How to Apply & FAQs » Frequently Asked Questions
Application Process
General Inquires
How do I know when it is time for me to reapply?
A broadcast email is sent out to all ecologists who should reapply to continue their certification. You can expect this email between September and October of the year before your certification expires. Please be sure to keep a current email address on file with ESA so that we may contact you. I let my certification lapse and I wish to continue my certification.
Which application form do I use?
If less than a year has elapsed since your certification expired and you wish to continue at the same level, you may complete a Recertification form and note the lapse in your cover letter. If approved, your certification will be retroactive to the year in which your certification expired, and you will need to apply for recertification in four years rather than five.
If more than a year has elapsed since your certification expired, or you wish to apply at a higher level, please complete a New Certification form.
Application Forms
How many copies of my form does ESA need?
How many copies of my form does ESA need?
If you are submitting by mail, please send your original application plus 8 additional copies. These copies should include your cover letter and CV. Only one copy of any supplemental materials or letters of recommendation is required. Please leave the Application Fee Section blank on all copies but the original. If submitting online, only one copy of all materials is required.
How do I handle the Membership verification section if
I don’t have a membership ID?
Send a copy of your membership payment. If there is no proof of
membership, you will be invoiced for the difference of non-member
versus ESA member rate. (As membership is a requirement for the
Streamline process, please confirm your membership status before
applying with this method.)
Streamlined Process
I am currently certified under Ecologist level and I am
interested in applying under the Streamlined Process. Do I use the
Streamlined form even though I am applying at a higher level?
Yes. On the Streamlined forms there will be a new section
for you to indicate if your application is a new one or if it
is a recertification at higher level.
Deadlines
What happens to my application if it is received after February 1st?
All applications post-marked before February 1st will be accepted.
Those post-marked between February 2nd and March 31st will be accepted
and charged/ invoiced a late fee of $25. Any applications post-marked
after March 31st will be returned to the applicant.
If my recommendation letters are not submitted before the March 31st
deadline, how does that affect my application process?
If the letters are received before the Certification Board meets
to review the applications, the letters will be considered. (If
you suspect your letters will not arrive before the 4/15
deadline, please contact Rachel Dellon by phone (202) 833-8773
or email rachel@esa.org. However,
if the letter(s) is/are received after the first meeting it/they
will not be considered. The only possible exception is if the Board
needs more information and the letter(s) is/are received before
the second review of your application.
Thank you for your interest in our certification program and we look forward to your application.
