The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) administers social work licensing exams at all levels in the U.S. and Canada. Have questions about how it all works? We've got answers!

Where do I go to register for the ASWB exam?

To register for the ASWB exam, you can visit the official website of ASWB at aswb.org. After completing your registration, ASWB will send you an Authorization to Test email within two days, which will include information about scheduling your testing appointment with PSI Exams. Exam fees are nonrefundable. (As of this writing, the  fee for Associate, Bachelors, or Masters exam is $230 and for Advanced Generalist or Clinical exam is $260).

What is the passing score for the ASWB exam? 

The ASWB exam is scored based on the number of questions answered correctly out of 150 scored questions. Generally, answering between 93 and 107 questions correctly (that’s about 65-70%) will earn you a passing score. Due to adjustments needed to correctly score different versions of the exam, ASWB does not provide a fixed number of correct answers required to pass.

Isn’t the exam 170 questions long?

Yes, the ASWB has 170 questions, but only 150 of those are scored. The other 20 are unscored questions the ASWB is trying out for possible use in future tests. Approach each question as if it is scored–there is no way to know which is which. You have four hours to complete the full 170 questions.

How long does it take to get ASWB exam results? 

Upon submitting your exam, you will immediately receive a Pass or Fail.  You’ll leave the testing center with an unofficial score report documenting the total number of questions you answered correctly. Your official score report will be available within two weeks of your test date.

How do I apply for accommodations?

Go to ASWB.org and search for “Nonstandard Testing Arrangements,” which provides guidance regarding accommodations for people with disabilities or for whom English is a second language.

What happens if I fail the ASWB exam? 

 If you fail the ASWB exam, you can retake it after a certain period of time has passed. The waiting period varies depending on your state or province’s licensing board.

What are some tips for preparing for the ASWB exam? 

Take advantage of study materials and practice exams (like those here at SWTP). Practice exams are especially helpful because they give you an idea of what to expect on test day both in exam content and in the actual experience of taking the test. Make sure you take care of yourself in the days leading up to the exam. Get plenty of rest, eat well, and exercise regularly.

More questions? Just write us. Happy studying and good luck on the exam!


April 12, 2023
Categories : 
  aswb