How to Become a Certified Image Consultant with the International Image Institute
The International Image Institute Inc., founded by Karen Brunger, AICI Certified Image Professional (CIP), is a globally respected leader in image consulting education and training. For over three decades, the Institute has supported aspiring and established professionals in achieving excellence in the field of image consulting.
One of the most recognized designations in the industry is Certified Image Consultant (CIC) – the first level of professional certification offered by the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI), the leading global body for image professionals. AICI sets the standards for education, ethics, and professional practice in image consulting.
Karen Brunger has been deeply involved with AICI for decades, including serving as International President, Canada Chapter President, and Vice President of Education. Her leadership helped shape AICI’s certification programs and directly influences how the International Image Institute prepares its students to become Certified Image Consultants.
Whether your focus is colour analysis, personal style, wardrobe planning, etiquette, or communication, AICI certification is designed to support a broad range of specialties within the image consulting industry. The Certified Image Consultant designation allows you to demonstrate expertise and professionalism in the area you are most passionate about.
While certification is not a requirement to work as an image consultant or colour analyst, it can significantly strengthen your professional credibility. Earning the Certified Image Consultant designation demonstrates your commitment to industry standards, best practices, and ongoing development. It also connects you to a supportive international community of professionals and opens the door to growth opportunities such as referrals, recognition, and leadership within the field.
Supporting Your Certification Journey
The Certified Image Consultant credential validates your professional training, practical experience, and commitment to industry standards. The International Image Institute offers strong support to those working toward this certification through:
Curriculum alignment
Our training is structured to meet AICI’s core competencies, covering areas such as colour analysis, personal style, wardrobe planning, etiquette, and communication.
Portfolio development
AICI certification requires submission of a professional portfolio. We provide guidance to help you organize, format, and present your materials to meet AICI’s standards.
Expert mentorship
Students have access to seasoned professionals who offer support and feedback throughout the certification process.
Continuing education units
Many of our programs are eligible for AICI CEUs, which are required to maintain your certification as a Certified Image Consultant.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Certified Image Consultant
Step 1: Choose your certification track
There are two pathways to certification:
- Portfolio → Exam: Submit your portfolio first, then take the CIC exam within six months
- Exam → Portfolio: Take the exam first, then submit your portfolio within twelve months
You can switch tracks before reaching your deadlines if needed
Step 2: Submit your application
Apply online through AICI’s portal and await approval to move forward with your chosen track
Application form available at: AICI CIC Application
Step 3: Register for the exam
The CIC exam is a multiple-choice test (100 questions, 80 minutes) administered through Prometric (online or test center). AICI provides a handbook, list of competencies, and a practice exam to help you prepare
Step 4: Prepare and submit your portfolio
Your portfolio must earn at least 20 points and include:
- At least 30 hours of formal training
- Business identity materials
- Documentation of five paid clients
- One year of AICI or similar membership
- A professional presentation or speaking engagement
- Demonstrated AICI involvement
All documents are submitted as a single PDF, along with sealed client evaluations. Review typically takes about two months
Step 5: Receive your certification
Depending on your chosen track, you will either complete the exam after portfolio approval or submit your portfolio after passing the exam. Once both components are approved, AICI will issue your Certified Image Consultant certificate
Step 6: Maintain your certification
Certification is valid for three years. Renewal requires completion of continuing education hours (CEUs) and submission of a renewal form.
Sample Timeline (Portfolio → Exam Track)
- Register as a member of AICI (if not already a member of a similar organization)
- Submit CIC application
- Application approved
- Submit portfolio
- Portfolio approved
- Take CIC exam within six months
- Certification granted
- Valid for three years, then renew
To learn more about becoming a Certified Image Consultant, including current fees, deadlines, and additional details, visit the official AICI website: www.aici.org. There is a also a helpful video available on the linked page to walk you through the application process.
If you’re ready to begin your training journey, the International Image Institute is here to support you every step of the way.