CBIC has updated the CIC® content outline following a formal Practice/Job Task Analysis in 2026. The revised outline reflects the knowledge, skills, and abilities that infection prevention and control professionals need today.
What is the CIC® Beta Exam?
The CIC® Beta Exam is the first administration of the CIC® examination based on the updated content outline. Candidates who pass the exam earn the CIC® credential under the same standards as any other administration of the exam. During the beta period, CBIC analyzes candidate performance data to confirm that each question functions as intended and to establish the passing standard for the updated examination. Results will be released once this analysis is complete, around the beginning of June 2027. Beta candidates receive a 25% discount on the application fee.
A CIC® Practice Test is also available through the CBIC Certification Center for candidates who want to prepare for the examination.
Why is the CIC® Exam Changing?
CBIC updates the CIC® Examination Content Outline every 5-7 years, based on the results of a formal Practice/Job Task Analysis, which surveys practicing infection preventionists to ensure the exam reflects current, real-world practice.
What is not changing?
The exam format is unchanged. The CIC® remains an objective, multiple-choice exam containing 150 questions, 135 of which are scored.
To see exactly what has changed, review the updated CIC® Content Outline and the CIC® Content Outline Summary of Updates.
Important CIC® Transition Dates:
How to Plan Around the Beta Testing Window
If you apply as a beta candidate, you must be available to take the examination during the March 1–April 9, 2027, testing window.
Beta candidates cannot request an eligibility extension if they are unable to test during this period. CBIC recommends that candidates who are unavailable during the beta testing window apply under the current CIC® content outline before November 10, 2026, or wait until the CIC® application reopens following the beta transition.
For more information, visit the CIC® Exam page on the CBIC website.