NCE (NBCC) - National Counselor Examination
- Cost: $200
- Renews: Not required
COURSE FORMAT
About
The NCE is a comprehensive examination designed to assess knowledge, skills, and abilities deemed important for providing effective counseling services. It is used by the NBCC to certify counselors nationally and is also used by many states for counselor licensure.
Completion Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Eligibility and Certification Requirements
A Master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field from a regionally accredited institution.
Enrollment in or completion of a graduate program that meets NBCC’s coursework requirements.
Some states may have additional eligibility requirements for taking the NCE for licensure.
Course Format
Exam Format
The NCE consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, of which 160 are scored and 40 are pretest items.
The exam covers a range of topics relevant to counseling, including assessment and evaluation, counseling and helping relationships, human growth and development, professional counseling orientation and ethical practice, social and cultural diversity, career development, and research and program evaluation.
The exam can be taken either in-person at a Pearson VUE test center or online via remote proctoring.
Certification
Certification Process
Complete or be in the process of completing the required Master’s degree in counseling.
Apply to take the NCE through the NBCC, which involves submitting an application and paying an examination fee.
Register for and successfully pass the NCE.
Renewal
The NCE is not a certification that requires renewal. It is a licensure examination taken as a part of becoming a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and/or a state-licensed counselor.
Continuing Education
While the NCE itself does not require continuing education, maintaining NCC certification or a counseling license typically requires ongoing professional development and continuing education.
Other Resources
For specific information regarding the National Counselor Examination, including detailed application processes, examination content, and guidelines for licensure and certification, it is recommended to consult directly with the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The NBCC provides comprehensive resources, standards, and guidelines for the counseling profession.
Career Opportunities
Passing the NCE is a step toward becoming a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and/or obtaining state licensure as a professional counselor.
NCE passers work in various settings, including schools, colleges, private practices, healthcare facilities, and community organizations.
Related Certifications
Frequently asked questions
What organization offers the National Counselor Examination (NCE)?
The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) offers the National Counselor Examination (NCE).
Do I need to renew my NBCC National Counselor Examination (NCE)?
No you don't need to renew your NBCC National Counselor Examination (NCE). The NCE is a licensure exam taken as a part of becoming a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and/or a state-licensed counselor.
Can I earn a NBCC National Counselor Examination (NCE) online?
Yes you can earn a NBCC National Counselor Examination (NCE) online.
What topics are covered on the NBCC National Counselor Examination (NCE) exam?
The NBCC National Counselor Examination (NCE) exam covers various topics related to counseling, including assessment and evaluation, counseling and helping relationships, human growth and development, professional counseling orientation and ethical practice, social and cultural diversity, career development, and research and program evaluation.