What is the CEAC?
The CEAC is a practical, professional training course in Chinese for agency-based study abroad advisers and student counsellors developed by ICEF in cooperation with BOSSA. The course is available online to agency student counsellors in a self-paced modular format. Participants who pass the CEAC formal test will receive a certificate from both ICEF and BOSSA, certifying them as China ICEF Trained Agent Counsellors (CITAC) and recognizing them internationally as qualified consultants for the international education industry.
What is a CITAC?
Candidates who successfully pass the CEAC formal test will obtain the status of China ICEF Trained Agent Counsellor (CITAC) and their names and agency details will be listed on the China ICEF Trained Agent Counsellor (CITAC) list.
What is PIER?
PIER – Professional International Education Resources – is a web-based portal providing information and training to individuals involved in international education. It consists of a substantial database of resources and news, and the PIER training courses. PIER links to relevant websites across the field of international education globally. PIER offers:
- Access to formal qualifications through a suite of competency-based courses at diploma and certificate III level.
- A growing database of information
- Access to professional networks worldwide
- News of professional development opportunities and conferences.
PIER also assists in connecting people across organisations and professional networks. The Education Agent Training Course (EATC) is contained within the wider group of PIER courses for international education professionals. The Education Agent Training Course (EATC) is specifically aimed at education agents who counsel and refer students to study in Australia. It is contained within the wider group of PIER courses for international education professionals, and is offered in partnership with Australia Education International (AEI) and the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). The PIER courses – diploma to certificate programmes in International Education Services – have been successfully delivered since July 2006.
What is the cost of the China Education Agent Course?
There is no cost to access the information and course materials.
The cost for the CEAC formal test is 1 300 Yuan, which allows candidates to have three attempts. Meaning if they do not pass on their first attempt, they still have two more chances to become qualified.
How does the formal CEAC test work?
It consists of 50 multiple-choice questions to be answered in a 90-minute time-frame. Candidates will not be tested on individual country information/regulations, only on all the other sections of the course. They can use personal notes or consult the CEAC course online during the test. However, they will not be allowed to phone anyone or ask other people for assistance.
Where can I take the formal CEAC test and how much does it cost?
Testing and assessment sessions take place all around China.
To schedule a testing option, please email ceac@bossacn.org to reserve your testing slot.
The cost for the CEAC formal test is 1 300 Yuan, which allows candidates to have three attempts. Meaning if they do not pass on their first attempt, they still have two more chances to become qualified.
We designed the self-assessment test as a practice exercise for ITAC candidates, so they can increase their odds of passing the formal test the first time they sit it.
What is the self-assessment and why should I take it?
To prepare for the formal CEAC test, we recommend that you take the self-assessment (see the right-hand bar on your CEAC home page after login). This self-assessment test is identical in structure to the formal test. Each question has only one correct answer, and all questions are based on the CEAC course which you have studied.
At the end of the self-assessment, you will receive your result. We encourage only those who pass the self-assessment to attempt the formal test. The pass mark is 80%. Until you have reached a good result on the self-assessment, please keep practising.
We designed the self-assessment test as a practise exercise for CEAC candidates, so they can increase their odds of passing the formal test the first time they sit for it.
Certification: Will my company/agency be certified or just the person who takes the CEAC test?
The person who takes the test will be certified and will receive the CITAC Designation (China ICEF Trained Agent Counsellor) with a certificate from ICEF and BOSSA and a personal CITAC number. This person will continue being certified even if he/she changes jobs/agencies.
How long is this certification valid for?
There is no expiry for the CEAC Certification. If the course is updated or upgraded, CITACs will be notified via email.
If I fail the test do I have to pay the testing fee?
Yes, there is a testing fee regardless of whether you pass or fail.
How/when will I know I have passed the test?
You will be automatically notified of your (pass/fail) result as soon as you have finished your test. If you have passed, you will receive your CITAC Certificate and personal CITAC number shortly after.
If I fail the test do I have to pay the testing fee?
Yes, there is a testing fee regardless of whether you pass or fail. This fee covers three testing attempts.
If I fail the test when can I take it again and do I have to pay?
When you sign up for the test and pay the fee of 1 300 Yuan, you have up to three opportunities to successfully complete the test.
Can I take the test if I am not a student recruitment agent?
Yes, anyone interested in CITAC Certification and recognition can take the test.
Do I have to take the test once I have completed the course information?
You have one year in which to take the formal test after starting to study the course. If you wish to take the formal test and receive the CITAC Designation, please try (and pass) the self-assessment test first.
