Housing Counseling Training, Testing and Certification

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Housing Counseling (OHC), is conducting market research to identify contractors capable of providing comprehensive training, testing, and certification services for housing counselors nationwide. The procurement seeks a contractor to maintain and administer two standardized exams: the HUD Housing Counselor Exam and the HECM Counselor Exam, along with associated practice exams, training modules, and an online testing platform that meets FedRAMP security standards. Key requirements include developing a cloud-based website, collecting exam fees, providing both in-person and online testing options, supporting ADA accommodations, and employing subject matter experts including psychometricians and adult education specialists. The government will evaluate potential contractors based on their ability to provide services consistent with the scope, apply comprehensive corporate resources, implement effective project management plans, and deliver services under a performance-based acquisition contract. Responses to this market research notice are due September 11, 2025, by 12:00 PM ET, with all questions required to be submitted in writing via email.

This procurement opportunity does not utilize any set-aside designation and may be conducted through either small business set-aside or full and open competition depending on market research results. No current incumbent contractors or potential award values are specified in the available documentation. The contract structure includes one base year with four 12-month option years, with HUD anticipating approximately 3,000 Housing Counselor exams and 230 HECM exams annually. Performance standards are stringent, requiring zero deviation from most requirements and imposing potential monthly contract value disincentives of 1% for non-compliance. The contractor will be responsible for quarterly review and updates of exam materials, indicating an ongoing commitment to maintaining current and relevant certification standards. The procurement falls under NAICS code 611430 for Professional and Management Development Training services.