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Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DO I REGISTER FOR AN NCSF CERTIFICATION EXAM?

Exam candidates must register for their respective Certification Exam either over the phone with an NCSF representative, through the online registration process, or through the mail using the NCSF downloadable registration form. Upon registration for the exam, a unique eligibility number is generated and sent to the test candidate.

HOW MUCH DOES THE EXAM COST?

U.S. and Canada

  • First-time candidates $349.00
  • Re-take candidates $99.00

International

  • First-time candidates $349.00
  • Re-take candidates $299.00

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR THE CERTIFICATION EXAM?

Certification candidates are not required to participate in an NCSF educational program to qualify to sit for the Board Examination. Although the organization offers education courses and preparation materials for the exam, candidates may choose to engage in primary education offered by other organizations, colleges or universities. In addition, the Board Exam is based on universally accepted exercise theory, principles and guidelines, which allow candidates the option to choose to utilize study materials not offered by the NCSF. Some additionally recommended text can be found in the Candidate Handbook.

WHERE DO I TAKE MY EXAM?

The exam is administered by appointment at Prometric testing centers. With over 1000 testing centers operating in 83 countries as well as an online option, exam candidates are provided with convenience and full access to the latest testing technology and award-winning customer service.

Taking the Exam Online (System Requirements)

To take the certification exam remotely you will need to ensure your computer meets the following system requirements:

  • Operating System: Windows 8.1 or Higher, Mac OS 13.3.1 Higher
  • Web Browser: Current version of chrome
  • Internet Connection Speed: 0.5 mbs or greater
  • Screen Resolution: 1024 x 768 is the minimum resolution required

HOW LONG ARE THE EXAMS?

You will have three hours to complete your chosen the 150 question multiple choice exam.

HOW OFTEN ARE EXAMS OFFERED?

Certification Exams are offered 6 days a week, year-round at the Prometric Testing Centers as well as online through their remote proctoring system. Exam candidates are not constrained to only a few test dates at remote locations. By teaming with Prometric, the NCSF is able to offer its Board Exams on-demand. The only time restriction within the entire process is that the exam must be taken within six months of the initial test registration date.

HOW DO I FIND A TESTING CENTER?

Locating the Prometric testing center closest to you can be done by selecting the “Exam Center Locations” option on the menu.

HOW DO I MAKE MY TESTING APPOINTMENT?

Upon registration for your Certification Exam, an eligibility email will be sent to you containing an eligibility number as well as the scheduling website and toll free number for Prometric. Making your appointment is as easy as calling the toll free number or logging on to their website.

HOW CAN I CHANGE MY APPOINTMENT?

Once your test appointment has been made, canceling or changing that date is possible. In order to do so, test candidates must directly contact Prometric within 72 hours (3 business days) of the scheduled appointment. The initial appointment must be cancelled and a new test date re-scheduled. The $299.00 test fee will be assessed by Prometric and becomes nonrefundable if the appointment is cancelled inside of 72 hours from the scheduled appointment. There are no exceptions once the exam is scheduled as that test seat is secured by Prometric.

WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE AT THE TESTING CENTER?

Plan to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled appointment to allow time for check-in procedures. Candidates who arrive late will not be allowed to test and will incur a penalty fee for lost computer time.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING for testing either online or at the center?

In order to sit for the exam with Prometric you will need to have at least one form of a government-issued, signature bearing, photo ID. Acceptable forms include a valid driver’s license, valid passport, official State or Government ID, or National Country ID card. No valid form of ID can be expired. Unacceptable forms include: Social Security card, birth certificate, or documents that are not originals (faxes or photocopies).

WHEN DO I GET MY TEST RESULTS?

Upon completion of the Certification Exam a Pass/Fail status will appear on screen and a Score Report will be emailed to you. Your exam results will automatically be sent to the NCSF.

WHAT DO I RECEIVE AFTER PASSING MY CERTIFICATION EXAM?

Upon successful completion of the Certification Exam you will receive a complete certification package. Included in your package will be a certificate suitable for framing, which indicates that you have met the certification standards set forth by The National Council on Strength and Fitness Board for Certification and have earned the respective credential. You will also receive an accompanying wallet-sized professional membership card signifying your certified status, and complete continuing education information. This package will be forwarded to those in the US and Canada within three weeks of passing the Exam. Internationally based students will be able to access their official digital diploma from their account.