HRCP Program vs. SHRM Learning System: Which Exam Prep Is Right for You?
HRCP Program vs. SHRM Learning System: Which Exam Prep Is Right for You?
By Terri Varnell, SPHR, SPHRi, Chief Operating Officer, HRCP · Updated October 2026
This comparison is published by HRCP, an independent provider of HR certification preparation materials. We offer the HRCP Program discussed below. To help you compare your options, we’ve included SHRM’s published features and pricing, with links to the original sources.
The short answer
The HRCP Program is a lower-cost, independent alternative to the SHRM Learning System, now called the SHRM Certification Prep System.
HRCP’s Complete Program costs $270–$480 (Online, Print, or Print & Online) and prepares learners for the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP, and SHRM-SCP exams. All three formats include 2,150+ practice questions and 24 months of access to online practice exams; online study books, audio features, and the AI Virtual Assistant are included in the Online and Print & Online formats. It also includes the Guide for Successful Exam Preparation and sample study schedules.
SHRM’s Certification Prep System costs $820–$1,330 (member/nonmember; online only or online with print). It focuses on the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams and includes a personalized study plan, 2,700+ practice questions, and 18 months of online access.
Choose HRCP for affordability, flexible formats, and multi-exam prep. Consider SHRM for an adaptive study plan and a practice exam with previously used SHRM exam questions. Both are legitimate preparation options. Neither program guarantees that every candidate will pass.
Both can help you prepare. The right choice depends on your budget, which exams you’re considering, and how you prefer to study — for example self-paced materials with practice exams, or SHRM’s personalized study plan and a practice exam with previously used exam questions. Here’s a fair, side-by-side look based on what each organization publishes about its own program.
HRCP Program vs SHRM Certification Prep System at a glance
| Complete HRCP Program | SHRM Certification Prep System (formerly SHRM Learning System) | |
|---|---|---|
| Who publishes it | HRCP, an independent exam prep provider (since 1995) | SHRM, produced with Holmes Corporation |
| Exams covered | PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP | SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP |
| Formats | Print, Online, or Print & Online Editions. Instructor-led prep using HRCP materials through training partners |
Online or Online + Printed books. Instructor-led prep using SHRM materials through SHRM and partner organizations. |
| Price | Online: $270 Print: $375 Print & Online: $480 Volume discounts and promotional offers |
Online: $820 member / $1,130 nonmember Online + Printed books: $1,020 member / $1,330 nonmember Volume discounts available for purchases of 2 or more |
| Practice questions | 2,150+ practice questions delivered through 17 online assessments (preliminary assessment, 6 practice tests, 6 timed exams, 3 mock exams, and 1 situational judgment practice test) | 2,700+ practice questions through online quizzes and a practice exam that includes questions previously used on actual SHRM certification exams |
| Study material | 900+ pages divided across six units, updated yearly and checked against the HRCI Body of Knowledge and the SHRM BASK; learning objectives and self-assessments in every section; tables, charts, and exhibits throughout. Online and Print & Online formats include audio and AI virtual assistant. | Interactive online reading, visuals, audio segments and short videos covering the SHRM BASK |
| Flashcards | 600+ flashcards (printed cards, digital, or both, depending on edition) | Online flashcards, or download printable flashcards |
| Study help | AI Virtual Assistant and audio screen reader (Online and Print & Online Editions only); Guide for Successful Exam Preparation; sample study schedules | Customized study plan based on four pre-tests, with topic cards that update as you go |
| Online access | 24 months from purchase, non-transferable. All formats include online practice exams. Online books, audio, and AI Virtual Assistant: Online and Print & Online formats only. |
18 months from purchase, non-transferable |
| Guarantee / returns | You Pass or Your Money Back guarantee (Terms and conditions apply) and a separate 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee | Return policy: unused items within 30 days of purchase; online access may be refundable within 30 days if you haven’t logged in |
| Try it free | Free 20-question practice test Demo available upon request |
Free demo on SHRM’s exam preparation page |
How we compared these programs: We reviewed published 2026 product information from HRCP and SHRM, including pricing, included study tools, practice questions, access periods, and learning formats. Details were last checked October 2026. *Prices and features could change.
Sources: HRCP, HRCP Program product pages, You Pass or Your Money Back, and free practice test; SHRM, Certification Prep System Online Only, Online with Printed Books, SHRM Certification Exam Preparation and returns policy. *Prices and features are as published by each organization and can change; check each site before you buy.
See HRCP’s practice questions for yourself
Take a free 20-question practice test before you decide. No purchase needed.
What is the HRCP Program?
The Complete HRCP Program is independent HR certification exam preparation materials. This program prepares you for the PHR®, SPHR®, SHRM-CP® and SHRM-SCP® exams. Since 1995, HRCP has helped more than 100,000 HR professionals prepare for their HR certification exams. All three formats include:
- 900+ pages of study materials, updated annually (new edition each January), organized into six units
- 2,150+ practice questions across 17 online practice exams: 1 preliminary assessment, 6 practice exams, 6 timed exams, 3 mock exams, and 1 situational judgment practice exam
- 600+ flashcards
- The online Guide for Successful Exam Preparation, with study and test-taking strategies
- Sample study schedules
- 24 months of access to the online practice exams from the date of purchase
All three HRCP formats include 24 months of access to the online practice exams. Online study materials, audio features, and the AI Virtual Assistant are available with the Online and Print & Online formats. In those editions, the AI Virtual Assistant answers questions and helps explain concepts as you study, and an audio screen reader is built into the electronic books.
HRCP offers self-paced preparation in print, online, and combined editions. Instructor-led preparation using HRCP materials is also available through training partners (colleges and universities, HR associations, HR companies, employer groups, and HR consultants).
Prices are $270 for the Online Edition with Audio, $375 for the Print Edition, and $480 for the Print & Online Edition with Audio. Compared with SHRM’s $820 member online price, HRCP’s $270 Online Edition is about $550 less—though features and content are not identical. The program is backed by HRCP’s You Pass or Your Money Back guarantee. Terms and conditions apply.
What is the SHRM Learning System?
The SHRM Learning System is SHRM’s prep program for the SHRM-CP® and SHRM-SCP® exams. SHRM now calls it the SHRM Certification Prep System, “formerly known as the SHRM Learning System.” It teaches the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (SHRM BASK®), the competency framework SHRM describes as the blueprint for both SHRM exams.
According to SHRM, the self-study program includes:
- A customized study plan built around your exam date and a series of four pre-tests
- Online topic cards, interactive reading, visuals, audio segments, and short videos
- 2,700+ practice questions in online quizzes, plus a practice exam that includes questions previously used on actual SHRM certification exams
- Online flashcards and downloadable printable flashcards
- 18 months of non-transferable online access from the date of purchase
SHRM offers online only ($820 for SHRM members, $1,130 for nonmembers) or online with printed books ($1,020 and $1,330). SHRM also offers SHRM Certification Prep+, an instructor-led course in classroom, virtual, and hybrid formats that includes the Prep System. SHRM prep courses are also available through partner organizations.
Key differences
Who makes it
The Certification Prep System is SHRM’s branded prep program (produced with Holmes Corporation). HRCP is an independent exam prep provider and is not affiliated with SHRM. HRCP’s materials are not written by SHRM.
Cost
HRCP runs $270–$480; SHRM runs $820–$1,330. For online options alone, HRCP’s $270 Edition is about $550 less than SHRM’s $820 member price—features are not identical.
Exams covered
The HRCP Program covers the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP, which helps if you haven’t decided between HRCI and SHRM certification—or want to prepare for both. SHRM’s program is for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP only.
Practice questions
HRCP publishes 2,150+ practice questions across 17 online assessments (timed, mock, and situational judgment). SHRM publishes 2,700+, including a practice exam with previously used SHRM exam questions. These totals describe different assessment systems.
Access
All three HRCP formats include 24 months of access to the online practice exams. Online study materials, audio features, and the AI Virtual Assistant are available with the Online and Print & Online formats. SHRM gives 18 months of online access.
Ways to study
Both offer self-paced study and instructor-led prep through partners. HRCP offers print, online, and combined editions; SHRM offers online or online-with-print, plus its own instructor-led Certification Prep+.
Is HRCP better than the SHRM Learning System?
Neither program is best for everyone. HRCP may be the better value for candidates who want lower-cost preparation, print and online options, or flexibility to prepare for HRCI exams, SHRM exams, or both. SHRM’s Certification Prep System may be preferable for candidates who value a personalized study plan, interactive learning tools, and a practice exam with previously used SHRM exam questions. Compare the included features and your preferred learning style before choosing.
Which prep program should you choose for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam?
When HRCP may be a better fit
- You want comprehensive prep at a lower price
- You are still deciding between the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP — or you want to prepare for both an HRCI exam and a SHRM exam — since one program covers all four
- You want 24 months of online access and flexible print, online, or combined formats
- You want an AI Virtual Assistant and an Audio Reader (Online and Print & Online Editions)
- You want sample study schedules to structure your prep
- You prefer an instructor-led class that uses HRCP materials through a training partner
- You want the reassurance of HRCP’s You Pass or Your Money Back guarantee (Terms and conditions apply)
When SHRM’s Certification Prep System may be a better fit
- You want prep materials published by SHRM
- You prefer a personalized study plan that adjusts to your progress and are comfortable with the higher price
- You want a practice exam that includes previously used SHRM exam questions
- You prefer an instructor-led class built on SHRM materials, through SHRM Certification Prep+ or a partner course
Not sure which certification fits you? Take HRCP’s free HR Cert Fit Assessment, or read our SHRM-CP exam prep guide and SHRM-SCP exam prep guide.
Preparing for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP?
The Complete HRCP Program includes 2,150+ practice questions, 900+ pages of study materials, 600+ flashcards, and 24 months of online practice-exam access. If you meet all of the guarantee requirements and don’t pass, you may be eligible for a refund of the purchase price of the HRCP Program. Terms and conditions apply.
Frequently asked questions
Is the SHRM Learning System the same as the SHRM Certification Prep System?
Yes. SHRM now calls its self-study program the SHRM Certification Prep System and describes it as “formerly known as the SHRM Learning System.” It prepares you for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP and teaches the SHRM BASK, the competency framework SHRM uses as the blueprint for both exams. SHRM also offers an instructor-led version called SHRM Certification Prep+.
Do I need the SHRM Learning System / Certification Prep System to take the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP?
No. SHRM does not require you to buy its Certification Prep System (formerly the SHRM Learning System) to sit for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP. You can prepare with independent materials, instructor-led courses from training partners (which may use HRCP, SHRM, or other materials), or SHRM’s own program.
Can I prepare for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP with HRCP instead of the SHRM Certification Prep System?
Yes. Many candidates use independent prep providers. The Complete HRCP Program covers the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP (and also the PHR and SPHR) with study materials, flashcards, and 2,150+ practice questions. SHRM’s Certification Prep System is published by SHRM, but it is not required to take the exam.
How much does the SHRM Learning System cost compared with the HRCP Program?
The HRCP Program is $270 for the Online Edition with Audio, $375 for the Print Edition, and $480 for the Print & Online Edition with Audio. SHRM lists its Certification Prep System at $820 for members and $1,130 for nonmembers online only, or $1,020 and $1,330 with printed books. Volume discounts and promotional pricing can apply for both providers. Prices can change, so check each site before you buy.
Is the SHRM Learning System worth the higher price?
That depends on which features matter most to you. HRCP offers a lower-cost alternative with study materials, flashcards, practice exams, and multiple learning formats. SHRM’s Certification Prep System includes a personalized study plan, interactive learning tools, and a practice exam with previously used SHRM exam questions. Compare the tools you expect to use before deciding whether SHRM’s higher price is worthwhile.
Does the HRCP Program prepare you for the SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP?
Yes. The Complete HRCP Program covers the PHR, SPHR, SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. It includes 900+ pages of study materials, 600+ flashcards, and 2,150+ practice questions across 17 online practice exams, including a situational judgment practice exam. HRCP is an independent exam prep provider, so its materials are not written by SHRM.
Is HRCP affiliated with SHRM?
No. HRCP is an independent exam prep provider and is not affiliated with SHRM. SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP are registered trademarks of SHRM. The SHRM Certification Prep System is SHRM’s prep program. HRCP has offered its own HR certification prep since 1995 and has helped more than 100,000 HR professionals prepare for their exams.
Who wrote the HRCP materials?
The Human Resource Certification Preparation Program is designed by David J. Cherrington (DBA, SPHR) and Laura Z. Middleton (SPHR, SPHRi). Dr. Cherrington is the principal author of the HRCP Program and served on the HR Certification Institute Board of Directors from 1989 to 1995, including as National Director of Codification and Research and National Director of Exam Development. Laura Middleton is president of HRCP, L.C. More about them: About the Authors.
How many practice questions does each program include?
HRCP publishes a bank of 2,150+ practice questions delivered through 17 online assessments, including timed exams, mock exams, and situational judgment practice. Exams can be retaken as many times as desired, but each exam can be taken only once every 24 hours. SHRM publishes 2,700+ practice questions, including a practice exam featuring questions previously used on SHRM certification exams. These totals describe different assessment systems.
What is the difference between HRCP’s Print and Online Editions?
All three HRCP formats—Print, Online with Audio, and Print & Online with Audio—include 24 months of access to the online practice exams. The Online and Print & Online formats also include the online study books, flashcards, audio features, and the AI Virtual Assistant. The Print Edition includes printed study materials, flashcards, and the online practice exams, but does not include the online books, audio, or AI Virtual Assistant.
How long do you get access to each program?
All three HRCP formats include 24 months of access to the online practice exams. Online study materials, audio features, and the AI Virtual Assistant are available with the Online and Print & Online formats. That extra time can help if you need to move your exam to a later testing window. SHRM gives 18 months of access to the online study tools from the date of purchase.
Does either program offer a money-back guarantee?
HRCP offers its You Pass or Your Money Back guarantee. If you meet all of the guarantee requirements and don’t pass, you may be eligible for a refund of the purchase price of the HRCP Program. Terms and conditions apply. Separately, HRCP also offers a 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee. SHRM does not publish a pass-or-money-back guarantee. SHRM publishes a return policy: unused items can be returned within 30 days of purchase, and online access may be refundable within 30 days if you haven’t logged in. A return policy is not the same as a pass or money back guarantee.
Can I try the HRCP Program before I buy?
Yes. HRCP offers a free 20-question practice test. Create a free account on hrcp.com, and the practice test is added to your account automatically. It gives you a preview of the style of HRCP’s online practice questions before you decide. You can also request a demo.
About the author of this comparison
Terri Varnell, SPHR, is the Chief Operating Officer of HRCP and created this comparison. She has personally taken the aPHR, aPHRi, PHR, PHRi, SPHR, SPHRi, SHRM-CP, and SHRM-SCP. She draws on that experience when advising professionals on which certification to pursue and how to prepare for exam day.
You can pass your HR certification exam. We’ll help you get there.
Start with a free practice test, then choose the edition that fits how you study.
SHRM-CP® and SHRM-SCP® are registered trademarks of SHRM. PHR® and SPHR® are registered trademarks of HRCI. HRCP is an independent exam prep provider and is not affiliated with SHRM.