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What to Expect on Your Exam Day

It is important that you understand the content that will be covered during your exam. You should review the exam content outlines for your exam.

You can find out more detailed information about the exam format and how it is scored by reviewing the Foundations of the NBCOT exam.

Do You Have Questions About Your Exam Day?

We recommend you review the common questions and answers before your big day.

View the Exam Tutorials in Advance

These tutorials demonstrate the functionality of the exams in the computer-based testing environment. Sample exam items are included at the end of the tutorial to enhance your experience; they are for practice only.

The tutorials occur at the beginning of your exam. Your exam time does not begin until you have completed the tutorials or you choose to skip them.

Candidates can revisit the tutorial at any time during the exam; however, the exam timer will continue to run.

What to Expect at the Test Center

NBCOT exams are administered at Pearson Professional Centers. You will have four hours to take the exam. Plan on being at the test center longer to complete all administrative requirements. This video will help you understand what to expect on your test day.

What to Expect at a Pearson Professional Center

Learn about what to expect on your test day when you arrive at the Pearson Professional Center.

Things to Remember As You Prepare for Your Exam Day

  • Make sure you have reviewed the exam handbook

  • Read through your ATT letter

  • Complete the tutorial for your exam

  • Know your test center

  • Stay calm and positive

  • Treat yourself after your exam and acknowledge the amount of work you have put in

Hear how recent OTRs and COTAs managed stress while they prepared for their exams.