How to Get Your CEBS
How to Get Your CEBS®
To earn your CEBS designation, you will complete five required courses using a self-paced, self-study curriculum.
Earn your Group Benefits Associate (GBA) or Retirement Plans Associate (RPA) designation by completing a specified combination of three courses—all counting toward earning the CEBS designation.
Webinar: Your Complete Guide to Earning the CEBS Designation
Whether you are contemplating starting your CEBS designation or right in the thick of studying for your next exam, this 30-minute webinar followed by a live question-and-answer session is a complete guide to earning your CEBS. Join CEBS staff live for an upcoming webinar or watch a recorded previous session.
U.S. Content
RPA Designation
Your Next Steps
No prerequisites required—Jump right in. CEBS offers streamlined core courses with laser-focused content so you can learn more in less time. You are only a few simple steps away from beginning your CEBS journey.
U.S. Students
- Select Course
- Order Study Materials online or download form
- Select Exam time frame
How to Prepare for Each Exam
Your best CEBS journey depends on your experience and learning style, and it may vary from course to course. The new CEBS is designed to flex to fit you.
Schedule Required Exam
Each course requires the successful completion of a 75 to 85 question comprehensive exam.
Order Study Materials
Exams cover content from the Study Guide and textbook assigned to each course.
Consider Online Study Groups With Instructor Support
Online Study Groups provide access to instructors, a structured time frame and peer interaction.
CEBS Required Courses—U.S.
Earn your CEBS designation by successfully completing five required course exams. We recommend starting with GBA 1 or RPA 1 and working toward earning your Group Benefits Associate (GBA) or Retirement Plans Associate (RPA) on your path to the full CEBS designation.
View the full brochure.
Study Options
Choose a study method and timeline that fits you. Consider your professional and educational experience with the content of each course—You'll find a path that fits your needs for each course.
Self-Study
Each course Study Guide is designed to guide you through the content that will be covered on that exam. You will need a textbook and a Study Guide, which includes a printed copy of the Study Guide and access to an online environment with added digital features, including supplemental readings and a practice exam.
Online Study Groups With Instructor Support
Optional Online Study Groups complement the self-study approach with added instruction, guidance and community support.
Canadian Content
RPA Designation
Your Next Steps
No prerequisites required—Jump right in. CEBS offers streamlined core courses with laser-focused content so you can learn more in less time. You are only a few simple steps away from beginning your CEBS journey.
Canadian Students
- Select Course
- Order Study Materials at www.booksforbusiness.com
- Order Exams and Online Study Groups online or download form
- Select Exam time frame
How to Prepare for Each Exam
Your best CEBS journey depends on your experience and your learning style, and it may even vary from course to course. The new CEBS is designed to flex to fit you.
Schedule Required Exam
Each course requires the successful completion of a 100-question comprehensive exam.
Order Study Materials
Exams cover content from the Study Guide and textbook assigned to each course.
Consider Online Study Groups With Instructor Support
Online Study Groups provide access to instructors, a structured time frame and peer interaction.
CEBS Required Courses—Canada
Earn your CEBS designation by successfully completing five required course exams. We recommend starting with GBA 1 or RPA 1 and working toward earning your Group Benefits Associate (GBA) or Retirement Plans Associate (RPA) on your path to the full CEBS designation.
Study Options
Choose a study method and timeline that fits you. Consider your professional and educational experience with the content of each course—You'll find a path that fits your needs for each course.
Self-Study
Each course Study Guide is designed to guide you through the content that will be covered on that exam. You will need a textbook and a study guide, which includes a printed copy of the Study Guide and access to an online environment with added digital features, including supplemental readings and a practice exam.
Online Study Groups With Instructor Support
Optional online study groups complement the self-study approach with added instruction, guidance and community support.
Exam Accommodations Policy
CEBS will attempt to assist candidates requesting testing accommodations to the extent that it is reasonably able. If you have a disability or other need that may affect your ability to take the CEBS examinations under standard conditions, requests for accommodations must be made at the same time your examination application is submitted or at least two weeks prior to taking an exam. The form and additional information are available for U.S. students and Canadian students.
Your Commitment
The CEBS-focused curriculum allows students to attain the credential in less than three years. Course costs vary depending on the study method you choose.
Young Professionals Scholarship
In an effort to advance the knowledge of young employee benefits professionals and encourage their future participation as volunteers in the benefits industry, the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists (ISCEBS) have created a scholarship opportunity. [MORE]
Frequently Asked Questions | Contact Us
Still looking for more information? Check out CEBS FAQ for further details on the program.
Questions about your next step? Give us a call or email us.
U.S.—(800) 449-2327, option 3, or [email protected]
Canada—(833) 886-3749 or [email protected]