Certification for Individuals

Certified Organizational Ombuds Designation

Stand Out to Make a Difference!

Are you interested in taking your role as organizational ombuds to a new level by becoming certified through the International Ombuds Association? This exciting new option — the only certification credential offered for the organizational ombuds — is designed to help you:

Gain Recognition: Enhance your credibility and professional standing with the organization(s) that you serve.
Invest in Your Career: Demonstrate your professional experience and skills to build your career development opportunities.
Show Commitment: Accentuate your dedication to the profession, and the IOA Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
Distinguish Yourself: Stand out by joining an elite community of professionals.
Strengthen and Professionalize the Organizational Ombuds field.

How to Apply to Become a Certified Organizational Ombuds

Step 1: Practical Experience

The first step of the process is gaining practical experience by accumulating 2,000 hours as an organizational ombuds. You may accumulate hours over the course of a year or, for part-time ombuds, over a four-year period.

Step 2: Exam

Once you have accumulated 2,000 hours of experience, you must apply to take the exam, which may be taken online or, if available, at a testing center. There are no longer "windows" to take the exam; the exam is open and available based on your timing needs.

The certification application requires a copy of the certification examination results statement documenting the date of passing the examination. Passing the exam is only one piece of the process to become certified.

Take the Certification Exam

Step 3: Application

Once you have passed the exam, you may submit an application that will be reviewed by the Eligibility Commiittee. The application includes educational requirements, references, ethical components, case scenarios and will assess skill and competency in the following areas: Conflict Management (Interpersonal, Intra, and Organizational), Trend/thematic identification, informal inquiry, personal integrity, professional integrity, recognition of personal bias, relationship development and management, effective communication, global and culture effectiveness, and ability to instill trust, demonstrates patience, ask the right question, and actively listen.

All applicants for the Certified Organizational Ombuds designation must submit a complete application packet and pay the nonrefundable administrative application fee of $250 USD for IOA Members and $450 for Non-Members. The complete application packet consists of the online application form, proof of passing the certification exam, and any supporting documents. Any supplemental materials must be attached to the online application form. You can find all that is required for the application here.

Application fee: $250 USD for IOA Members and $450 for Non-Members

Prepare for Your Certification Application

Step 4: Application Review

The Eligibility Committee may schedule an interview or call with any applicant. They will also endeavor to notify applicants of their final determination within 90 days of receiving a complete application packet. While not the goal, timing may take longer if several applications have been filed at the same time. Official notification of certification status will be sent to the applicant via email. IOA reserves the right to return all incomplete applications.

**Please note - this certification is available to those currently practicing as an organizational ombuds. It is not a baseline exam testing skills and knowledge for those interested in becoming an ombuds.