200+ Free SHRM-CP Practice Questions
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Key Facts: SHRM-CP Exam
~66%
First-Time Pass Rate
SHRM
200/500
Passing Score
SHRM
4 hours
Exam Duration
SHRM
134
Scored Questions
SHRM
$375
Exam Fee
SHRM
$75,000
Median Salary
SHRM 2024
The SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) certification has a ~66% first-time pass rate and requires a scaled score of 200/500 to pass. The exam covers 9 behavioral competencies (50% of exam) and 3 HR knowledge domains (50% of exam). SHRM reports over 130,000 SHRM-CP certified professionals worldwide. SHRM-CP holders earn a median salary of $75,000 according to SHRM salary data.
About the SHRM-CP Exam
The SHRM-CP certification validates expertise in HR operations and implementation for early-to-mid-career HR professionals. It covers behavioral competencies including leadership, ethical practice, business acumen, and consultation, plus HR knowledge in people, organization, and workplace domains.
Questions
160 scored questions
Time Limit
4 hours
Passing Score
200/500 (scaled)
Exam Fee
$375 (SHRM / Prometric)
SHRM-CP Exam Content Outline
Behavioral Competencies
Leadership, ethical practice, business acumen, relationship management, communication, global mindset, consultation, analytical aptitude, and DEI
People (HR Knowledge)
HR strategy, talent acquisition, employee engagement, learning & development, and total rewards
Organization (HR Knowledge)
Structure of HR, organizational effectiveness, workforce management, employee & labor relations, and technology management
Workplace (HR Knowledge)
HR in the global context, diversity & inclusion, risk management, corporate social responsibility, and US employment law
How to Pass the SHRM-CP Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 200/500 (scaled)
- Exam length: 160 questions
- Time limit: 4 hours
- Exam fee: $375
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
SHRM-CP Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SHRM-CP exam pass rate?
The SHRM-CP exam has approximately a 66% first-time pass rate according to SHRM data. To pass, you need a scaled score of 200 out of 500. The exam consists of 160 questions (134 scored + 26 pretest) with a 4-hour time limit.
How hard is the SHRM-CP exam?
The SHRM-CP exam is considered moderately difficult, focusing on both behavioral competencies and HR knowledge. Most candidates study for 8-12 weeks, dedicating 40-60 hours of preparation. Questions include both knowledge-based and situational judgment items.
What are the eligibility requirements for SHRM-CP?
To take the SHRM-CP exam, you need: (1) A bachelor's degree plus 1 year in HR, OR (2) A graduate degree in HR or a related program, OR (3) Working in an HR role with a less-than-bachelor's degree plus 3 years of HR experience. Currently in an HR role is recommended.
How many questions are on the SHRM-CP exam?
The SHRM-CP exam contains 160 multiple-choice questions: 134 scored questions and 26 unscored pretest questions. You have 4 hours to complete the exam. Questions include both knowledge-based and situational judgment items.
What is the difference between SHRM-CP and PHR?
SHRM-CP is administered by SHRM and emphasizes behavioral competencies alongside HR knowledge, while PHR is administered by HRCI and focuses more on technical HR knowledge. SHRM-CP uses situational judgment questions; PHR uses traditional multiple-choice. Both are respected certifications in the HR field.
How should I prepare for the SHRM-CP exam?
Effective SHRM-CP preparation includes: (1) Study for 8-12 weeks using SHRM-approved materials, (2) Complete at least 200 practice questions, (3) Focus on behavioral competencies alongside HR knowledge, (4) Practice situational judgment questions, (5) Master the SHRM BoCK framework.