NCIDQ Exam Preparation

This guide was created to provide students and alumni with information on NCIDQ exam preparation. Navigate this guide using the topics on the left.

What is the NCIDQ Exam?

What is NCIDQ Certification?

What does the NCIDQ Exam cover?

The NCIDQ Exam consists of 3 parts.

• The IDFX, or Interior Design Fundamentals Exam, is a computerized multiple-choice exam with 125 questions related to building systems and construction, programming, site analysis, human behavior and the designed environment, construction drawing and specifications, and more.
• The IDPX, or Interior Design Professional Exam, is a computerized multiple-choice exam with 175 questions related to codes and standards, building systems and integration, project coordination, professional and business practices, and more.
• The Practicum (PRAC) is a 4-hour exam that covers contract documents, building systems and integration, programming and site analysis, and codes and standards. New in Fall 2017, the Practicum is a computerized exam.

When can I take the NCIDQ Exam?

You can apply to take the IDFX as soon as you complete you interior design degree from DISD. You do not need to have any work experience to take the IDFX.

You can apply to take the IDPX and Practicum after you have completed your degree, passed the IDFX, and worked 3,520 qualifying work experience hours. Up to half of these hours can be earned while you are a student; at least half must be earned after you complete your degree. Alternately, if you have completed your education AND all of your supervised work experience, you can apply for approval to take all three test sections at once.

How do I sign up to take the NCIDQ Exam?

When and where is the NCIDQ Exam offered?

You must apply AND have your application approved several months in advance: by January 15 for the spring exam, and by July 15 for the fall exam.

How much does it cost to take the NCIDQ Exam?

The application fees range from $95 to $225, depending on which sections you are applying to take; these fees cover the cost of reviewing applications to ensure eligibility. The fees to take the exam range from $295 to $450, again depending on the section you are taking. There are additional fees for late registration, registration changes, and cancellations.

IIDA Associate Members in good standing may apply for financial assistance upon passing all three parts of the NCIDQ Exam.

Where can I learn more?