Exams

Exams

The international and regional exams focus on the kinds of information crop advisers work with every day: nutrient management, soil, and water management, crop management, and integrated pest management.

The international exam was developed by agriculture professionals, in cooperation with the Educational Testing Service. The regional MACCA exams focus on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Nutrient Management, two issues of importance in the Mid-Atlantic region. The IPM exam has been prepared by regional specialists and relates to general IPM principles, weeds, plant diseases, and insect problems in the Mid-Atlantic area. MACCA uses approved state-certified programs for the nutrient management portion of the exam.

Registration is always open!

The International CCA and Mid-Atlantic CCA exams are both continuous open enrollment. Once you register you have 60 days to take the exam.

Parkland College Course

The Certified Crop Adviser Preparation course from Parkland College is completely online. Individuals may now register for the next session, which works toward preparing for the February international exam.

The course consists of an online curriculum, pre-recorded classroom sessions, and webinars. The facilitator, Thom Weir, has a degree in Agriculture and has practiced agronomy for over 40 years. He has been a Certified Crop Adviser since 1997.

Here is what the students have to say: “Great course to take. You have to put the time and effort into it to keep on pace. Lots of information with good questions at the end of each chapter. This will help you prepare for the exam as the test is all multiple choice.” – Damon Paley

“The course was very beneficial in helping me pass my CCA. Thom Weir did a great job presenting useful information and was always available to answer any questions that we had.” Taylor Procyshen

To receive a detailed information sheet and/or to register, please call (306) 745-2878 or email m.kaeding@parklandcollege.sk.ca

Upcoming Exams

CCA Exam Registration for the International, Local Board, Manure Management, 4R Nutrient Management Specialist (4R NMS), Resistance Management Specialist (RMS), and Sustainability Specialist (SSp) certifications.

Emails have been sent to those who need to retake an exam and marketed to certified individuals for the specialty exams. All registration, Performance Objectives, study materials and workshops are posted here.

CCA exams are now administered via a remote proctor! 

What does this mean for you?

You are now able to take the exam in the comfort of your own home or office.
You are now able to take the exam when it best fits your schedule.

Once registered you will receive more information regarding how to schedule your exam.

To take the exam you will need the following:

Desktop computer or laptop computer (iPads, Chromebooks, tablets and smartphones do not meet our requirements).
A working built-in or external webcam and microphone.
A quiet and clean space where there will be no interruptions.
Internet speed must be at least 2 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload. Hot spots are not recommended.
Test internet speed at: http://www.speedtest.net
A calculator will be provided.
You are allowed one blank piece of scratch paper.  You will be required to show the paper to the proctor.

More Questions regarding remote proctored exams?
Check out our Remote Proctor Frequently Asked Questions page or this video.

Specialty Exam Certification

Registration deadlines, performance objectives, and webinar information for Resistance Management Specialty (RMS), Sustainability Specialty (SSp), and 4R Nutrient Management Specialist (4R NMS), can be found here. Only one specialty exam may be taken each exam date.

For specific states’ times, click exam times.

*WV exam availability is based on interest.

View register information, glossary, and FAQs. You can also sign up for email announcements of the next registration date.

Study Materials and Training

International and Regional Performance Objectives describe what is covered on exams and define the minimum skills and knowledge necessary to become a CCA.

The ongoing training through the MACCA program will help to demonstrate that the agricultural industry prides itself on high standards of professionalism and knowledge. Many educational meetings that crop advisers traditionally attend may be eligible for continuing education credit approval.

The International Plant Nutrition Institute offers manuals and decision-making guides on plant nutrition and best management practices. More information can be found here.

Nutrient Management

To become certified in the Mid-Atlantic region, you can pass any of the four-state nutrient management exams in DE, MD, VA & WV. It is the participant’s responsibility to sign up for the exam directly with the state agency and to report your passing scores to the CCA program.

DELAWARE • MARYLAND • VIRGINIA • WEST VIRGINIA

Contact information for nutrient management programs can be found here.