AICP Certification Diversity Scholarship

Graphic depicting a diverse group of people.

The American Planning Association is committed to providing opportunities for all to achieve excellence in planning by fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in the organization and the planning profession.

AICP Certification Diversity scholarships help make the planning profession more diverse. Diversity is an inclusive concept that encompasses but is not limited to race, ethnicity, class, gender, age, sexuality, ability, educational attainment, spiritual beliefs, creed, culture, tribal affiliation, nationality, immigration status, financial status, political beliefs, and veteran status.

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying for a scholarship, self-identify with one or more of the categories above, and have a financial need, please apply. Here are additional details:

  • Applicants must be members of APA.
  • Fifty scholarships will be awarded through a lottery system. Applicants can receive the scholarship for the exam or the assessment (not both).
  • Scholarship cannot be transferred to a future cycle, but recipients can re-apply.
  • Members who do not receive a scholarship an apply again in any future window.
  • All APA members (both domestic and international) can apply for the scholarship.
  • Test results will be shared with APA Chapter Professional Development Officers.
 

The scholarship window is now closed.

 

Certification Timeline*

Spring Cycle

Mid-January/February — Scholarship application window open

March — Scholarship recipients selected

April — AICP registration window opens

May — Members take exam

June — AICP assessment submission window opens

Fall Cycle

Mid-July/August — Scholarship application window open

September — Scholarship recipients selected

October — AICP registration window opens

November — Members take exam

December — AICP assessment submission window opens

* The dates for each cycle can be found on our website.

 

AICP Certification fees for Diversity Scholarship recipients

Fee Regular Fees Scholarship Recipient Fees
Program and Exam Registration $255 $85
Experience Assessment $255 $85
Exam Transfer (if needed/requested) $100 N/A
Essay Appeal (if needed/requested) $100 $100