GARP SCR Certification: 2025 Exam Results, Insights, and Career Impact

GARP SCR Certification: 2025 Exam Results, Insights, and Career Impact

The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR) Certification has emerged as a leading credential for professionals dedicated to understanding and managing the financial risks associated with climate change and sustainability. As the global focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks intensifies, the SCR Certificate is increasingly seen as a key differentiator for those seeking to advance their careers and drive meaningful change within their organizations. This article provides an in-depth look at the 2025 SCR exam results, preparation insights, and the career impact of earning this prestigious certification.

Overview of the GARP SCR Certification

The GARP SCR Certificate is designed for professionals at all stages of their careers, from entry-level analysts to senior executives, across a diverse range of industries including banking, asset management, insurance, consulting, technology, and even non-financial sectors like fashion and hospitality. The certification equips candidates with the tools to:

• Develop robust climate risk mitigation strategies

• Assess and manage physical and transition risks

• Understand the economic impacts of climate change

• Lead organizations in sustainable investment and risk management practices

The SCR is globally recognized and respected, making it a valuable addition to any professional’s qualifications.

Exam Results and Pass Rates: 2025 Insights

Results Release Timeline

GARP typically releases SCR exam results approximately four to six weeks after the exam window closes. Candidates are notified by email and can access their detailed performance reports via the GARP portal. For example, the October 2025 exam results are expected by early January 2026, while the April 2025 results were released in mid-June.

Pass Rate Trends

The SCR exam is known for its moderate difficulty, with pass rates reflecting both the evolving nature of the exam and candidate preparedness. Pass rates for recent sessions are as follows:

Exam Session	Pass Rate
October 2024	66%
April 2024	47%
October 2023	55%
April 2023	57%
October 2022	51%
April 2022	54%

Historically, pass rates have ranged from 47% to 66%, with the April 2024 session marking the lowest to date at 47%. This variation underscores the importance of thorough preparation and staying up to date with the latest climate risk frameworks and regulatory developments.

Scoring Process

GARP’s scoring process is rigorous and overseen by the SCR Advisory Committee. The minimum passing score is set based on exam difficulty and industry best practices. Candidates receive a performance breakdown by module, allowing them to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

2025 SCR Exam Structure and Content GARP SCR Certification 2025 Exam Results and Career Impact

Exam Windows and Format

The SCR exam is offered twice annually, typically in April and October. For 2025, the April exam window ran from April 19 to May 3, while the October exam is scheduled for October 18 to November 1. Registration is available globally, with testing conducted at Pearson VUE centers via computer-based testing (CBT).

Exam Details

• Number of Questions: 90 multiple-choice questions, including two case studies

• Duration: 4 hours

• Content Areas:

  • Foundations of Climate Change

  • Sustainability Principles

  • Climate Change Risk and Governance

  • Green and Sustainable Finance

  • Climate Risk Measurement and Management

  • Climate Models and Scenario Analysis

  • Net Zero and Transition Planning

  • Climate and Nature Risk Assessment

The exam is designed to test both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring that candidates are prepared to address real-world sustainability and climate risk challenges.

Effective Preparation Strategies for the SCR Exam

Recommended Study Commitment

Candidates are advised to dedicate between 100 and 150 hours to prepare for the SCR exam. This level of commitment is generally sufficient for most candidates to achieve a passing score, provided they utilize official GARP materials and supplementary resources.

Study Plan Outline

• Weeks 1–2: Review the SCR curriculum and identify key focus areas.

• Weeks 3–6: Deep dive into each content area, taking comprehensive notes and practicing with official materials.

• Weeks 7–8: Focus on case studies and scenario analysis, which are increasingly emphasized in the exam.

• Weeks 9–10: Complete full-length practice exams under timed conditions, review mistakes, and reinforce weak areas.

Top Resources

• GARP SCR official study guide and digital book

• GARP Learning Platform (practice questions, quizzes, and study tools)

• Webinars and online workshops

• Peer study groups and professional forums

Exam Day Tips

• Arrive early at the testing center and bring required identification.

• Manage time efficiently, allocating approximately 2.7 minutes per question.

• Use the process of elimination for challenging questions and flag them for review.

• Stay calm and focused, especially during the case study sections.

What Happens After the Exam?

Receiving Your Results

Candidates receive an email notification once their results are available. The performance report provides a detailed breakdown by module, helping candidates understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

If You Pass

Congratulations! Passing the SCR exam earns you the SCR Certificate, a digital badge, and a place in the global community of sustainability and climate risk professionals. Many candidates leverage this achievement to pursue promotions, new job opportunities, or further specialization in climate risk management.

If You Do Not Pass

Candidates who do not pass receive a detailed performance report and are eligible to retake the exam in a future window. It is recommended to review weak areas, increase study hours, and utilize additional resources such as practice exams and study groups. The full exam fee applies for each retake.

Career Impact of the GARP SCR Certification

1. Career Acceleration and Differentiation

The SCR Certificate is a powerful differentiator in the job market. It demonstrates specialized knowledge in sustainability and climate risk, making holders attractive candidates for roles in

risk management, ESG analysis, sustainable finance, and beyond.

2. Enhanced Employability Across Industries

Companies across a wide range of sectors increasingly value professionals who can navigate climate risks and evolving regulatory landscapes. The SCR is recognized by employers in finance, consulting, technology, supply chain, and even non-traditional sectors such as fashion and hospitality.

3. Leadership and Influence

SCR holders are equipped to move from passive compliance to proactive leadership, guiding organizations toward sustainable practices and responsible climate strategies. The certification fosters an innovative mindset, empowering professionals to develop climate-resilient strategies and advocate for progressive environmental policies.

4. Industry Recognition and Networking

The SCR is globally respected, adding substantial weight to your resume and providing access to a global network of sustainability and climate risk professionals. This network facilitates collaboration, knowledge sharing, and new career opportunities.

5. Value Addition to Organizations

Certified professionals help organizations comply with environmental regulations, develop climate-resilient business models, and drive innovation in sustainability. Their expertise is critical in developing contingency plans, investing in climate-resilient technologies, and shaping corporate sustainability agendas.

6. Career Entry and Pivot

Unlike many professional certifications, the SCR does not require prior work experience, making it accessible for newcomers to the field. For experienced professionals, it serves as a catalyst for career advancement or a pivot into sustainability-focused roles.

The Growing Demand for SCR Expertise

A recent GARP survey found that 85% of professionals believe they will need additional SCR knowledge in the future, and 95% of firms plan to develop strategic approaches to climate risk. However, only 15% of organizations currently have effective climate change mitigation strategies in place, highlighting a significant skills gap and opportunity for SCR-certified professionals. GARP SCR Certification 2025 Exam Results and Career Impact

Real-World Impact: SCR Holders Leading Change

SCR-certified professionals are at the forefront of the transition to a more sustainable and climate-resilient global economy. They drive innovation, influence organizational strategy, and contribute to the development of industry standards and best practices. Their expertise is not only valued in traditional financial roles but also in areas such as supply chain management, operations, technology, and corporate governance.

Conclusion: Is the GARP SCR Certification Worth It?

The GARP SCR Certification is more than just a credential-it is a strategic investment in your career and a passport to leadership in one of the fastest-growing areas of risk management and sustainable finance. With its comprehensive curriculum, global recognition, and strong career impact, the SCR is an invaluable asset for professionals seeking to differentiate themselves, pivot into sustainability, or lead organizations through climate challenges.

By following a structured study plan, leveraging official resources, and engaging with the global SCR community, candidates can maximize their chances of passing the exam and unlocking new career opportunities in 2025 and beyond. The SCR Certificate not only enhances individual skill sets but also contributes to the global movement toward sustainability and climate resilience-positioning holders as leaders, innovators, and agents of positive change in an uncertain world.