FAQ about the Specialist Certification

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What do I need to study in order to pass the specialist exam?

The specialist exam consists of 100 questions (single choice, multiple choice, or true/false). The exam is based on the materials covered in WFI training courses, with a focus on the required courses. If you study the course material thoroughly, you should have no problem passing the exam. We also recommend that you have at least one year of field experience in the air/liquid filtration and separation industry. WFI offers both online live courses and course recordings to help you prepare.

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What are the required courses for the specialist certification?

For the general CFSS certification (most popular), you can find required courses here

If you are only interested in air/gas filtration, find required courses here

If you are only interested in liquid/water filtration, find required courses here

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Can I check references during the exam?

Yes, you are allowed to refer to course handouts and references during the exam. However, please note that you are not permitted to communicate with or connect to others while taking the exam.

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What is the minimum score required to obtain the specialist certification?

To obtain the specialist certification, applicants must achieve a passing grade of 70% or higher on the Specialist Examination. This score threshold ensures qualification for receiving the specialist certificate.

 

What is the cost to take the exam?

Testing fees are included in the specialist registration fee for applicants.

If the applicant fails to pass the exam, and a re-take is necessary, there will not be any fee charged to re-take the exam. There is no fee to renew certification for each renewable cycle.

 

What are the renewal requirements?

To maintain CFSS Certification, you must complete four  (4) continuing education credits (CEC) annually from the categories listed below.

​4 Credits:

• Attended WFI Courses

• Attended WFI Educational Webinars

• Attended WFI Annual Conference

• Attended seminar on air/liquid filtration & separation given by a related association or organization (such as ASHRAE, FILTECH, EPA, AIChE, AFS, INDA, TFS, WFC, or equivalent)

• Attended and passed a college-level course on air/liquid filtration & separation

• Published in a well established journal, conference proceeding or magazine related to air/liquid filtration & separation

• Attended training seminar related to air/liquid filtration & separation given by a supplier/manufacturer of air/liquid filtration & separation related products

 

When / Where can I take the exam next?

• The upcoming CFSS Exam will be conducted online once a year on October 29, 2024, 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM EST. Please note that it is mandatory to have your camera turned on during the exam.