The next AFA Exam date is October 18, 2008.

The American Federation of Astrologers takes pride in its examination and certification program, which has been in existence since 1960. It was designed - and continues to this day - to promote AFA's educational mission and the advancement of ethical astrology.

Candidates are not limited to any one system of mathematics, house cusp division, or school of study. Each, however, must demonstrate a high level of accuracy in chart calculation and interpretation.

AFA offers exams in natal astrology at three levels of proficiency: student, professional, and teacher. Each of these is a separate examination, and you must pass the student exam before taking the professional exam, and pass the professional exam before taking the teacher exam. There are NO exceptions.

The requirements and expertise needed to prepare for each exam are as follows:

Student Exam: You will be required to erect mathematically correct natal and progressed charts. Your calculations, including rough notes, must be turned in with test papers at the conclusion of the exam. House cusps and planetary positions must be corrected to the nearest minute. The exam may include questions and calculations for south latitude and east longitude. In addition, you will be required to calculate the natal and progressed declinations and to complete an aspectarian. The interpretation sections of the exam are designed to demonstrate your ability in natal chart delineation as well as your forecasting ability using progressions and transits. Duration: 8 hours.

Professional Exam: The same basic requirements as for the student exam are included in the professional exam. In addition you will be required to demonstrate a more comprehensive ability in chart delineation. This includes a fuller, more intensive report on forecasting events as portrayed by progressions and transits, your counseling ability and your general astrological knowledge. Duration: 8 hours.

Teacher Exam: The same knowledge required by the student and professional exams is necessary. However, much more emphasis is placed on theory: a working knowledge of chart calculation, the various branches of astrology, and astrological terms and techniques. Duration: 8 hours.

For all exams your delineation must demonstrate knowledge of the root principles of signs, houses and planets by illustrating your astrological premise with a written explanation. When answering questions be sure to include the astrological basis for your delineation in parentheses; for example, "The native is practical, stable and dependable (Sun in Taurus), but also far more free-spirited than is typical of this Sun sign (Sun conjunct Uranus)." In addition, the ability to quickly recognize aspects and orbs as stated in the exam is emphasized.

Each exam is designed to be completed within eight hours. Depending upon your level of expertise you may not need the full time period available but should plan for it. Be sure to carefully follow the exam instructions and to allow enough time to review your work.

The examinations are given in the spring and fall, and during AFA conventions. The registration deadline for all applications is one month prior to the date of the exam. There are NO exceptions. Please print and complete the form below and fax or mail your application and waiver form along with a credit card number, check or money order. The fee for each examination is $25 for members and $50 for non-members.

AFA will make every effort to find a exam monitor in your immediate area. There are times, however, when this is not possible. You will then have a choice of traveling to another location or rescheduling your exam for a future date. You may always take an exam at AFA headquarters if you plan to be in the Phoenix, Arizona area.

Once you have completed the registration process you will receive a sample exam, followed by information concerning the details of your exam date, location and monitor. You also will be advised regarding what to bring with you to the exam location. No textbooks, notes or similar materials are permitted. You may, however, use preprinted calculations forms that do not include instructions.

Your exam and all materials turned in with your examination remain the property of the AFA. No exams will be returned. You will be advised of the results within approximately 90 days of the exam date.

Good luck to you!