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The following information is distributed by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB)

Exam Information

ASWB (Association of Social Work Boards) develops and maintains four categories of social work licensure examinations; Basic, Masters, Advanced Generalist, and Clinical. Not every state uses all four levels, so candidates must be sure to check with individual boards to find out which examinations are appropriate for the state in which they are seeking licensure. Click here to visit the ASWB website, where you may find a list of State Social Work Boards and Licensure Levels.

Each examination contains 170 four-option multiple choice questions designed to measure minimum competencies at four categories of practice. Only 150 of the 170 items are scored; the remaining 20 questions are “pretest” items included to measure their effectiveness as items on future examinations. These pretest items are scattered randomly throughout the examination. Candidates have four hours to complete the test, which is administered electronically.

Special accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities. Additionally, many states offer arrangements for candidates whose first language is not English.

Registering for the Exam

The social work regulatory body responsible for issuing your social work license has developed criteria for who can take the examination, and in most jurisdictions, you will need to establish your eligibility before you register to take the test. Always check with your social work board before you begin the test registration process. Click here to visit the ASWB website, where you may find a list of State Social Work Boards.

It is extremely important that you know your jurisdiction's laws and regulations regarding the licensing process. These vary, as do the fees you may be required to pay, and the deadlines for when they are due. Always follow your jurisdiction's procedures.

All candidates should receive a copy of the ASWB Candidate Handbook, which will guide you through the registration process. Usually, your board sends this publication to you.

To register for your social work examination:

ASWB provides support for telephone communications with the hearing impaired. Hearing impaired candidates may contact the CRC through their local relay service by dialing toll free, 1-888-332-EXAM (332-3926).