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).
  • Scholarships cannot be transferred to a future cycle, but recipients can re-apply.
  • Members who do not receive a scholarship can apply again in any future window.
  • All APA members (both domestic and international) can apply for the scholarship.
  • Contact information and test results for those awarded a scholarship will be shared with APA Chapter Professional Development Officers (PDOs).
  • The dates to apply for the Spring 2025 scholarship are January 6, 2025, at 9:00 am CT to February 28, 2025, at 3:00 pm CT.

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 the 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 the 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 $305 $85
Experience Assessment $305 $85
Exam Transfer (if needed/requested) $100 N/A
Essay Appeal (if needed/requested) $100 $100