ISA Study Guide

[Caliburn]

Hi, I recently bought and am beginning to digest, the ISA Arborists Certification Study Guide and CD package and I have a stupid question!

 

With no prior arb experience, I would not be elligible to sit the Certified Arborist exam, but is there a theory element for which a certificate is obtainable, or is the exam the theory element and the experience taken to be the practical element of being an ISA Certified Arborist?

 

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[ScottF]

I'd check with the ISA first, but I think there may be an element of practical experience required prior to sitting the exam (which is a written exam; there is no management element as in some UK exams).

 

As a UK arborist the ISA cert arb wouldn't be my first choice for a first cert (although I think it is worth doing). Have you looked at doing the RFS cert arb?

 

RFS Certificate in Arboriculture | RFS

[Silver Back]

Hi, it is a valid question.

To sit the Certified Arborist exam you need to;

have 1 year academic study/or apprentice scheme

or 3 years experience

[Silver Back]

Sorry that sent too quick........

So Certified Arborist, ISA and the Certificate of Arboriculture with the RFS are on a par knowledge wise. One of the many advantages with the ISA, is that it is recognised globally, requires continuing education to maintain the credential. The exam has recently been changed in that the plant identification has been modified to testing botantical keys instead - leaf shape etc

You will also need to contact the Chapter office to get a free download of the safety and legislation chapters pertinent to the UK. Although some of the American terms have slipped though in this years exam paper, we strive to look at the questions and make them relevant to the country that holds the exam.

Hope this helps, please feel free to ask more.........

[Caliburn]

Hi guys, thanks so much for your replies, you have definitely helped enlighten me

 

I'm all set to do the RFS Level 2 Cert with Myerscough by distance from September, and do intent to do my tickets too (have CS30 already).

 

Also thinking about volunteering a day a week with a willing local tree officer if I can find one who'll oblige, so hopefully I'll get some practical experience

 

It's a time thing, as I am completely re-training and it can be difficult to know what's the best route when courses are so costly.