frequently asked questions
We strive to provide all relevant information on the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) website, however, if you have a question that is not addressed elsewhere on the site or below, please contact us.
exam eligibility questions
What are the eligibility requirements to sit for the board exam?
- Please click here for full details on determining exam eligibility
I completed a training program x number of years ago. Do I qualify to sit for the board exam?
- You can verify your training program’s approval and approval start date by clicking here. The earliest completion date that is accepted is listed on the program profile.
- If it has been more than 18 months since you completed your training, we recommend you contact your program to let them know you intend to sit for the board exam to ensure you have the correct proof of completion form to verify eligibility.
I have an advanced degree, license, and/or experience in the field. Do I still need to complete an NBHWC Approved Training Program?
- Yes. Anyone wishing to become board certified must first complete an NBHWC Approved Training Program. NBHWC Approved Training Programs have been reviewed and approved based on competencies taught, contact time with students, faculty requirements, and practical skills development and assessment. There are no exceptions to this eligibility requirement. You can find a list of training programs that hold NBHWC approval here.
When can I start my NBHWC Coaching Log?
- No sessions can be included on the coaching log until you pass a Practical Skills Assessment within an NBHWC Approved Program
- The exact date you can start your personal coaching log will vary by training program. Please contact your NBHWC Approved Training Program for the exact date. This is an important step as your exam application will not be approved if your log contains dates prior to the start date provided by your NBHWC Approved Program.
Are there ADA accommodations for the test?
- Yes. If you have a documented disability that effects your ability to sit for this exam and are covered under the ADA, please request accommodations when you apply for the exam.
- Additional information can be found here.
- Please note all accommodation documentation must be submitted prior to the exam application deadline.
- You can watch a short video with a step-by-step guide to upload your application documents here.
How do I upload my documents?
- Watch a short video for a step-by-step guide to upload your application documents here.
taking the exam questions
What is a Candidate ID number?
- This is a unique number that is assigned to you upon completing your exam registration.
- Your Candidate ID Number can be accessed by logging in at www.mynbme.org and selecting “My Exams”.
What if the name on my scheduling permit does not match my government-issued identification?
- If the name listed on your Scheduling Permit differs from your name as it appears on your identification, you will not be able to take the test. Changes or corrections can be made up to seven business days before your scheduled testing appointment. Submit a request via your MyNBME account (www.MyNBME.org) as follows:
- On the homepage or “My Exams” page, click on the “Registration ID“ associated with the exam requiring the name change.
- Scroll down to the “Get Help Now” section and click “Create a Case.”
- Enter “Name Change” as the subject and type your request in the “Description” field.
- Click “Save.”
- Your updated permit will be available within five business days after the name change or correction has been completed.
Where are the testing centers?
- Please use the “locate” button at the link below to find the testing centers in your area.
https://www.prometric.com/test-takers/search/hwccp
How do I schedule my exam?
- Once you are approved to take the exam, you will receive an email notifying you of your eligibility. Within five business days of receiving that email, you will receive an email from NBME notifying you that your Scheduling Permit is available. Your permit contains the instructions for scheduling your exam with a Prometric Test Center, and will be available in your myNBME portal.
How do I reschedule my exam?
- An exam can be rescheduled within the same testing window by following the instructions for contacting Prometric as they appear on your Scheduling Permit. Exams cannot be rescheduled to different testing windows. To sit in a future exam window, you must fully cancel your current exam application and reapply in the desired window.
I need to cancel my exam registration. What should I do?
- Log in to the National Board of Medical Examiners at www.mynbme.org.
- Find your exam on the homepage or “My Exams” page and click on “Registration ID.”
- Scroll down to the “Get Help Now” section and click “Create a Case.”
- Enter a subject and description of your request.
- Click “Save.”
- If you have scheduled an exam appointment at Prometric, you must also cancel that appointment. Both steps must be complete to be eligible for a refund. Please review the fee policy for more information on refunds and associated deadlines.
- Requests for cancellation must be received prior to the deadline in the fee policy. Requests that are received after the deadline are not eligible for refund.
I am eligible for a refund. When will I receive it?
- Upon completion, a refund request is generally processed within three weeks. After processing, the refund should be applied within 7-10 business days.
When will I receive my score report?
- The release date of test results can vary for numerous reasons, but typically can be expected about eight weeks after the test window closes.
Can I request a score recheck?
- Instructions for requesting a score recheck can be found on the Score Verification Form.