Is the APR Worth It? Why This Credential Still Matters (Even With the Price Increase)
Posted on Apr. 3, 2026 / Subscribe 0
By: Sydney Stone, APR, MSOD; APR Chapter Chair
Let's address the elephant in the room: yes, APR fees are going up on July 1. And yes, that might make you pause before hitting that "apply" button. It would make me think twice too.
But here's the thing—if you're reading this, you're probably already wondering if getting your APR is the right move for your career. So let's talk about why this credential might be a great investment in your career, regardless of the price tag.
You've Put in the Work. Now Get the Recognition.
You've been working in PR for years. You've managed crises at 2 AM, pitched stories that actually landed, and somehow turned "we need this yesterday" into a successful campaign. You know your stuff.
The APR is how you prove it—not just to others, but to yourself.
This isn't about letters after your name (though those don't hurt). It's about validating the expertise you've already built and setting yourself apart in a crowded field. When everyone claims to be a "communications expert," the APR shows you've actually demonstrated it.
The Career Doors It Opens Are Real
Here's what I hear from APRs:
“It helped me negotiate a higher salary." Employers recognize the APR as a mark of commitment and competence. That alone can translate to real dollars in your paycheck.
"It made me more competitive for leadership roles." Looking to move into management or shift to a new organization? The APR signals you're ready for increased responsibility.
"It expanded my network." The APR community is connected, supportive, and full of people who can help you grow nationwide—whether that's through mentorship, job opportunities, or just someone who gets what you're dealing with.
You're Ready for This
If you're 5+ years into your career and feeling like you've hit a plateau, the APR might be the push you need. The process itself—studying for the exam, compiling your portfolio, going through the panel presentation—forces you to reflect on your work and identify areas where you can grow.
Think of it as professional development with a credential at the finish line.
About That Price Increase...
I won't sugarcoat it: going from $75 to $150 for renewals and $385 to $495 for applications is significant. But consider this—these fees haven't changed in 25 years. The program needed updating to stay sustainable and continue providing value.
And compared to other professional certifications? The APR is still competitive. Many comparable credentials cost significantly more and require more frequent renewals.
Plus, if you're on the fence and want to lock in the lower fee, you've got until July 1 to make it happen.
The Bottom Line
Investing in your career isn't always comfortable. It takes time, money, and effort. But if you're serious about PR as a long-term profession—and you want to be recognized as someone who's serious about it—the APR is one of the best investments you can make.
You've already done the hard part: building the experience and skills. Now it's time to make it official.
Ready to take the next step? Attend our upcoming free (to members) webinar “Ready for the APR? Next steps, cost, and how to build your support network” on April 28. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions.
Learn more about the APR process and requirements at http://praccreditation.org.
Important Changes to APR Accreditation Fee
Effective July 1, PRSA Nationals have decided APR application and renewal fees will increase for the first time in 25 years.
What's Changing
· APR Application Fee: $385 → $495
· APR Renewal Fee:** $75 → $150
Why These Changes Are Necessary
The APR accreditation fees have remained unchanged for 25 years. During that time, operational costs have risen significantly, and adjustments are now required to ensure the long-term financial health and sustainability of the accreditation program while maintaining its quality and value.
The renewal fee increase is based on a benchmarking study of comparable professional credentials and their associated fees, bringing the APR program in line with industry standards.
What This Means for You
If you're planning to apply or renew:
· Applications and renewals completed *before July ** will be charged the current lower fees
· Applications and renewals submitted *on or after July 1* will be subject to the new fees
Looking Ahead
To avoid large, infrequent fee increases in the future, the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB) plans to establish a schedule for periodic fee reviews. This approach will help maintain program sustainability while keeping fees predictable for members.
Questions?
For more information about these changes, please contact:
· Sydney Stone, PRSA Cleveland/Akron APR Chair: [email protected]
· Yolanda Stephen, UAB Chair: [email protected]
· Susan Belanich, PRSA Accreditation contact: [email protected]
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