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NCIDQ EXAMS -
IDFX + IDPX | Multiple Choice Exams
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Fundamentals Exam (IDFX)
What topics will be covered on the IDFX Exam?
The IDFX section examines knowledge and competency in: design communication – building systems and construction – programming and site analysis – construction drawings and specification – human behavior and the design environment – furniture, finishes, equipment, and lighting – technical drawing conventions. For the IDFX Exam Blueprint (exam content details), go to cidq.org/study.
Who should take the IDFX Exam?
All NCIDQ candidates are required to sit for the IDFX; however it is the one exam section that is available to individuals prior to earning work experience or at the beginning of their interior design career.
How soon can I take the IDFX Exam?
Individuals eligible for the IDFX include students (in their final year of a Bachelor or Master Interior Design program), recent graduates and emerging professionals with an applicable interior design degree.
How do I apply for the IDFX Exam?
There are two application options for the NCIDQ Exam: Route 2, Part 1: IDFX Only or Route 1: IDFX, IDPX, PRAC. Candidates should apply for the IDFX Only if they are still in the process of earning necessary work experience to qualify for the IDPX and Practicum sections of the exam. IDFX Only candidates are required to submit a second application at a later date, after work experience is earned, to be approved to sit for Route 2, Part 2 - PLUS: IDPX and PRAC Exam sections. Details are available at cidq.org/apply.
How long is the exam?
Candidates are given 3 hours to complete the computerized test. The IDFX Exam contains 125 multiple choice questions (100 scored and 25 unscored pilot questions).
Professional Exam (IDPX)
What topics will be covered on the IDPX Exam?
The IDPX section examines knowledge and competency in: professional practice – building systems and integration – contract administration – project coordination – contract documents – product and material coordination – codes and standards. For the IDPX Exam Blueprint (exam content details) go to cidq.org/study.
Who should take the IDPX Exam?
All NCIDQ Candidates are required to take and pass the IDPX, in addition to the IDFX (Fundamentals) and the PRAC (Practicum) sections, to earn an NCIDQ Certificate.
How soon can I take the IDPX Exam?
Verified education and work experience are required to confirm eligibility and earn approval to sit for the exam. Dependent upon the candidate’s degree, work experience requirements range from 3,520 hours (approximately 2 years full time) to 7,040 (approximately 4 years full time) to be eligible. For details on required work experience, go to cidq.org/eligibility-requirements.
How do I apply for the IDPX Exam?
Applicants who meet both the education and work experience requirements from the start should apply for Route 1: IDFX, IDPX, PRAC. Individuals who applied Route 2, Part 1: IDFX Only to start will reapply for Route 2, Part 2 - PLUS: IDPX|PRAC approval, including submitting final official education transcripts and work experience forms. Details are available at cidq.org/apply.
How long is the exam?
Candidates are given 4 hours to complete the computerized test. The IDPX Exam contains 175 multiple choice questions (150 scored and 25 unscored pilot questions).
FAQ's Applicable for both the IDFX and IDPX Exams
What certificate comes from sitting for the IDFX and IDPX exams?
Candidates must take and pass all three sections of the NCIDQ Exam, IDFX|IDPX|PRAC, within their specific eligibility timeline, in order to earn the NCIDQ Certificate. For timeline information go to: cidq.org/calendar.
How should I prepare for the IDFX and IDPX Exams?
While CIDQ cannot recommend any specific study guides or classes, there are resources available. Candidates may review the IDFX and IDPX Exam Blueprints, which outline test content. Information on potential local study groups available through IIDA, ASID, or IDC chapters can be found at cidq.org/study.
When are the exams offered?
NCIDQ Exams are offered the entire months of April and October.
Where are the exams offered?
Prometric Test Centers globally offer all three sections of the NCIDQ Exam (IDFX, IDPX and Practicum). The IDFX and IDPX exams are also offered via remote proctoring.