Preparing for the IAPP exams can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing a full-time job and family commitments. Fortunately, the incredible privacy community at TrustWorks is filled with generous members willing to share their knowledge and experiences. This blog post is the first in a series designed to provide practical tips to help you prepare for various IAPP certifications, including AIGP, CIPP, CIPM, and CIPT.
Here are some key strategies to help you succeed in the IAPP exams:
BASICS
- Understand the core principles
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the foundational concepts of privacy law. This is essential for tackling the exam confidently. - Focus on section scores
The exam is divided into different sections, each with a specific weight. Prioritize your study time based on the scores associated with each section. - Stay motivated
Remind yourself why you’re taking this exam. Whether it’s career growth or personal achievement, keeping your goal in mind will help you push through the tough moments. - Rest and recharge
Adequate rest is crucial for exam success. Make sure to get enough sleep during your prep time, the night before the exam, and after. - Practice hypothetical scenarios
About 60-70% of the exam consists of hypothetical scenarios. Immerse yourself in these cases, put yourself in the character’s shoes, and select the best course of action.
PEERS
- Learn from leaders
Follow privacy leaders who have already excelled in this field. I usually post these IAPP and privacy education tips on my LinkedIn and tag many privacy leaders who contribute to them (you can connect or follow if you want to keep posted 🙂). Their insights are invaluable! - Study groups & buddies
Join a study group or find a study partner to discuss the material. Collaborating with others can deepen your understanding of complex topics. - Find a mentor
A mentor can offer personalised advice and encouragement. The TrustWorks Community has an excellent mentorship program. - Engage in discussions
Participate in roundtable discussions with other privacy professionals to hear varied perspectives. - Connect with people who have passed
Talk to people who have successfully passed the exam. Their advice on what to expect and how to prepare can be a game-changer.
RESOURCES
- IAPP resources
Use the IAPP’s official study materials, including the exam book, training videos, case studies, and regulatory reports. - Legal acts & guidelines
Familiarize yourself with key regulations like GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, and the AI Act. You can also review the EDPB Guidelines and check the guidance section of the EDPS website. - Supplement with additional resources
Look for informative content such as LinkedIn Learning videos, articles, and recitals to expand your knowledge base.
METHOD
- Create your own study tools
Use flashcards, notes, diagrams, and mind maps to help retain information. Personalized study aids can significantly improve retention. - Leverage AI for practice
Tools like ChatGPT or Gemini can help you generate practice questions. Use platforms like Quizlet to create or access flashcards from others. - Practice past exams
Review past exams to identify your weak areas. Focus your efforts on improving in those specific sections. - Consider professional training
Enrolling in courses from professional trainers like 22Academy or Udemy (Kyle David) could provide additional context and help clarify challenging concepts.
TIMING
- Allow enough prep time
Give yourself sufficient time to prepare without cramming. Plan ahead and study steadily. - Keep information fresh
Schedule your exam soon after completing your study materials while the knowledge is still fresh in your mind. - Choose the best time to study
Pick a less hectic period in your life to focus on exam prep and minimize distractions. - Exam date strategy
Some people benefit from booking the exam early to maintain focus, while others prefer to schedule it once they feel fully prepared. Keep in mind any expiration dates.
ON THE DAY
- Read carefully
Pay close attention to the wording of each question. Focus on key terms and the context to avoid common pitfalls. - Trust your instincts
Avoid overthinking your answers. Often, your first instinct is the correct one. - Eliminate and choose
If unsure, eliminate clearly wrong answers, then choose the best fit from the remaining options. Flag any difficult questions for review later. - Leave time to review
Save time at the end of the exam to review your answers and make any necessary changes. - Consider breaks
A short break during the exam can help refresh your mind and improve focus. - Choose exam center or remote
Exam centers typically reduce the risk of technical issues or distractions. If opting for a remote exam, make sure to test your systems in advance and close any unnecessary programs. - Stay calm
Remember, you don’t need a perfect score to pass. Stay focused, and don’t panic if you encounter difficult questions.
This is just the beginning! Be sure to follow as over the coming weeks we will share specific tips and resources for each IAPP certification (AIGP, CIPP, CIPM, CIPT).
✍️ Have additional tips to share? Please contact us or DM me on LinkedIn, and I’ll be happy to chat and include your tips in future posts.
🤝 The TrustWorks Privacy Community offers access to a network of privacy professionals and a Mentorship Program. If you’re not already a member, find more info and the link to join here.
Good luck with your preparation, and remember—you’re not alone on this journey!
author
Orla Dormer
Head of Growth & Community
