NCE National Counselor Examination

NCE National Counselor Examination

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Master your NCE with 3 practice exams of 200 questions each pulled from a database of 800 questions. Immediate feedback after each question. Plus 1 certification style exam with gap analysis report to show areas of weakness.

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Price:  $60  $30 (30 day access)


Price:  $60  $30 (30 day access)

What I appreciate most about Plum Stone Prep’s online practice tests is their emulation of the real exam. Entering the exam room, I felt a strong sense of confidence in my grasp of the material, and upon leaving, I had no doubt that my investment of time had been thoroughly justified.
Janice B. New Jersey

What you get in this package

The Dude can help you prep! Getting ready for the NCE exam is enough to make even the most academically-minded person feel overwhelmed. It's easy to get lost in the weeds of obscure theories and terminology. However, you can breathe a sigh of relief once you take our confidence-building practice exams. We prepare you for the big test by breaking each topic down and providing feedback on each question so you can be truly ready.

In this package you get:

  • 3 practice exams with immediate feedback after each response
  • A Gap Analysis report at the end of the practice exams to show areas of weakness
  • 1 sample certification exam (answers not shown) that simulates the real exam 

The practice tests are filled with questions like the ones you’ll see on the actual NCE Exam on exam day. You will be able to prioritize your study efforts on your specific areas of weakness to optimize your time instead of randomly cramming. Our practice tests will help guide you through one of your biggest milestones. The NCE has met its match – go for it!

About the NCE National Counselor Examination

The NCE National Counselor Examination is a standardized examination administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). It is designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals seeking licensure as professional counselors. Here's a comprehensive overview of the NCE exam:

This exam is used by many state licensing boards as a requirement for licensure as a professional counselor. It ensures that candidates possess the necessary knowledge and competencies to practice counseling safely and effectively.

The NCE is a computer-based exam consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have a total of 4 hours to complete the exam.

Topics Include: 

  • Human growth and development
  • Social and cultural diversity
  • Counseling and helping relationships
  • Group counseling and group work
  • Career counseling
  • Assessment and testing
  • Research and program evaluation
  • Professional counseling orientation and ethical practice

NCE FAQs

What are the eligibility requirements?
The eligibility requirements for the NCE vary by state, but typically, candidates must hold a master's degree in counseling or a related field from an accredited institution and meet other state-specific requirements, such as supervised clinical experience.

What is the exam format?
The NCE is a computer-based exam consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have a total of 4 hours to complete the exam.

Is the NCE required for licensure in all states?
While many states use the NCE as part of their licensure requirements for professional counselors, not all states do. Some states may have their own licensure exams or additional requirements. It's essential to check with your state's licensing board to determine the specific requirements for licensure.

Can I take the NCE online from home?
Currently, the NCE is not available for online, remote, or at-home testing. The exam must be taken in person at an approved testing center. The NBCC is exploring the possibility of remote testing options, but no definitive plans have been announced as of early 2023.

What is the current cost to register for the NCE?
The fee for the NCE is $275 for the initial registration. If you need to reschedule or retake the exam, additional fees may apply. It's important to check the NBCC website for the most current fee information.

How long are NCE scores valid for licensure purposes?
The validity period of NCE scores for licensure purposes varies by state. Some states may accept scores for a specific number of years, while others may have no expiration date. It's crucial to check with your state's licensing board to determine their policy on the acceptance of NCE scores.

What study resources are available for the NCE?
The NBCC offers several official study resources, including a study guide. Take our practice exams with the Dude! Additionally, there are numerous third-party study materials, such as books, online courses, and study groups. 

How often is the NCE content outline updated?
The NBCC periodically reviews and updates the NCE content outline to ensure that it remains relevant and aligned with current counseling practices and standards. 

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