What is a certification exam?

Certification examinations are designed to measure proficiency in certain knowledge, skills, and abilities.
The preceptor certification exam is comprised of 150 multiple choice questions that assesses an individual’s understanding of all aspects of preceptoring.

The exam is proctored, so your must have a computer and a computer monitor equipped with a camera. The individual registered for the exam must be the one who is actually taking the exam and you cannot use any study aids or materials (including the internet) during the exam. Both you and your computer screen will be monitored during the duration of the exam.

Why should I take the certification exam?

In addition to testing your knowledge, skills, and abilities as a preceptor, the preceptor certification exam is one of the core requirements to become a certified preceptor (CP). You must successfully pass the certification exam before applying to become a certified preceptor (CP).

How many questions make up the certification exam?

The preceptor certification exam is comprised of 150 multiple choice questions.

How long do I have to complete the certification exam?

Three (3) hours.

What is considered passing for the certification exam?

A score of 75% or better.

Do I receive anything when I pass the certification exam?

Yes, a Certificate of Completion stating that you have successfully passed the preceptor certifying exam.
An electronic copy (PDF) of the certificate will be emailed to you.
The certificate is also available in your account when logged in on the Preceptor Training Program website.

Who can take the certification exam?

Anyone. There are no restrictions on who may sit for the exam.

When are certification exams scheduled?

Every month, on the first Saturday of the month, from 12 – 3PM ET (9AM – 12PM PT).
You can register for an exam HERE.

Where are the certification exams administered?

The preceptor certification exam is offered remotely and can be taken anywhere.
The exam is proctored, so you must have a computer and a computer monitor equipped with a camera. The individual registered for the exam must be the one who is actually taking the exam and you cannot use any study aids or materials (including the internet) during the exam. Both you and your computer screen will be monitored during the exam.

What happens if I fail the certification exam?

If you do not score a 75% or better on the preceptor certification exam, you will be notified via email that you did not pass.
You will not receive a Certificate of Completion.

You must wait a minimum of three (3) months before registering to take the certification exam again.

An alternate version of the exam will be administered.

Is the certification exam required to become a certified preceptor (CP)?

Yes. You must pass the preceptor certification exam to be eligible to apply to become a certified preceptor (CP).

How much does the certification exam cost?

$99.95.

What resources are recommended in helping prepare for the certification exam?

Both the Preceptor Training Program itself (all 25 modules) and The Core Curriculum for Preceptor Advancement: Preceptor Specialty Development (Joyce W. Roth, Senior Editor) are excellent resources to review in preparing to take the preceptor certification exam.

The Preceptor Training Program can be found HERE.
Digital and hard copies of the text–The Core Curriculum for Preceptor Advancement: Preceptor Specialty Development–can be found HERE.

Are refunds offered for the certification exam?

No, all purchases are final. No refunds are offered for the preceptor certification exam.