CPI Study Plan: 10-Week Schedule
Week-by-week preparation for the CPI exam
Use this flexible 10-week plan to cover the major CPI content areas, practice retrieval, and reserve time for targeted remediation. Adjust the pace to your experience and official testing date.
Weeks 1–2: Scientific concepts and research design
Review the corresponding content outline, take concise notes, complete practice questions, and maintain an error log. Revisit missed concepts before moving forward.
Weeks 3–4: Ethical and participant safety considerations
Review the corresponding content outline, take concise notes, complete practice questions, and maintain an error log. Revisit missed concepts before moving forward.
Weeks 5–6: Product development and regulation
Review the corresponding content outline, take concise notes, complete practice questions, and maintain an error log. Revisit missed concepts before moving forward.
Weeks 7–8: Clinical trial operations and Study and site management and Data management and informatics
Review the corresponding content outline, take concise notes, complete practice questions, and maintain an error log. Revisit missed concepts before moving forward.
Weeks 9–10: Comprehensive review and timed practice
Review the corresponding content outline, take concise notes, complete practice questions, and maintain an error log. Revisit missed concepts before moving forward.
Tips
- Use the current official exam content outline as your master checklist
- Schedule short, consistent study blocks
- Practice application and clinical judgment, not memorization alone
- Complete at least one timed mixed-domain practice session
- Confirm current exam policies with the certifying organization
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administers the CPI certification?
The CPI credential is administered by Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). Candidates should always confirm current eligibility, fees, testing windows, and policies with the certifying organization.
Who is this study guide for?
This guide is written for eligible clinical investigators preparing for ACRP CPI certification.
How should I use the practice questions?
Use them diagnostically: identify weak domains, review the underlying concept, and revisit missed questions until you can explain why each answer choice is correct or incorrect.