Final LEED v4 Green Associate Exam Prep Course 

February 26 and 27 from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM (virtual)

The Green Building Certification Institute (GBIC) created the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Associate credential to denote basic knowledge and understanding of green building design and construction, including transportation, energy, water, and air quality. The LEED Green Associate exam tests general knowledge of green building practices and concepts needed to support other professionals working on LEED projects. The Green Associate credential also serves as the first step for professionals pursuing a more advanced LEED Accredited Professional (AP) Specialization. Green building is global, and when you earn a LEED credential, you join an international community of professionals committed to better building, design, and operations. 

This workshop teaches the core concepts of the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED certification program and helps participants effectively navigate both requirements and practical context relating to the LEED Building Design and Construction (BD+C) rating system. Through this course, participants will build a strong foundation towards successfully passing the LEED v4 Green Associate exam. The course and the exam are open to anyone, regardless of experience level. 

Since the LEED v4 exam is sunsetting in April 2026, this is an excellent and final opportunity for professionals seeking their credential to take the training and exam before the LEED exam switches over to version 5. 

Course Overview

This course is being hosted virtually over two half-day sessions, February 26th and 27th, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM both days, divided into LEED credit categories that address different impact areas of the built environment. The course includes lecture content but will also encourage student participation and the sharing of insights and expertise among the group. A full schedule and an introductory video will be shared with registered participants so they can become familiar with basic concepts prior to the start of class. Content covered will encompass: 

• Sustainable Site Development: Understanding the importance of sustainable site planning and design.

• Water Efficiency: Learning about water conservation and management practices.

• Energy Efficiency: Exploring energy-efficient building design and construction techniques.

• Materials Selection: Choosing materials that are environmentally friendly and sustainable.

• Indoor Environmental Quality: Focusing on creating a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

• Building Design and Construction: Covering various aspects of building design and construction that promote sustainable practices.

• LEED Process: Understanding the LEED certification process, credit categories, and best practices for environmental design. 

Value for the Attendee

• The LEED Green Associate course is designed to be of interest and value for personnel with responsibilities related to the success of any green building project.

• Credentialed staff will gain the knowledge and confidence to oversee and manage consultants who are hired to guide the LEED certification process.

• Those entering the field of green building are often expected to have this credential.

• Participants who are unemployed or who have an employer who will not cover the cost of the prep course and exam may be eligible for financial assistance 

Expectations

Your instructor will send preview materials in advance. This will ensure that students have a basic understanding of how the LEED rating system is designed as well as key terms definitions. 

It should also be noted that this course is designed to lay a successful foundation for your preparation for the exam. Additional self-guided studying is necessary, and the instructor will provide study resources as well as suggestions for other successful strategies. 

Pricing includes the cost of the prep course and the exam. The exam must be scheduled to take place before April 30, 2026. 

Reach out to Leslie Montgomery at GBA if:

• You are trying to determine if this course is right for you

• You are in need of a scholarship for this training

• You do not have an employer who will cover the cost of your training and/or exam and you would like to discuss whether financial assistance is available