What term refers to the criteria that must be met to qualify for the certification examination?

The term that refers to the criteria that must be met to qualify for the certification examination is "Eligibility." This term specifically denotes the set of conditions or qualifications that a candidate must satisfy in order to be allowed to take the certification exam.

In the context of certification processes, eligibility often includes aspects such as educational background, work experience, or other prerequisites that ensure a candidate possesses the necessary foundational knowledge and skills.

While "Qualifications," "Requirements," and "Standards" may also relate to the idea of what is needed to achieve certification, they do not specifically convey the idea of being allowed to participate in the examination. "Qualifications" usually refer to the skills or credentials a person has, "Requirements" could imply mandatory criteria but is a broader term, and "Standards" typically suggest a level of quality or attainment rather than the prerequisites for eligibility to take a test. Thus, "Eligibility" is the most accurate term in this context.