100+ Free CECP Practice Questions
Pass your Certified Executive Compensation Professional (CECP) exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.
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Key Facts: CECP Exam
100
Exam Questions
Multiple-choice format
3 hrs
Time Limit
180 minutes total
75%
Passing Score
WorldatWork standard
3+ yrs
Experience Required
Executive comp experience
$2,000+
Total Cost
Exam fee + materials
The CECP exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions with a 3-hour time limit and a 75% passing score. Candidates must have 3+ years of executive compensation experience. The exam covers executive pay design, equity compensation and ASC 718 accounting, SEC regulatory compliance, corporate governance (ISS/Glass Lewis), and executive benefits including deferred compensation and SERPs. Total cost including study materials exceeds $2,000.
About the CECP Exam
The CECP certification is the premier credential for executive compensation professionals. It validates deep expertise in designing C-suite pay packages, equity compensation plans, SEC proxy disclosure requirements, say-on-pay governance, and compliance with IRC 162(m), 280G, and 409A regulations.
Questions
100 scored questions
Time Limit
3 hours
Passing Score
75%
Exam Fee
$2,000+ (WorldatWork)
CECP Exam Content Outline
Executive Pay Design
Base salary, annual incentives, LTIP design, total direct compensation, peer group analysis, and pay mix
Equity Compensation
Stock options, RSUs, performance shares, SARs, dilution management, and ASC 718 accounting
Regulatory Compliance
SEC proxy disclosure, say-on-pay, Dodd-Frank, IRC 162(m), 280G golden parachutes, and clawback rules
Corporate Governance
Board compensation committees, ISS/Glass Lewis policies, shareholder activism, and CD&A
Benefits & Perquisites
Deferred compensation (409A), SERPs, executive benefits, and change-in-control provisions
How to Pass the CECP Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 75%
- Exam length: 100 questions
- Time limit: 3 hours
- Exam fee: $2,000+
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
CECP Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CECP certification?
The CECP (Certified Executive Compensation Professional) is a senior-level credential from WorldatWork that validates expertise in executive compensation design, equity plans, SEC regulations, say-on-pay governance, and corporate governance. It is the premier certification for professionals working in C-suite compensation, proxy advisory, and board advisory roles.
What are the prerequisites for the CECP exam?
Candidates must have at least 3 years of professional experience in executive compensation or a closely related field. A strong understanding of corporate governance, SEC disclosure rules, equity compensation, and tax regulations is expected. WorldatWork recommends completing their executive compensation curriculum before sitting for the exam.
What topics are covered on the CECP exam?
The CECP exam covers five major areas: executive pay design (base salary, annual incentives, LTIPs, peer groups), equity compensation (stock options, RSUs, performance shares, ASC 718), regulatory compliance (SEC proxy, Dodd-Frank, IRC 162(m), 280G, clawbacks), corporate governance (compensation committees, ISS/Glass Lewis, CD&A), and executive benefits (409A deferred comp, SERPs, change-in-control).
How difficult is the CECP exam?
The CECP exam is considered one of the most challenging HR certifications due to the depth of regulatory, governance, and technical accounting knowledge required. Candidates report needing 100-150 hours of study. The exam tests not just knowledge but application — expect scenario-based questions requiring analysis of complex compensation situations.
How much does the CECP exam cost?
The total cost for the CECP exam exceeds $2,000, including the exam fee and recommended study materials. WorldatWork members may receive discounted pricing. Additional costs include preparation courses and study guides. Most candidates' employers cover these costs as professional development.