In 2015, while we were living overseas, I started working on my accreditation with the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGenSM). In 2016, I decided to enroll in an ICAPGen Study Group. I woke up at 5:00 am on meeting days to participate. For a night owl, it was a sacrifice that had great rewards. At that time, the study group covered both the Four Generation Project and the Written Exams, meeting every other week for six months. The feedback I received from peers and mentors was invaluable, and I gained a tremendous amount of knowledge. While giving feedback to others initially felt uncomfortable, it became a crucial part of my learning process. I learned ICAPGen requirements and honed essential skills in the ICAPGen Study Group, which were necessary for my successful accreditation.
After I received my accreditation in January 2018, ICAPGen leaders asked me to run the study group. Over the past seven years, our ICAPGen team of experienced study group leaders and mentors has helped improve and refine the study group curriculum. Participants sharpen their accreditation skills through personalized feedback, guided discussions, and one-on-one mentoring with an Accredited Genealogist® leader or mentor.
Are you ready to take your genealogical skills to the next level and embark on the path to accreditation? We have two different study groups to help you on your accreditation path.
ICAPGen Four Generation Study Group
If you’re an experienced genealogist preparing for accreditation, the ICAPGen Four Generation Study Group is the perfect opportunity to sharpen your skills. This advanced study group focuses on the Four Generation Project, a key component of the accreditation process. The strength of this group lies in its blend of expert guidance and peer support. You’ll receive valuable insights and detailed feedback while building relationships with others on the same journey. Study group leaders and mentors will help you gain a deeper understanding of ICAPGen’s requirements to boost your chances of accreditation success.
Specific Benefits:
Joining this study group opens the door to invaluable guidance and hands-on experience. Participants will:
- Receive expert instruction on the accreditation process, with opportunities to ask questions.
- Work on four intensive homework assignments to improve their writing skills.
- Refine one generation of their Four Generation Project through extensive revision and by incorporating feedback from mentors and peers.
- Collaborate with peers and leaders during mentoring sessions to build confidence in their skill set.
- Network in breakout sessions to discuss skill-building and ICAPGen requirements with mentors and peers.
- Review meeting recordings to enhance their learning experiences.
Study Group Details:
The study group meets virtually via Zoom on Thursdays at 6:00 PM Mountain Time, with seven meetings across 17 weeks. There are two opportunities to join each year:
- Winter Group: Runs from January to May (apply by November 1st)
- Summer Group: Runs from July to November (apply by June 1st)
Process for Applying:
Before applying, your research and educational experience should align with the ICAPGen Accreditation Readiness Assessment. You’ll also need to submit a three-to-five-page research report from your Four Generation Project and an outline of your entire project. Use the ICAPGen Study Group Applicant Evaluation Form to help you prepare your report and outline. To ensure study group readiness, our Study Group Applicant Panel will review your research and writing abilities, give feedback, and assign readiness assignments if needed.
If you’re ready to take your accreditation journey to the next level, email studygroup@icapgen.org with your name, accreditation region, and desired session to receive detailed application instructions. Also, contact us at this email if you’d like to receive our ICAPGen Study Group newsletter, filled with helpful tips and resources to support your accreditation preparation.
ICAPGen Test Prep Study Group
Reasons for Participating:
The Test Prep Study Group is designed to support individuals preparing for the ICAPGen Written Exams. It provides focused guidance on the ICAPGen testing process, helping you build confidence and develop essential skills needed for success. This group is ideal for those who have completed a Four Generation Project and are ready to take the next step toward accreditation. Participants receive instruction, along with peer and mentor reviews of their work, to strengthen their understanding of the ICAPGen testing requirements.
Specific Benefits:
Participants in the Test Prep Study Group will:
- Receive a strengthened understanding of the ICAPGen testing requirements.
- Gain in-depth instruction and preparation for the ICAPGen testing process.
- Learn from experienced AG® mentors through reviews of assignments, including a Final Project four-hour practice test.
- Begin or refine their Personal Reference Guide.
- Collaborate and learn by networking with peers who share similar goals.
- Develop a structured timeline to help stay on track for accreditation.
Study Group Details:
This study group meets virtually via Zoom on Wednesdays at 6:00 PM Mountain Time, with five meetings over nine weeks. There are two opportunities to join each year:
- Fall Group: Runs from September to November (apply by September 1st)
- Spring Group: Runs from April to June (apply by March 15th)
Process for Applying:
To apply, you must meet one of two qualification options:
- You have participated in a Four Generation Study Group and submitted a Four Generation Project through the ICAPGen Testing Secretary.
- You have submitted a Four Generation Project with passing results.
Once qualified, send your name, accreditation region, and Four Generation Project status to studygroup@icapgen.org.
Whether you’re preparing to submit an ICAPGen Four Generation Project or gearing up for the Written Exams, ICAPGen Study Groups provide the personalized support and expert guidance you need to succeed. Join a community of dedicated genealogists and gain the confidence to achieve your accreditation goals.