Preparing for the ISA Certified Arborist Exam: What to Know
The ISA Certified Arborist Exam isn’t something to take lightly. You’ve spent years climbing, pruning, or consulting, and this test is your chance to validate your skills.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the full certified arborist process, from eligibility requirements to study materials. You’ll learn how the exam is taken, which resources are worth your time, and how to avoid the most common mistakes. With support from Joshua Tree Experts, you’ll be focused and prepared when exam day rolls around.
At Joshua Tree Experts, we’ve been working with trees—and future arborists—for nearly 20 years. Our ISA Certified tree care team offers trimming, pruning, removal, pest control, and more, keeping your lawn healthy and green year-round.
Eligibility Requirements to Meet Before Taking the ISA Certified Arborist Exam
Before you can sit for the ISA Certified Arborist Exam, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility requirements that prove you have hands-on experience or formal education in arboriculture. ISA checks that all applicants have a solid foundation in the field before approving their application.
You must have one or more of the following:
- At least three years of full-time, practical work experience in arboriculture
- A degree in arboriculture, horticulture, landscape architecture, or forestry from a regionally accredited educational institution
ISA Certified Arborist Exam Format & Structure
The ISA Certified Arborist Exam is a closed-book, multiple-choice test that measures your real-world knowledge of arboriculture with a variety of scenario-based questions. Here’s what you need to know about the exam:
- 200 multiple-choice questions
- 3.5-hour time limit
- Closed-book format
- Some questions include photos or illustrations
- Designed to test practical, field-based knowledge
- Scored using a scaled system set by ISA
Subtopics Covered In The Exam
The arborist exam covers a wide range of arboriculture topics to ensure you're well-rounded and capable of handling tree care challenges. Subjects include:
- Soil management
- Tree biology
- Tree identification and selection
- Installation and establishment
- Pruning
- Diagnosis and treatment
- Urban forestry
- Tree protection during site development
- Tree risk management
- Safe work practices
- Climbing and working in trees
- Plant health care
- Professional development and ethics
Exam Delivery Options: What You Can Choose From
There are two ways to take the ISA Certified Arborist Exam: a computer-based option or a paper-based version. Both test formats cover the same content, it's just a matter of what works best for your schedule and preferences.
Computer Based Exam
The computer-based exam is offered at Pearson VUE testing centers and allows you to choose your own date and location after ISA approves your application. You’ll receive your results immediately after finishing the test.
Paper-based Exam
The paper-based exam is administered in-person at pre-scheduled dates and locations set by ISA chapters or affiliated organizations. Results for this format typically take up to six weeks to be released.
Applying For The ISA Certified Arborist Exam
Before you can schedule your exam, you’ll need to submit an application through ISA and receive approval. Here’s how to apply:
- Submit your application through the ISA website (online or PDF format available)
- Provide proof of eligibility (work experience and/or degree)
- Pay the application fee:
- $150 for ISA and ISA RMC members
- $250 for non-members or members of only one organization
- Wait for application approval before scheduling your exam
- Choose between a computer-based or paper-based testing option once approved
Recommended Study Materials & Resources to Prepare With
When studying for your arborist exam, it’s best to stick with ISA-approved resources. These materials list best practices and cover the full range of topics you'll see on the exam.
The following study materials are recommended by the ISA:
- ISA Certified Arborist Study Guide (available through the ISA webstore)
- Certified Arborist Examination Outline (PDF) — provides a breakdown of all exam domains
- ISA Online Learning Center: Introduction to Arboriculture Training Series
- Includes 25 self-paced courses, over 750 quiz questions, and interactive learning tools
- Lesson review activities with instant feedback and glossaries
- Photos, diagrams, and videos that support different learning styles
- Audio-read text for those who prefer listening to content
All resources can be accessed or purchased through the official ISA store.
Tips for Passing the ISA Arborist Exam
Passing the ISA Certified Arborist Exam takes more than just memorizing facts; you’ll need to understand how to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
- Start early and build a consistent study schedule
- Use the Certified Arborist Exam Outline as your study guide
- Take practice quizzes to simulate the test experience
- Target your weak areas, but review all sections thoroughly
- Incorporate visuals and diagrams to reinforce concepts
- Study in focused, manageable sessions
- Join an online forum or study group to stay motivated
- Get a good night’s rest before exam day — don’t cram!
What Happens Next: Advancing Beyond Certified Arborist
Once you’ve earned your ISA Certified Arborist credential, you can take your career even further with advanced certifications. These allow you to focus on specialized areas of arboriculture or move into leadership roles.
Additional ISA credentials include:
- ISA Certified Arborist Municipal Specialist: for arborists working in urban forestry and municipal environments
- ISA Certified Arborist Utility Specialist: for those in utility vegetation management
- ISA Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist: for arborists performing tree work while climbing
- ISA Certified Tree Worker Aerial Lift Specialist: for arborists using aerial lift equipment in the field
- ISA Board Certified Master Arborist: the highest level of certification, recognizing top-tier expertise and professionalism in the industry
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to take the ISA Certified Arborist Exam?
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The exam costs $150 if you’re a member of both ISA and your local chapter (such as ISA RMC). If you’re a non-member or only belong to one organization, the fee is $250.
How long does it take to get results from the exam?
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If you take the computer-based exam, you’ll get your results immediately after completing it. For paper-based exams, it can take up to six weeks to receive your results.
How many times can you retake the exam?
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You can retake the exam if you don’t pass, but you’ll need to pay the exam fee again. ISA allows multiple retakes, though you may need to wait for the next available testing window.
Is the ISA Certified Arborist credential recognized globally?
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Yes, the ISA Certified Arborist credential is recognized internationally and accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board. It meets or exceeds ISO 17024 standards for certification bodies.
How long is the ISA Certified Arborist credential valid?
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The certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you must earn continuing education units (CEUs) or retake the exam before it expires.
Worried About Your Trees? Our Certified Arborists Have You Covered
Earning your arborist certification is a big step in your career, but when it comes to caring for your own trees, Joshua Tree Experts has you covered. Our ISA Certified Arborists have the training and experience to keep your trees healthy, safe, and thriving year-round.
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