What is a certification exam?

Certification examinations are designed to measure proficiency in certain knowledge, skills, and abilities.

The Preceptor Certification Examination consists of 150 multiple choice questions that assess an individual’s understanding of all aspects of preceptoring.

The exam is proctored, so candidates 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 the candidate cannot use any study aids or materials (including the internet) during the exam. Both the candidate and the candidate’s computer screen will be monitored during the exam.

Why should I take the certification exam?

In addition to testing your knowledge, skills, and abilities as a preceptor, the Preceptor Certification Examination is the final requirement to becoming a Certified Preceptor (CP). You must successfully pass the certification exam to become a Certified Preceptor (CP).

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).

Is the certification exam required to renew my status as a Certified Preceptor (CP)?

No. Successfully passing the Preceptor Certification Examination is only required during the initial application to become a Certified Preceptor (CP).

Who can take the certification exam?

Eligibility to register and take the Preceptor Certification Examination requires candidates to have submitted an application to become a Certified Preceptor (CP), meet all application criteria, and have their application approved.

When are certification exams scheduled?

The Preceptor Certification Examination is offered once 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 Examination is offered remotely and can be taken anywhere.
The exam is proctored, so candidates 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 candidates cannot use any study aids or materials (including the internet) during the exam. Both the candidate and the candidate’s computer screen will be monitored during the exam.

What happens if I need to cancel my scheduled certification exam?

Registration for the Preceptor Certification Examination is final and nonrefundable. However, in certain extenuating circumstances, Preceptor Training & Certification may offer a refund or change of date—minus a $30 processing fee—if a request is submitted in writing at least 72 hours before the scheduled exam date.

How many questions make up the certification exam?

The Preceptor Certification Examination consists of 150 multiple choice questions.

How long do I have to complete the certification exam?

Candidates are allotted three (3) hours to complete the Preceptor Certification Examination.

What is considered passing for the certification exam?

Candidates must obtain a score of 75% or better to pass the Preceptor Certification Examination.

Do I receive anything when I pass the certification exam?

Yes, candidates receive a Certificate of Completion stating that they have successfully passed the Preceptor Certification Examination as well as their Board Certification.

Certificates are provided both electronically (PDF) via email and mailed to candidates (hardcopy). Certificates are also available in your account when logged in on the Preceptor Training & Certification website.

What happens if I fail the certification exam?

If you do not score a 75% or better on the Preceptor Certification Examination, you will be notified via email that you did not pass and 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.

How much does the certification exam cost?

The Preceptor Certification Examination is priced at $99.95.

There is a $10 late fee for registration within one (1) week of the exam date.

Is there an additional fee for late registration?

Yes, there is a $10 late fee for registration within one (1) week of the exam date.

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 Examination.

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 Examination.