Credential type: certification examination · verified on the issuer's site September 19, 2026 issuer page
Retired exam
American Welding Society retired SCWI on 2025-04-01. WPQ1,WPQ2,WCQA,NDEC is the named replacement path.
Explore the broader replacement path WPQ1,WPQ2,WCQA,NDEC: current pathThe Senior Certified Welding Inspector exam, certified by the American Welding Society, was officially retired on 2025-04-01. It previously covered advanced inspection methods, welding metallurgy, and advanced codes and standards. Every candidate looking to advance their professional credentials must now look toward the verified successor path consisting of WPQ1,WPQ2,WCQA,NDEC for their future certification journey.
Active Certified Welding Inspectors and experienced inspection professionals holding extensive welding inspection experience, who are now preparing to progress through the verified successor credentials of WPQ1,WPQ2,WCQA,NDEC to maintain their professional standing.
Do not prepare to sit for this retired exam because the American Welding Society has officially discontinued it. Instead, build your preparation around the verified successor path WPQ1,WPQ2,WCQA,NDEC. Review technical reference materials and study guide documents to master procedure qualifications, welder performance, and NDE coordination as required by the new standards.
This domain covers advanced inspection techniques across 40.0 percent of the exam content, focusing heavily on inspection methodologies and joining methods for professional inspectors seeking to validate their technical expertise in the field.
This domain addresses metallurgical principles and weld characteristics, accounting for 30.0 percent of the evaluation scope to ensure a thorough understanding of material behaviors and properties during the welding and inspection process for all candidates.
This domain evaluates complex code requirements and standard specifications, representing 30.0 percent of the exam coverage for compliance and specification adherence, ensuring that inspectors maintain the highest levels of quality control and safety standards.
The examination contains a total of 150 multiple choice and open-book multiple choice questions delivered across a linear computer-based testing format for all registered candidates seeking certification.
The examination uses a pass/fail grading scale, and specific passing thresholds are not publicly disclosed by the American Welding Society under any circumstances for any of their exams.
Candidates are given a total duration of 120 minutes to complete the linear computer-based examination at approved test centers and designated testing facilities for their professional certification requirements.
The exam price is set at $1,095 for active members and $1,395 for non-members. You should verify current fees directly at the official website before registration.
Verified 2026-08-30
This index page was built using verified facts and official documentation provided directly by the certifying body to ensure total accuracy for all users and candidates.