The Eligibility Packet and review serve two purposes.
First, the GPC credential was developed to indicate recognition of high standards and successful experience as a grant professional. The review of eligibility documentation ensures that the individuals holding the GPC reflect those standards and experiences.
Second, reviewing the Eligibility Packet before an applicant sits for the exam helps to prevent novices from spending money unnecessarily. This would also apply to grant professionals who have been away from the field for many years, as the profession changes rapidly. The GPC Exam was designed for a grant professional with three to five years of experience in the field within the past five years. Test items within the exam pool are constantly reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure they are relevant to current practices. The move in 2012 to an electronic format also reflects the shift in the profession to electronic grant formats.