Introduction to Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)

When you attain Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP), you:

Commit to your profession
Separate yourself from the competition
Enhance your professional credibility
Provide proof of your expertise

What is Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)?
The CSEP designation is the hallmark of professional achievement in the special events industry. It is earned through education, performance, experience, and service to the industry, and reflects a commitment to professional conduct and ethics.

The CSEP designation is awarded by the International Special Events Society (ISES) and its Certification Committee. ISES is the only international umbrella organization representing professionals in all disciplines of the special events industry. Education and a commitment to professionalism are cornerstones of ISES.

Why Should I Be Certified?
The special events industry has experienced phenomenal growth over the past several years and is changing at an even faster pace. Today, special events are more challenging and require a level of professionalism equal to none. Become a recipient of the CSEP designation and set yourself apart from the competition.
CSEP Exam Overview
Basic CSEP Requirements
Basic CSEP Requirements
To qualify as a candidate for the CSEP exam, you must demonstrate a broad range of experience in the special events industry including:
∠A minimum of three (3) years employment experience in the special events industry
∠Current, full-time employment in the special events industry*
* ISES will accept applications from candidates who have been unemployed for a period less than twelve (12) months from the date his or her application is submitted.
CSEP Exam Dates and Deadlines/Fees/SMT Information
The Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) designation is the hallmark of professional achievement in the special events industry. The CSEP is earned through education, performance, experience and service, and reflects a commitment to professional conduct and ethics.

The CSEP Exam Candidate Instruction Manual contains everything you need to complete the CSEP application and exam process. To avoid problems in processing your application, be sure to follow all the guidelines and comply with the required deadlines.

Current CSEP Exams Dates and Deadlines

Recertification for the Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)
The CSEP designation is awarded by the International Special Events Society (ISES). Candidates who earn the CSEP designation will be required to be recertified every five (5) years to maintain the designation. Recertification will occur via the point system determined by the ISES Certification Committee.

A Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) must have accumulated a minimum of thirty-five (35) points before the recertification application may be submitted. Verification of points will be required. No exam is required

• Professional Special Event Planning Industry Experience
• Special Events Industry Membership
• Special Events Industry Leadership
• Education
• Professional Development and Continuing Education
• Professional Industry Contributions (Including grading at least 3 CSEP essays)
• Volunteer Activities
• Industry Awards and Professional Designations

CSEP Fees & Refund Policies

Fees must be paid by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) money order, cashier’s check or personal check made payable to ISES. If paying by credit card, complete all information on the payment forms, including signature.

Please visit http://www.ises.com/CSEP for further details and how to order the Candidate Instruction Manual. If you have any questions or would like to be part of the on going study group, please contact: Kim Rhein at Butler’s Pantry, 314-664-7680 or kim@butlerspantry.com.