Certification Information for International Applicants
Individuals who have been internationally educated (not in the United States [U.S.]) may apply for the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) or Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP) by completing and submitting the application that is appropriate for their practice area, along with all additional required documents.
Individuals who hold speech-language pathology certification through any of the signatory associations under the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) should use the MRA application process to apply for the CCC-SLP.
Individuals who received their qualifying degree (doctoral degree in audiology or master’s degree in speech-language pathology) in a country with an MRA partner association, but who are not full/certified members of that MRA partner association, must apply as international applicants, even if their permanent residence is in the U.S. or their undergraduate degree was completed in the U.S.
What is the CCC?
The Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) is a voluntary certification. It is an internationally recognized credential for speech-language pathologists and audiologists that shows you have received the highest quality preparation and training, and that you continue to learn advanced techniques through professional development. Because of the importance of the CCC, you must meet specific requirements (our “standards”) as outlined within the current certification standards for audiology or speech-language pathology.
Certification is different from licensure. In order to practice audiology or speech-language pathology, it is required that you hold valid licensure in the state in which you wish to practice. ASHA certification (the CCC) is optional and voluntary, and is often desired in addition to licensure.
Working in the U.S.
ASHA certification is not a permit to practice in the professions of audiology or speech-language pathology in the U.S. State licensure is a requirement for working in any state. If you are looking to work in the U.S., you must contact the state regulatory agency or state licensing board in the state(s) you wish to be employed. While most states have similar requirements to ASHA certification, some states require additional documentation (e.g., copies of exam results, clinical fellowship documents, etc.). These are two separate processes. Holding the CCC does not guarantee that you will obtain state licensure. Similarly, holding state licensure does not guarantee that the CCC will be awarded.
Membership Dues and Certification Fees
Payment must be submitted in full with your application.
- Certification and ASHA Membership: $490
- Certification without ASHA Membership: $446
Application Requirements and Checklist
- Applicants for ASHA certification in audiology (CCC-A)
- Applicants for ASHA certification in speech-language pathology (CCC-SLP)
Please make copies of your certification application materials before submitting them—ASHA does not provide copies of documents submitted for certification to licensing agencies.
Certification Timeline
Applications will only be processed once all documents are received. Please allow approximately 6-8 weeks for the initial review once your application materials and payment have been received at the ASHA National Office. Each time that you submit additional documents after the initial review (due to corrections or incomplete or missing documents), additional review time will be required. Certification cannot be awarded until we have verified that all requirements of the standards have been met. Your application for the CCC does not guarantee that you will be awarded the CCC.
