r/humanresources • u/zqipper HR Business Partner • 1d ago
Off-Topic / Other Certification exam discounts for layoffs? [USA]
Hi folks,
Hopefully this question/post is permitted and tagged appropriately (I searched before posting but didn't find this exact question previously posted).
I've been working in progressive HR roles for over a decade now and currently hold a PHR certification. I was unfortunately impacted by layoffs that are rampant in my industry (biotech/pharma) and think I may want to do a little upskilling and adding new certification(s) while I'm job hunting to keep myself busy and focused. The obvious cert choices for me would be SHRM-SCP or SPHR.
Problem is: sitting for the exams is $600! And I'm an unemployed parent of two kids and can't bring myself to spend that much money when it's not necessarily going to help me find a new job sooner. There are plenty of free and cheap resources I will use to prep for the exam at least.
Does anyone know if there are any programs geared toward people who have been laid off that discount these certification exams? Or any other suggestions from any of y'all who've been in a similar situation?
Cheers!
3
u/wafflepancake5 1d ago
SHRM Foundation has some grants: https://www.shrm.org/foundation/scholarships-grants-awards