AIEC Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AIEC?

The AI Ethical Certification (AIEC) is an internationally recognized certification that validates adherence to ethical principles in artificial intelligence — issued by IFPASA under the American Research Foundation. It is built on four major global frameworks: UNESCO AI Ethics Recommendation, OECD AI Principles, IEEE Ethically Aligned Design, and the EU AI Act. The AIEC has three tracks: Track A for AI products and systems, Track B for organizations, and Track C for individual researchers and ethicists.

What are the three certification tracks?

What is the AIEC Trust Mark?

The AIEC Trust Mark is a certified digital badge that certified organizations, products, and individuals may display on their websites, publications, and communications — signalling to regulators, customers, partners, and the public that their AI practices have been independently reviewed and certified by IFPASA. The Trust Mark includes a unique serial number that can be verified on the IFPASA website.

How long does the certification process take?

The typical timeline from application submission to certificate issuance is 4–6 weeks. This includes documentation review, ethical assessment by subject matter experts, and where necessary, review by the IFPASA Arbitration Committee. Expedited processing may be requested for an additional fee.

What documentation is required?

• Track A: System architecture documentation, data sources and handling, model explainability evidence, bias testing results, privacy controls
• Track B: AI governance policy, board oversight evidence, ethics training programs, incident response procedures, transparency documentation
• Track C: CV / academic record, statement of ethics practice, research publications or professional contributions (if applicable)

What happens if certification is not granted?

If certification is not granted, IFPASA provides a detailed feedback report explaining the gaps identified and the specific areas that need to be addressed before re-application. Organizations and individuals are invited to re-apply after a 90-day improvement period. The re-application processing fee is $300.

How does AIEC relate to AIRGC?

The AIEC and AIRGC are complementary rather than competing programs. AIEC focuses on ethical principles — transparency, fairness, accountability, human oversight — and is aligned with UNESCO, OECD, IEEE, and EU AI Act. AIRGC is broader and covers organizational AI governance maturity across five dimensions including strategy, people, data, and operations, with alignment to ISO 42001 and NIST AI RMF. Many organizations pursue both: AIEC for ethical compliance and AIRGC for governance maturity.

Can a Track C individual become an AIEC auditor?

Yes. Track C (FAIE) holders are eligible to apply to join the IFPASA Certified AI Fellowship and, through additional training, may qualify as AIEC auditors who review Track A and Track B applications. This creates a professional pathway from individual certification to active participation in the certification ecosystem.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted through the IFPASA application portal. Select your track, complete the application form, and upload the required documentation. Our team will confirm receipt within 2 business days and assign your application to the appropriate review panel.