If you would like to apply for CAWA Certification eligibility, please click on the "Register" button in the upper right corner of your screen.  Once you've registered, click on the Application Form, download the form and complete it as instructed.  When you have all of your supporting information in file format, go to the Submit Application tab and upload your files and your form.  You must Register first, before you are able to submit your files.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility requirements must be met, without exception in any circumstances. To be eligible to take the CAWA exam, applicants must satisfy all of the following requirements by the date of application:

1. A minimum of 5 years of work experience, within 10 years prior to the date of CAWA Program application, as a high-level manager of a not-for-profit or government organization, of which at least 3 years of work experience must be at an organization that provides sheltering and/or field services for animals. A “high-level manager” is defined as either a CEO or other paid staff who are within the following degrees of separation from the CEO:
   • 2 Degrees, in organizations with fewer than 250 full-time equivalents (FTEs)
   • 3 Degrees, in organizations with 251-500 FTEs; and
   • 4 Degrees, in organizations with 501 or more FTEs.
2. A minimum of 5 years of work experience managing paid staff in any field. Work experience satisfying requirements above can be concurrent. Educational experience may not be used to substitute for any of the work  experience eligibility requirements.
3. Agree to abide by The Association of Animal Welfare Advancement Code of Ethics.

There is no requirement of an academic degree or continuing education activity for initial certification eligibility. Eligibility to take the CAWA exam shall be valid for one year from the date of the eligibility notice.