NOTE: Effective Nov. 15, 2008...the Group 1 exam will be one and a half hour long,
Under the SES contract, ETA has as long as 60 days to provide the grades to SES. This allows for surges in the numbers taking exams and a statistical review of the responses to newly added questions. This can result in delays as SES reevaluates the question. Exams are graded in the order taken and returned to ETA. Usually we complete the grading process within 30 days and send the grades to SES. If there is no backlog, results may go out sooner. SES does not have any grades until we send them. SES is responsible for informing Applicants at that point. In order to improve accuracy ETA double grades each paper that is within a few points of passing.
There are a few things that can slow a grade from getting back to the applicant. These include illegible email addresses, incorrect addresses, or a failed payment. Failed payments include incorrect credit cards or checks that bounce. Of these the illegible email address, is by far the most common. Downloading the PDF file from this website, filling it in on your office computer, printing it, and sending the printed copy can prevent major problems.
What is required for qualification?
You must complete and submit the SES Qualification Registration Form
showing that you meet the current requirements of the society for
qualification. Please refer to the SES page for the most current form
and requirements.
During the exams, the candidate may use any written documents including
copies of published test methods, test method support materials such QA
Manuals, engineering manuals, calculation sheets with or without hand
written notes or reference tabs, or other technical reference materials.
The candidate is not allowed to use computers, including laptops, or
cell phones, Blackberrys, or other electronic imaging or communications
devices during the exams.
Who may take an exam?
Anyone who is a member in good standing of SES or pays the non SES member fee.
Taking an exam is completely voluntary.
How do I study for an examination?
Your two years experience should prepare you for most of the exam questions. In addition
to that valuable experience, you should read over each of the methods on the test paying
attention to any methods you do not have experience with.
In the case of alternate methods such as Method 5A, pay close attention to the
differences between the main method and alternates.
SES has provided a study guide to prospective individuals. To view the guide, click HERE .
What is the exam procedure?
NOTE: Effective Nov. 15, 2008...the Group 1 exam will be one and a half hour long,
How can I use an outside proctor?
Some people have found that an independent proctor works better for their scheduling. If that is something you wish to pursue,
please contact ETA. Please provide: your address, an approximate number of examinees,
a max number of exams for any given examinee, and an approximate date for scheduling.
We have a growing list of approved proctors across the country. This info will help us to locate a proctor in your area.
Some proctors can come to your facility, others you will have to travel to them.
Proctor fees vary WIDELY. You contact and pay ETA, we pay the proctor. You will have to pay the proctor's fees, and a fee to ETA. The ETA fee
($100 the 1st time we use a proctor, $50 thereafter) is to cover our time locating and approving the proctor, scheduling, and shipping the materials back and forth.
The proctor fees are typically charged separately (if paying by credit card) from the exam fees. You will receive an email receipt for any credit card charges.
Is there a certificate awarded?
A wall certificate will be provided upon SES QSTI Qualification.
SES issues a certificate for each group you have qualified.
How long does qualification last?
Qualification lasts for 5 years from date of successful completion of a specialty examination.
What do I bring to the examination?
ETA will only conduct fully proctored exams with
identified applicants.
Each applicant will be required to show a government
issue photo ID to receive and take an examination.
Recommended ID includes State Drivers License or Passport.
If you are planing on using a different photo ID,
please check with ETA prior to traveling to the exam.
During the exams, the candidate may use any written documents including
copies of published test methods, test method support materials such QA
Manuals, engineering manuals, calculation sheets with or without hand
written notes or reference tabs, or other technical reference materials.
Applicants may use a calculator. It may be programable.
The candidate is not allowed to use computers, including laptops, or
cell phones, Blackberrys, or other electronic imaging or communications
devices during the exams.
You cannot bring any copy or parts of copies of
previous SES QSTI exams.
No beepers are allowed to be on while
in the examination room.
How and when do I pay?
Payment is required prior to taking any examination. Payment may be in the form
of check, cash, or credit card. ETA accepts Visa, Master Card, and AMEX.
What if I pay and cannot attend?
If you pay by credit card and cannot attend, you will recieve an e-mail. The funds may be transferred to another location and date or credited back to your account.
If you have paid with a check, you will be issued a credit letter. Please respond to the letter with your preference of fund transfer options.
What if I fail?
If you fail to make a passing grade....
You must wait at least thirty days to re-take the exam.
If the exam is in its two months of introduction, re-examination is at no additional charge if you can attend one of our smoke school locations or are willing to pay for the proctor at your location.
Is there a fee charged for reexamination?
A fee is charged for each re-examination. It is the same fee as
taking the exam the first time....with one exception...That exception
is for persons who are not members of SES when they take the first
exam. The fee schedule is the same as for SES members. The fee covers
the administrative overhead for conducting and grading the exam and SES
administrative costs.
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What Methods are included each Group?
The SES is responsible for all group questions. The current list of methods included in
each group may be found on the SES website. Click HERE