Your Credential Value & Returns on Investment
No hidden fees. No surprise charges. Just transparent fees for professional certification that pays for itself in weeks, not years.
Most Leaders Pay
Year 1: $870 total
Year 2+: $600/year renewal
Timeline: 3-8 weeks to full certification
Break-even: Less than 1 month (based on average salary increase)
Start Application - $20 →Complete Program Costs Breakdown
Step 1: Register
Registration Fee: $20 (Non-refundable)
- Application processing
- Credential review
- Initial assessment
- Membership level recommendation
No commitment beyond $20 until you decide to proceed.
Step 2: Get Assessed
Assessment Fee: $250 (one-time, after approval)
- Full credential verification
- Portfolio review (APEL/CBE assessment)
- Reference checks
- Competency evaluation
- Certification decision
Refundable within 30 days if unsatisfied with the process.
Step 3: Activate Membership
Annual Membership Fees:
| Membership Level | Year 1 Fee | Renewal (Year 2+) |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Member | $250 | $250/year |
| Associate (AMCIBST) | $400 | $400/year |
| Chartered (MCIBST) | $600 | $600/year |
| Chartered Fellow (FCIBST) | $850 | $850/year |
| Research Fellow (FRCIBST) | $850 | $850/year |
| Doctoral Fellow (DFCIBST) | $1,200 | $1,500/year |
| Professional Fellow (PFUBST) | $1,500 | $1,500/year |
- International license card (physical + digital)
- Professional designation usage rights
- Global directory listing
- CPD resources and webinars
- Publishing opportunities
- Networking and mentorship
- Member-only benefits
Total Investment Examples
MCIBST (Chartered Member)
Year 1: $870
Year 2+: $600/year
AMCIBST (Associate Member)
Year 1: $670
Year 2+: $400/year
DFCIBST (Doctoral Fellow)
Year 1: $1,470
Year 2+: $1,200/year
The ROI Nobody Talks About
Average salary increase after CIBST certification: $12,000-$25,000/year
Year 1 investment: $870 | Break-even: 2-4 weeks
5-year return: $60,000-$125,000 | 10-year return: $120,000-$250,000
Flexible Payment Options
Choose the plan that works best for you
Pay in Full
Recommended — No additional fees
Semi-Annual
2 payments · +$50 processing fee
Quarterly
4 payments · +$100 processing fee
Accepted Methods
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Limited scholarships are available for missionaries, bi-vocational pastors, under-resourced leaders, military chaplains, and students.
Apply for Scholarship →