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The Kansas Society of Association Executives 


Certified Associations Executives - CAE

What is a CAE?
A CAE is a Certified Association Executive. The CAE designation is designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and designate those who demonstrate knowledge essential to the practice of association management. The CAE exam and certification are administered through the American Society of Association Executives, ASAE.

The Impact of the CAE.

  • Drives professional self-confidence: 70% of CAE test takers report enhancing knowledge, improving advancement opportunities, and elevating their status in their current position as their motivation
  • Widespread value and recognition: particularly among your board leaders, members, and those involved in hiring nonprofit professionals including executive recruiters and association HR directors.
  • Opens doors and creates connections: through a range of CAE-only events and increased volunteer leadership opportunities through ASAE & The Center and local, state, and regional association professional societies.

CAE 2015 & Beyond

The CAE program was recently evaluated to determine the current views and beliefs regarding CAE certification. The ASAE Foundation sent out two surveys to various populations to measure the familiarity with and perception of the CAE in the ASAE community. One survey was sent to current, former and potential CAEs, and the second survey was sent to hiring managers and employers. A synopsis of the survey results is available here.

In addition, the CAE Commission recently announced an updated Exam Content Outline and expanded eligibility requirements for 2015 through 2019.

Join the select group of peers nationwide who have chosen to attain this high level of excellence and achievement. Learn more at www.WhatIsCAE.org.

Recommended Reading from ASAE:

1. Association Law Handbook, 5th edition
2. ASAE Handbook of Professional Practices in Association Management, 3rd edition
3. The Jossey-Bass Handbook of Nonprofit Leadership and Management, 4th edition
4. How to Read Nonprofit Financial Statements, 3rd edition
5. Membership Essentials: Recruitment, Retention, Roles, Responsibilities, and Resource, 2nd edition
6. CAE Study Guide which includes a practice exam

Detailed Information on the CAE Application or renewal process, please contact ASAE's Credentialing Department at 202-626-2759 or online at www.WhatIsCAE.org.


Renewing Your CAE? 

CAEs must be renewed every three years. The deadline to renew without penalties or late fees is October 31. The absolute renewal deadline is December 31. All requirements must be completed when submitting the renewal application.

Recertification Requirements

Download the renewal application 


2024 Exam Dates:

  • May 1-14, 2024

  • Application deadline: February 23, 2024

  • December 1-14, 2024

  • Application deadline: September 27, 2024

Preparing for the CAE

Preparing for the CAE exam is crucial for your success. KSAE is partnering with the Michigan Society (MSAE) to offer multiple options for virtual prep courses and materials at the member rate. (Make sure to indicate you're a KSAE member to get the discount!)

The study group meets weekly by conference call and all calls are recorded and accessible later if you miss it. The classes include several practice tests and full practice exam.

Click Here for the brochure on online prep course information or visit MSAEs website.

The 2024 MSAE Spring Full Prep Course begins  January  8 and the  Concentrated Course begins February 12.

Cram Sessions in April- view dates






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