foundation of the exam. It covers …
Behavioral competencies like leadership, communication and relationship management
HR Knowledge domains like people, organization and workplace
📅 Create a 60- or 90-day study plan. Consistency is key. Depending on how much time you have, here’s a sample breakdown:
60-day plan:
Weeks 1-2: focus on the people domain and leadership
Weeks 3-4: focus on the organization domain and communication
Weeks 5-6: focus on the workplace knowledge domain and ethics
Weeks 7-8: focus on practice exams and a full review
90-day plan:
Take 2–3 weeks for each domain
Spend the final month reviewing and taking practice tests
💡 Tip: Study in small, focused sessions—30 to 45 minutes a day is better than a weekend cram.
📚 Choose the right SHRM-CP study materials. I highly recommend Exam Edge when you’re ready to purchase study materials. Exam Edge specializes in realistic online practice tests with detailed feedback for every question. This isn’t just about memorizing answers, it’s about mastering the material to ensure you’re confident on exam day. With Exam Edge, you’ll gain access to …
✅ Access to over 1,300 unique questions for the SHRM-CP alone!
✅ Flexible bundles: Choose from 1, 5, 10, or even 15 practice tests. (Pro tip: The 10 or 15-test bundles offer the best value AND bonus freebies!)
✅ Detailed feedback that helps you truly understand the material.
If you’re interested in starting your study journey with Exam Edge, use my code SHIRLEY10 to save 10% on your order. You can look through Exam Edge’s catalog here.
💯 Master situational judgement questions. Over 40% of the SHRM-CP exam focuses on scenario-based questions, where you choose the best response as an HR professional. Remember to …
✅ Think like SHRM. What’s legally complaint and ethically strategic?
✅ Avoid answers that escalate conflict or delay action.
✅ Focus on SHRM’s perspective on leadership and DEI.
⏳ Take timed practice exams weekly. Don’t just study - simulate the est. Schedule at least 1–2 full-length practice exams in the final weeks of your study plan. After each test, review every question, especially the ones you missed.
🔥 Hot Tip: Track your weak areas and review that specific content before your next attempt.
📎 Avoid learning new material the week before the exam. Instead, focus on:
Flashcards
Practice questions
Review notes and marked textbook sections
Rest and mindset prep
Remember: A calm, confident brain performs better than an overwhelmed one.
Bonus: what I did to pass the SHRM-CP on the first try
I passed my SHRM-CP while working full-time and here’s what worked best for me:
Studied 5 days/week in 30-minute blocks
Created visual summaries of each domain
Took 3 full-length practice exams
Focused heavily on understanding, not just memorizing
Watched explainer videos for competencies I struggled with (check out the resources here!)
Final thoughts
If you’ve been asking “how do I pass the SHRM-CP exam on the first try?”—this is your roadmap. Focus on understanding concepts, practice applying them to real-world situations, and believe in your ability to succeed.