Criminology Board Exam Guide: Subjects, Passing Score and Requirements

The Criminologist Licensure Exam is a three-day PRC board exam covering six subjects. To pass, you need a weighted average of at least 75% with no subject below 60%. The exam fee is ₱900, and you apply through PRC's LERIS portal.

PRC had not announced the 2027 dates when we last checked. In 2026 the exam ran on February 4 to 6 and August 1 to 3. PRC released the 2026 calendar in November 2025, so watch for the 2027 schedule around November to December 2026.

The six subjects

Your review should cover all six, because one weak subject can fail you even with a good average:

• Criminal Law and Jurisprudence.
• Law Enforcement Administration.
• Crime Detection and Investigation.
• Forensic Science.
• Criminology.
• Correctional Administration.

Requirements for first-timers

Start early, since clearances and school documents take time:

• PSA birth certificate, plus PSA marriage certificate for married female applicants.
• Transcript of Records with scanned picture, Special Order number (unless not required), and the remark 'For Board Examination Purposes'.
• College diploma showing your date of graduation and SO number.
• CHED Certification, Authentication and Verification (CAV).
• Valid NBI clearance and Regional Trial Court clearance.
• Two certificates of good moral character: one from your Criminology Dean and one from your barangay.

How to apply

1. Gather your documents, then create or log in to your LERIS account at online.prc.gov.ph. Use your exact name as it appears on your PSA birth certificate.

2. Choose the Licensure Examination for Criminologists, the exam date and your testing center, then upload a recent 2x2 photo.

3. Pay the ₱900 fee through LERIS and keep your reference number.

4. Print your application form and have your documents verified at your chosen PRC office on your appointment date.

5. Get your Notice of Admission. Two to three working days before the exam, check your school and room assignment on the PRC website.

What passing gets you

You register as a Registered Criminologist and receive your PRC Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification Card. RA 11131 and its IRR give registered criminologists preference in appointments to criminal justice agencies and allow lateral entry into the PNP, BJMP and BFP, among other privileges.

If you have failed the exam five times, consecutive or cumulative, you need proof that you completed a refresher course from a CHED-recognized institution.