Certification may be defined as the process by which a nongovernmental agency validates an individual’s knowledge related to their specialty. This process is based on standards that reflect current, real world, high quality practice with a focus on evidence-based practice and the application of clinical experience. Board certification for RNs is conducted by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Application to sit for the gerontological nursing certification exam is completed online through the ANCC's website.