Exam Content & GA Prep Materials

View - GA Exam Content Overview™

View - GA Exam Preparation Workbook™

View - GACEP1 Program Workbook™

  Also Available in Spanish 

Green Advantage provides the following exam preparation materials for your use: 

The GA Exam Content Overview™ is a free exam preparation resource that lists and describes the topics addressed within GA Exams® .  You can review this document to help you prepare for the exam.

The GA Exam Preparation Workbook™  poses overview questions that you can use to test yourself before you take the exam. It is free. To prepare for the challenges of the GA Exams® , use the Workbook questions to test yourself and determine whether you are prepared for the test, or require more study and/or training. 

AIA/CES GACEP1 Program Workbook™

The American Institute of Architects awards eight CES Sustainable Design/HSW Learning Units to individuals who successfully complete the GACEP1 Program. Individuals interested in receiving AIA/CES Learning Units can refer to the GACEP1 Program Workbook^TM  for complete program details.

The Green Advantage  OBER includes comprehensive vocabulary and concept lists related to the exam. Green Advantage updates the OBER  to reflect changes in the exam content. Though the OBER is not designed to replace training, it can help you to prepare for the Green Advantage (GA) Exam® .

Study the OBER thoroughly, and consider how concepts fit together. Review the referenced websites because the exam can include material from them. The exam is open book, but because it is also timed, it is best to learn the concepts without the reference materials.

Most OBER terms apply to both commercial and residential construction. However, some terms in the OBER are specific to one type of construction. Ensure that you understand the concept according to the field practice that relates to your specific exam - commercial, residential, or commercial/residential.  For example, if you plan to take the residential exam, you must learn about the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Green Building Program. If you take the commercial exam, you are not asked questions related to the NAHB Green Building Program. For the commercial/residential exam, it is necessary to know how to apply all of the terms in the OBER.

How to Obtain the OBER™

When you register online you will receive an Open Book Exam Reference (OBER) attached to your exam registration confirmation email. Use that document to study for the exam. If you do not register online, you can receive an OBER through the organization that handles your registration. If your test date approaches and you have not received an OBER, contact Green Advantage for assistance at exams@greenadvantage.org.

The OBER is now available in Spanish - email requests to exams@greenadvantage.org . The GA Commercial/Residential  Exam will be available in Spanish beginni ng July 1, 2012. For details see Exámenes en Español.

How to Obtain Updates of the OBER™

Note the expiration date on the cover of the OBER. If your OBER expires before you take the exam, request an updated version. Also, you are eligible to receive an updated OBER, without charge, throughout the three-year period of your Certification. Send your written request to exams@greenadvantage.org; put OBER Request in the subject line. GA does not accept advance requests for automatic updates.