CESI at a glance
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Examination | Certification Exam for Structural Integration (CESI℠) |
| Format | Computer-based, multiple choice |
| Number of questions | 120 |
| Testing provider | Pearson VUE |
| Eligibility | Approved education and eligibility review |
| Result | Pass/fail |
| Purpose | Assessment of entry-level professional competency |
| Required for BCSI | Yes |
Purpose
The CESI assesses entry-level competency for the safe and effective practice of Structural Integration, independently of a candidate's educational program. It exists to:
- Provide an independent assessment of professional competency
- Protect the public through standardized assessment and certification
- Keep education and certification separate
- Uphold the integrity of the Structural Integration profession
The exam measures the minimum knowledge needed for safe and effective practice. It is not intended to define or limit the practice of Structural Integration.
Exam structure
The CESI:
- Has 120 multiple-choice questions, each with four options; candidates choose the single best answer
- Is taken on a computer
- Is offered at official Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide
- Is conducted and timed under standardized testing procedures
Content areas
Exam content is based on a validated Practice Analysis of Structural Integration practice.
| Content area | Share of exam |
|---|---|
| The Work | 42% |
| Assessment | 20% |
| Therapeutic Relationship | 15% |
| Strategy | 15% |
| Ethics & Professional Issues | 8% |
These domains reflect the tasks and knowledge required for competent entry-level practice.
How the CESI is developed
The CESI is maintained through an ongoing credentialing process. The Certification Board for Structural Integration (CBSI℠):
- Conducts a profession-wide Practice Analysis
- Identifies domains, tasks, and required knowledge
- Validates findings through practitioner surveys
- Works with professional psychometric consultants
- Reviews and expands the exam item bank
The CESI is designed according to principles consistent with National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) accreditation standards.
Who can take the CESI
To sit for the CESI, candidates must:
- Graduate from an IASI Recognized Basic Training program
- Submit the required documentation
- Complete the eligibility review
- Pay the exam fee
Taking the exam
After your eligibility is approved and your payment is confirmed:
- You'll receive authorization to schedule your exam.
- You must complete the exam within your assigned testing window.
- You'll need to bring two forms of identification on exam day.
Pearson VUE staff oversee the exam under standardized testing conditions.
Scoring and results
The CESI is scored using validated psychometric methods. Candidates receive a pass/fail result, based on competency standards established through the Practice Analysis. Results are communicated according to CBSI policy.
Study and preparation
Candidates are responsible for their own preparation. IASI provides:
- A Candidate Handbook
- A Study Guide outlining the content areas
- Descriptions of the exam domains
The Study Guide offers general preparation guidance. It doesn't guarantee performance or fully describe Structural Integration theory or practice.
Download Study Guide Download Candidate Handbook [links needed]
Exam history
The first official CESI was given on October 7, 2007, at the IASI Symposium in Boston. Since then, more than 400 candidates worldwide have taken it. The exam is reviewed and updated periodically to reflect changes in professional practice and new Practice Analysis findings.
Contribute to the exam
BCSIs are encouraged to help develop the CESI by:
- Submitting potential exam questions
- Taking part in Practice Analysis surveys
- Serving as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)
To learn more, contact [Certification email].