Certification Testing Policy

• Each certification requires a written and/or performance-based examination that measures student competency or proficiency in the certification area.

• Certificates are only awarded when a student demonstrates the required level of skill or knowledge.

• Examinations must be developed by the certifying agency (USI) and administered according to the procedures established by that agency.

• Written examinations must be proctored by a third party who is not the individual providing direct instruction for the certification.

• Performance-based competency examinations must be independently evaluated by an individual other than the student’s direct instructor.

• Examination materials must be delivered in a secure manner and remain in the proctor’s possession only for the time necessary to receive, administer, and return the materials to the scoring entity.

• All written examinations must be scored by the certifying agency or an approved vendor (GMetrix) of that agency.

• Exams may not be scored by any representative of the school district or by the examinee.

• Written exams may not be proctored by the individual who provided direct instruction for the industry certification.

• If the only individual authorized by the certifying agency to serve as proctor is also the instructor, and only one eligible proctor is available at the school, the following must occur:

• A second individual who does not provide direct instruction must independently monitor the testing session.

• All written exams must be administered following the certifying agency’s official procedures.

• Exam questions and materials must be delivered and stored securely.

• Paper-based exams may only be handled by the proctor for the limited time required to conduct and return the assessment to the scoring entity.

1. A candidate may not attempt the same industry certification examination more than three (3) times during a single year.
2. A minimum of twenty (20) calendar days must pass between test administrations.
3. If a test attempt is invalidated by the certifying agency due to a testing irregularity not caused by student misconduct, the district may authorize a retest prior to the 20-day waiting period.

USI Certification Exam Accommodation Policy

Effective Date: 7/1/25
Last Reviewed: 10/31/25

Purpose

This policy ensures that candidates with disabilities have equitable access to USI certification exams in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and applicable Florida CAPE requirements.

Scope

This policy applies to all candidates seeking certification through USI who require testing accommodations due to a documented disability.

Policy Statement

USI is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities to ensure fair and accessible certification testing. Accommodations are determined on a case-by-case basis and are designed to allow the candidate to demonstrate their knowledge and skills without compromising the integrity of the examination.

Available Accommodations

Examples of accommodations include, but are not limited to:

• Extended time for testing
• A separate, quiet testing room
• Use of screen readers or other assistive technology
• Breaks during the exam
• Alternative formats (e.g., large print, Braille)

Request Process

1. Initiate Request:
   Candidates must submit a request for accommodations at least 30 calendar days before their planned test date.
2. Documentation Requirements:
   Requests must include documentation from a qualified professional (e.g., physician, psychologist, or licensed diagnostician) that:
   • Describes the nature of the disability
   • Explains the functional limitations relevant to testing
   • Recommends specific accommodations with rationale
3. Submission:
   Requests should be submitted via email to Support@FlyUSI.org with the subject line: Accommodation Request – Certification Exam
4. Review Process:
   • USI will review the documentation within 10 business days of receipt.
   • Additional information may be requested to support the accommodation decision.
   • Approved accommodations will be confirmed in writing.
5. Appeals:
   If a request is denied, candidates may appeal the decision in writing within 10 business days of notification. Appeals are reviewed by USI’s certification compliance team.

Confidentiality

All accommodation requests and supporting documentation are kept confidential and used solely to determine eligibility for exam accommodations.

Questions or Support

For assistance or questions regarding accommodations, contact:

📧 Support@FlyUSI.org
📞 1-877-535-SAFE (7233)