SLP-A (ASHA) - Certified Speech Language Pathology Assistant

The SLPA certification is designed for support personnel who work under the supervision of a certified speech-language pathologist (SLP). This certification recognizes individuals who have met specific educational, training, and ethical standards to provide speech and language therapy services.

Completion Time: 2.5 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• Completion of an Associate’s degree in a speech-language pathology assistant program or a Bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders (or a related field) from an accredited institution.

• Completion of required fieldwork or clinical experience under the supervision of a certified SLP.

• Adherence to ASHA’s Code of Ethics.

• Successful completion of a national examination in speech-language pathology assistance, if required.

Exam Format

The SLPA is a computer-based exam that includes 132 multiple-choice questions. 

Prometric offers the exam and can be taken at testing centers throughout the United States or online through live proctoring.

Certification Process

Complete the necessary educational qualifications.

Gain required supervised fieldwork or clinical experience.

Apply for the SLPA certification through ASHA.

Register for and successfully pass the national examination with a minimum score of 162.

SLPA certification requires renewal every 3 years.

Renewal involves completing continuing education credits in speech-language pathology and related areas.

Continuing education for SLPAs may include topics such as speech and language disorders, treatment techniques, ethical practice, and working with diverse populations.

For specific information regarding Certified Speech-Language Pathology Assistant certification, including detailed application processes, examination content, and guidelines for maintaining certification, it is recommended to consult directly with the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). ASHA provides comprehensive resources, standards, and guidelines for speech-language pathology assistants.

Career Opportunities

SLPA-certified professionals work in various settings, including schools, private practices, hospitals, and clinics.

They assist SLPs in providing therapy services, preparing materials, conducting screenings, and documenting client progress.

The ASHA also offers the following certifications:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A)

• Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)

Other related certifications include the Clinical Fellowship Year Speech Language Pathologist (CFY-SLP).