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 in the planning profession.

AICP Certification Diversity scholarships help make the planning profession more diverse. Diversity is an inclusive concept which 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 for the scholarship, please submit an applicaton. Here are additional details:

  • Fifty scholarships will be awarded through a lottery system. Applicants can choose to 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, or members who passed the exam and would like to receive an additional scholarship for the assessment, can 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 deadline has past.

Certification Timeline*

Spring Cycle

March — Scholarship recipients selected

April — AICP registration window opens

May — Members take exam

June — AICP assessment submission window opens

Fall Cycle

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 $100
Essay Appeal (if needed/requested) $100 $100
Total $510 $370