Approved By:	ESPCC
Changes Must be Authorized By:	APSE Board of Directors
Approval Date:	February 24, 2012
Revision Date(s):	March 16, 2021; August 15, 2025
Date Last Reviewed:	August 15, 2025

The services of consultants, vendors, and other contractors (herein after referred to as “subcontractors”) described in this policy refer to work subcontracted by APSE with the ESPCC to an external organization, company, or person under a written agreement. The term “subcontracting” in this policy describes situations in which substantive work is conducted by an individual, company, or organization other than APSE.

This policy does not apply to employees of APSE or to vendor relationships for the purchase of equipment, supplies, maintenance services, etc.

Contracts

The ESPCC may recommend the retention of services of subcontractors as needed to conduct the operations of the credentialing program in compliance with APSE policies and procedures and within the approved operational budget. These services may include psychometric consultation, examination security or administration consultation, accreditation compliance consultation, and other similar services.

Essential credentialing program decisions, including, but not limited to eligibility requirements, renewal policies, and establishing the examination passing point(s), cannot be delegated to any subcontractor. The ESPCC is responsible for the oversight of any subcontracted work.

Legal contracts for subcontractor services will be reviewed by the Certification Director and/or assigned APSE staff to ensure the scope of the contract meets the needs identified. The Certification Director and/or assigned APSE staff will have access to legal counsel to assist and review in contracts if necessary. All contracts must be reviewed by the APSE Executive Director. Contracts will be approved and signed by APSE in accordance with APSE policies and procedures. If so required by APSE Policy 4.2 - Contracts, contracts will be submitted to the APSE Board of Directors for review. All subcontractors must sign confidentiality and conflict of interest forms or must provide these provisions in their contract. Provisions for monitoring and evaluating the work performed by the subcontractor will be included in the contract.