Introduction to the LEED AP Credential
LEED Accredited Professionals (LEED APs) are recognized sustainability experts who are able to facilitate the rating of buildings with the various LEED systems. By becoming a LEED AP, you are not only making a sound career investment, you are taking an essential step to remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry. (Already a LEED AP? See how the new credential process affect you.)
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LEED AP: The Most Recognized Green Building Credential in the World
There are more than 140,000 LEED AP's today, with more being certified every week at an unprecedented rate. While LEED AP has always been a distinguished credential, many employers now require LEED AP accreditation for new hires and are mandating LEED AP accreditation as part of their current employees' development plans. The demand for LEED APs has grown substantially as more states and cities require LEED certification for new and government operated buildings, and will continue to grow as focus shifts towards making existing buildings more energy efficient.
Becoming a LEED AP requires the passing of two challenging 2-hour proctored exams. LEED exams are known for both their comprehensiveness and difficulty. Professionals who do not prepare through a structured program generally do not pass on their first attempt. This rigorous approach has helped maintain the quality associated with LEED professionals and is partly why the title of LEED AP is respected by employers, colleagues and clients alike. Proper preparation for the exams is so important that proof of attendance in a green building class, such as those offered by EIA, is required to apply for the Green Associate Exam.You can pass the LEED exams the first time and with much less effort if you approach them with a strategy and a structured program! That's where EIA comes in - in fact, our students have a pass rate that exceeds 90%!
The LEED AP Credential Structure
The LEED v3 credential process features multiple tiers of accreditation that demonstrate both levels of proficiency and areas of specialization. If you are already a LEED AP, read about how the new credential process affects you.
The first tier is LEED Green Associate. This credential covers the basics of green building and is required to acquire the Tier 2 LEED AP credential. By itself, it is a great credential for those seeking to demonstrate general knowledge of LEED and green building practices. Those who pass are permitted to use the Green Associate title and professional logo on your business card, resume and marketing.
The second tier is LEED Accredited Professional with Specialty. You have the option of five separate exams that allow for demonstration of your of advanced knowledge of green building practices in a specialized field. Only one of these needs to be passed (in addition to the LEED Green Associate exam) to permit use the LEED AP acronym after your name, along with the appropriate LEED AP specialty logo. Many professionals seek multiple accreditations to demonstrate deep expertise in multiple fields.
LEED AP Fellows are distinguished by their years' of experience and have demonstrated major contributions to the green building body of knowledge. This title is awarded by peer review only.
The First Step: LEED Green Associate
To acquire the LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) credential, you must pass a 2-hour, 100 question exam which will test your knowledge of fundamental green building concepts. LEED Green Associate is the best introduction to green building that you will find. LEED GA is an inch-deep, mile-wide overview providing insights into diverse of aspects of sustainable design and construction.
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How Much Does it Cost to Become a LEED Green Associate?
Get Started with LEED Green Associate!
Ready to get started? Check out the EIA LEED Green Associate Exam Prep classes near you.
The Next Level: LEED AP with Specialty
To acquire the LEED AP with Specialty credential, you must pass a 2-hour, 100 question exam which will test your knowledge in one of five green building specializations. The LEED AP with Specialty credential is for professionals seeking to demonstrate an advanced depth of knowledge in a particular areas of green building practices. (Already a LEED AP? See how the new credential process affects you.)
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Which AP Specialization is Right for You?
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Building Design & Construction |
Interior Design & Construction |
Operations & Maintenance |
Homes |
Neighborhood Development |
| Covers | Design and construction phases of new high-performance buildings and retrofits |
Design and construction of high-performance commercial spaces and tenant improvements | Sustainable operation and maintenance of existing buildings | Design and construction of high-performance green homes | Design and development of environmentally sound neighborhoods. (Under development) |
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How Much Does it Cost to Become a LEED AP?
Learn how you can save money pursuing your LEED credential!
Get Started Pursuing Your LEED AP!
Ready to pursue a LEED AP with Specialty? Select a specialty below to find a class near you.
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How to Save Money Pursuing Your LEED AP
Buy Complete Study Packages Instead of Buying Study Aids Individually
EIA courses include not only hours of live, interactive instruction, but also come with study guides, practice exams, memorization aides, audio programs and much more. Enrolling in an EIA class will give you everything you need to pass the exam, as well as guidance for how to use the materials most effectively. Many of EIA's classes include over $100 worth of study materials, at no extra charge!
Take the LEED GA and AP Exams Together
While they can be taken separately, the LEED Green Associate and LEED AP Specialty exams were designed to be taken back-to-back in a single setting. Approaching the LEED AP exam in this manner not only reduces the amount of time it will take to obtain your credential, it can also save you up to $200!
Leverage Organization Affiliations Discounts
As shown above, you can reduce the cost of your exam if you are a full-time student or a National Member of the USGBC.
EIA also offers many class discounts for many industry organizations. Call us at 800-459-3090 or contact us to see if your organization qualifies.
