The LEED Accredited Professional Building Design and Construction AP BD+C certification is a valuable credential for professionals in the building industry. It demonstrates expertise in sustainable building practices and the ability to guide project teams toward LEED certification. Preparing for this exam requires a solid study plan and effective strategies. In this guide, we will discuss ten essential study tips to help you succeed in obtaining your LEED AP BD+C certification.
What Is the LEED AP BD+C Exam?
The LEED AP BD+C specialty exam evaluates the expertise and abilities required to engage in the design process, promote and facilitate integrated design, and simplify the application and certification procedures.
LEED AP Exam Formats & Procedures:
Fees:
- Combined Exam: $550 (or $400 for USGBC members)
- Specialty Only: $350 (or $250 for USGBC members)
LEED AP BD+C Prerequisites/Eligibility Requirements:
- Must hold a current LEED Green Associate credential (or pass that exam concurrently)
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Experience working on LEED-registered projects is highly recommended
Format:
- Combined Exam: 100 multiple-choice questions per section
- Specialty Only: 100 multiple-choice questions
Exams can be taken at a Prometric Testing Center or remotely as an online proctored exam
Language:
Translation aids available in Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese, French, and Spanish for the BD+C and O+M exams
Scoring:
A passing score is 170 out of 200
Rescheduling and Cancellations:
Allowed up to 3 days before the exam
Additional fees may apply
AP BD+C Exam Knowledge Domains:
- Project Surroundings and Public Outreach (4 Questions)
- Indoor Environmental Quality (11 Questions)
- Materials and Resources (12 Questions
- Energy and Atmosphere (14 Questions)
- Water Efficiency (9 Questions)
- Sustainable Sites (9 Questions)
- Location and Transportation (9 Questions)
- Integrative Strategies (9 Questions)
- LEED Process (8 Questions)
Exam Results:
LEED professional exams are scored on a scale from 125 to 200, with a minimum score of 170 required to pass. Your score will be displayed on-screen at the conclusion of the exam, and a detailed score report will be sent to you via email.
For LEED AP combined exams, a passing score of 170 or higher is required on both sections to achieve the credential. Within 72 hours of your exam, your results are processed, your Credentials account is updated, and, if applicable, your credential will be reflected in the USGBC directory.
Here Are the Study Tips to Pass the LEED AP BD+C Exam:
1. Get Well Versed with the LEED AP BD+C Exam:
- Understanding the structure of the LEED AP BD+C exam is the first step toward effective preparation. The exam is divided into two parts: the LEED Green Associate section and the BD+C specialty section. Each part includes multiple-choice questions designed to test your knowledge of green building practices and the LEED rating system.
- Familiarizing yourself with the question types and time constraints will help you navigate the exam confidently and manage your time efficiently.
2. Dive into the LEED Reference Guide:
- The LEED Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction is an indispensable resource for exam preparation. It provides detailed explanations of credit categories, prerequisites, and credits in the LEED BD+C rating system.
- Thoroughly review each section, focusing on the key concepts, requirements, and documentation procedures. Make summary notes and highlight crucial points to enhance your understanding and retention of the material.
3. Set A Well Structured Study Plan:
- Creating a well-organized study plan is essential for covering all the necessary material systematically. Assign specific times for each topic, ensuring you balance your study sessions across different credit categories.
- Consistent, daily study sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming. Set achievable goals and milestones to monitor your progress and stay motivated throughout your preparation period.
4. Study with Peers:
- Studying with peers can significantly enhance your learning experience. Join a study group or find a study partner to discuss concepts, share resources, and quiz each other.
- Group studies offer diverse perspectives and can help clarify complex topics. Moreover, explaining concepts to others is a powerful way to reinforce your knowledge and improve your retention.
5. Gauge Your Readiness with AP BD+C Practice Tests:
- Practice exams are vital tools for preparing for the LEED AP BD+C exam. They familiarize you with the exam format, help you gauge your knowledge, and identify areas for improvement.
- Many online platforms and study guides offer practice exams specifically designed for the LEED AP BD+C certification. Regular practice will boost your confidence and improve your time management skills during the actual exam.
6. Emphasize Core Concepts:
- While the LEED Reference Guide covers a broad range of topics, focusing on core concepts is crucial for efficient studying. Pay particular attention to fundamental principles such as sustainable site development, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality.
- Mastering these core concepts will significantly increase your chances of answering exam questions correctly.
7. Reinforce Your Knowledge with Practice Tests:
- Flashcards are an excellent tool for quick reviews and memorization. Create flashcards for important terms, definitions, and key points from each credit category.
- Regularly review these flashcards to reinforce your memory. They are portable and can be used during short breaks, making them a convenient study aid.
8. Attend LEED Educational Events:
- Participating in LEED workshops and webinars can provide valuable insights and deepen your understanding of the material. These events often feature industry experts who share their knowledge and offer practical exam tips.
- Workshops and webinars also offer opportunities for hands-on learning and networking with other professionals in the field.
9. Explore Online Study Resources:
- A wealth of online resources is available to supplement your study efforts. Websites, forums, and online courses dedicated to LEED AP BD+C certification provide study guides, practice questions, and interactive learning tools.
- Utilize these resources to gain different perspectives and deepen your understanding of complex topics.
10. Stay Positive and Take Care of Yourself:
- Maintaining a positive attitude and taking care of your physical and mental well-being are crucial during your exam preparation. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat healthily, and take breaks to relax and recharge.
- Stress can hinder your ability to concentrate and retain information, so find ways to manage stress effectively, such as through exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
Bottom Line:
Preparing for the LEED AP BD+C certification exam requires dedication, organization, and effective study strategies. By understanding the exam format, utilizing key resources like the LEED Reference Guide, and employing techniques such as creating a structured study plan, participating in group studies, and taking practice exams, you can enhance your chances of success. With these tips, you will be well-prepared to achieve your LEED AP BD+C certification and advance your career in sustainable building practices.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the fee for the LEED AP BD+C exam?
A1: The fee for the combined LEED AP BD+C exam is $550, or $400 for USGBC members. For the specialty-only exam, the fee is $350, or $250 for USGBC members.
Q2. What are the prerequisites for taking the LEED AP BD+C exam?
A2: To take the LEED AP BD+C exam, you must hold a current LEED Green Associate credential or pass that exam concurrently. Additionally, you must be 18 years or older, and experience with LEED-registered projects is strongly recommended.
Q3. How is the exam structured?
A3: The combined LEED AP BD+C exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions per section. The specialty-only exam also comprises 100 multiple-choice questions. You can choose to take the exam at a Prometric Testing Center or remotely as an online proctored exam.
Q4. Are translation aids available for the LEED AP BD+C exam?
A4: Yes, translation aids are available for the LEED AP BD+C exam in Arabic, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese, French, and Spanish.
Q5. What is the passing score for the LEED AP BD+C exam?
A5: A passing score for the LEED AP BD+C exam is 170 out of 200.
Q6. How and when will I receive my LEED AP BD+C exam results?
A6: Your LEED AP BD+C exam score will be displayed on-screen at the end of the exam, and a detailed score report will be emailed to you. Your exam results will be processed, and your Credentials account updated within 72 hours of your appointment.
Q7. What experience is recommended before taking the LEED AP BD+C exam?
A7: It is strongly recommended to have experience working on LEED-registered projects before taking the LEED AP BD+C exam to enhance your understanding and readiness.
Q8. Where can I take the LEED AP BD+C exam?
A8: You can take the LEED AP BD+C exam at a Prometric Testing Center or from home as a remote proctored online exam.
Q9. Where can i get practice tests for the LEED AP BD+C exam?
A9. ProcessExam offers one of the most relevant practice tests for the AP BD+C exam, and it offers almost 130+ questions.
