As you prepare for the ASWB exam, there’s no single source more important than the NASW Code of Ethics.
Ethics questions make up a significant portion of the exam—but that’s not the whole story. The Code of Ethics also informs questions across the board: practice models, case scenarios, even human development. That makes a deep understanding essential.
So how do you learn it?
Begin by reading the NASW Code of Ethics in full. Don’t skim. This document lays out the values, principles, and standards that guide the profession. As you go, take notes—especially on sections you’re less familiar with.
Consider creating a study guide or flash cards focused on core principles like service, dignity, integrity, and social justice.
We’ve been writing about ethics for years—more than a decade of blog posts are tagged ethics. These aren’t just summaries—they include:
Realistic exam-style practice questions
Everyday examples that bring the Code to life
Walkthroughs of tricky exam items
Start exploring from this ethics tag page.
Practice questions help bridge the gap between theory and application. The more you test yourself, the more comfortable you’ll be on exam day.
On SWTP, you’ll find:
Ethics questions in every full-length exam
A dedicated Ethics Booster test for deeper focus
Reviewing your results gives insight into what you’ve mastered and what needs another look.
Each time you take a practice test, don’t just check your score—review every explanation. Where did you second-guess yourself? What rationale didn’t click? Go back to the Code and revisit that section.
Discussion helps too. Talk through ethics questions with a study group or instructor. The more you actively work with this material, the more it will stick.
Ethics isn't just one more content area—it's the backbone of social work, and the exam. Learning the Code means learning how to think like a social worker. And that’s exactly what the exam is designed to test.
You’ve got this. Happy studying and good luck!
Right now, get SWTP's online practice exams at a reduced price. Just $39. Get additional savings when buying more than one exam at a time-- less than $30 per exam!
Keep going till you pass. Extensions are free.
To receive our free study guide and get started!