WHAT IT TAKES TO EARN
ISA CERTIFICATION
This is not a participation badge. It is earned.
OUR MISSION
The speaking profession deserves a standard. The International Speakers Association exists to set it.
We certify speakers who have earned it, not through self-declaration, but through demonstrated skill, professional conduct, and the ability to deliver under pressure.
ISA certification tells event organisers one thing clearly: this speaker has been tested, verified, and is ready for their stage.
Our Certification Pathway
ISA's five-tier certification model meets speakers where they are, from those building their first stage credits to those training the next generation, and holds every level to the same standard of proof.
Requirements
• Complete the ISA Introduction Course
• Agree to the ISA Code of Ethics
• Create a Speaker Profile
Competencies Developed
• Understanding basic speaking structure
• Audience engagement basics
• Stage presence awareness
• Message clarity
How to Apply
Register and complete the ISA Foundations training run by one of our Certified Speaker Trainers (CST).
Investment
Certification Fee: USD $497
Membership: USD $47/month
Level 1: Associate Speaker
For emerging speakers who are beginning their professional journey and are committed to growth, learning, and elevating their message through structured support and a global community.
Requirements
• Complete the ISA Certified 5-Day Speaker Master™ Training
• Submit 1 speaking video (15–60 minutes) meeting at least 8 out of 10 Certified Speaker competencies
• Pass competency assessment
• Provide testimonial from an organiser or client
• Submit a Professional Speaker Kit
• Demonstrate virtual speaking readiness
• Sign and agree to the ISA Code of Ethics
How to Apply
Register for the Speaker Master™ Training and submit your certification materials.
Investment
Certification Fee: USD $2,997
Membership: USD $297/month
For working speakers who deliver real value on stage and are ready to have their skill formally recognised, not just self-declared.
level 2: Certified Speaker
Requirements
• Hold CS-ISA certification for at least 6 months
• Pass the SpeakerPro Master Assessment
• Receive personal recommendation from an existing CPS-ISA member
• Submit a 30–60 minute recorded speech delivered live
• Speech must be presented to a minimum audience of 30 people (virtual or in person)
• Demonstrate high level professional speaking competencies
Certification Investment:
Certification Fee: USD $4,997
Membership: USD $497/month
For accomplished speakers with a proven record of paid engagements, who consistently move audiences and are ready for premium positioning in the market.
level 3: Certified Professional Speaker
Requirements
• Hold CPS-ISA certification for at least 1 year
• Speak on at least 20 live stages
• Train a minimum of 100 students
• Pass Speaker Trainer Assessment
• Deliver live teaching demonstration
• Assist in delivering at least 1 SpeakerPro Training with a CST
Investment
Certification Fee: USD $9,997
Membership: USD $997/month
For experienced speakers ready to lead. This level marks you as someone who trains and develops the next generation of certified professionals, not just performs.
level 4: Certified Speaker Trainer
A lifetime recognition award given to individuals who have made an extraordinary contribution to the speaking profession.
Awarded By
ISA Board of Directors
Eligibility
Invitation Only
A lifetime honour awarded to speakers who have made an exceptional and lasting contribution to the profession, its standards, and its future.
level 5: ISA Fellow
For Investment details contact us at info@isaspeakers.org
Each step exists for one reason:
to ensure you are not just prepared - but proven.
What This Certification Signals
Recognised Credibility
You have been assessed against a defined International standard. That is what the badge means.
Professional Trust
Event organisers can book you with confidence. You have already been vetted.
Ongoing Development
Certification is not a finish line. It is a commitment to continued growth in the profession.
Ethical Standard
ISA members are held to a Code of Ethics. That accountability is part of what makes the credential meaningful.
Clear Market Positioning
In a market full of self-proclaimed speakers, this credential separates you from the noise.