How To Prepare For A Social Work Exam
Updated September 14, 2023
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Studying for Social Work Licensure
Candidates for social work licensure must meet education and examination requirements. Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) need at least a master's degree. However, licensed social workers (LSWs) in some states need only a bachelor's degree. Licensure candidates must pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam and a state-specific ethics exam. Candidates must also undergo a criminal background check.
Aspiring LSWs and LCSWs can study independently or take an exam-preparation class. Individuals can access many free and low-cost exam-prep resources online. This guide provides links to study guides and explores the process of obtaining licensure for social workers.
What Is Social Work Licensure?
The social work licensure process ensures that LSWs and LCSWs provide quality service. Master's degree-holders can take ASWB's master's, advanced generalist, and clinical exams. Recent graduates can take the master's exam. The latter two exams require at least two years of supervised work experience.
After submitting an initial license application with their state, candidates sign up for an exam. ASWB exams take place at authorized Pearson VUE testing centers. Questions vary by exam. The master's exam covers human development, assessment and intervention, and professional relationships. Candidates who pass the ASWB exam and state ethics exam submit scores to their state licensure board. Application processing times vary.
LSWs and LCSWs should research their state's social work licensure renewal requirements. California LCSWs must earn 18 continuing education credit hours during their first two-year renewal cycle. Later renewals require 36 credit hours.
Featured Online Degrees in Social Work
Social Work Licensure Exam
Each social work licensure exam features unique costs and questions. The following section discusses the master's exam. Recent graduates take this exam to enter the social work field and gain the experience necessary to obtain LCSW licensure. Candidates should consult the ASWB website for the latest details.
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LSW Exam Length
Like all ASWB exams, the computer-based master's exam lasts four hours. The exam does not pause for breaks, which individuals may request by raising their hand. Test-takers may only use the restroom closest to the testing room. Pearson VUE requires test-takers to carry their photo ID when visiting the restroom.
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LSW Exam Questions
The master's exam features 170 multiple-choice questions. However, 20 questions spread throughout the exam do not affect the final score. The exam covers many content areas in four social work domains. Questions assess test-takers' knowledge of basic human needs, medical terminology, evidence-based practices, and service delivery methods.
Social work licensure candidates can increase their chance of passing on the first try by studying with the ASWB content outlines guide.
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LSW Exam Cost
As of March 2022, ASWB charges $230 each for the associate, bachelor's, and master's exams. The advanced generalist and clinical exams cost $260 each. ASWB accepts major credit cards and waives exam fees for specific groups.
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LSW Exam Registration
Exam-takers first create an ASWB online account. Candidates answer demographic and exam-eligibility questions. Individuals should ensure their photo ID and exam registration form use the same name. After paying, candidates receive an exam authorization form and select their testing location and time.
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What to Bring to the LSW Exam
Test-takers must bring two forms of identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Pearson VUE provides a locker for prohibited items, including cell phones, coats, and jewelry. Test-takers may also leave these items in their car. Pearson VUE allows comfort aids in the testing area, including mobility devices, earplugs, and tissues.
Social Work Practice Exams and Prep
Online Practice Test - Association of Social Work Boards
As of March 2022, ASWB sells an $85 practice exam. This exam helps individuals simulate Pearson VUE's testing conditions and software. Users can access their scored practice exam for 30 days to review incorrect responses and read in-depth rationales.Free Practice Tests - Social Work Test Prep
Site visitors can take quizzes and learn about social work careers. Users with an account can access an academic review plan and full-length practice exams. The website also provides state-specific law and ethics exam resources, including a candidate handbook. Licensure candidates can sign up for personalized tutoring sessions.ASWB Practice Test - Study.com
Study.com offers free practice tests for each ASWB exam. Licensure candidates can use in-depth results to create a study plan. Affordable Study.com resources include an exam-preparation class featuring hundreds of lessons. More than 90% of Study.com users report passing an ASWB exam on their first try.ASWB® MSW Master of Social Work Practice Test - Pocket Prep
Pocket Prep offers free and low-cost exam-preparation resources. The website's six quiz types include question of the day, quick 10 quiz, and timed quiz. After taking the Pocket Prep practice exam, candidates can attempt quizzes on their missed questions and weakest areas. Pocket Prep tracks users' improvement.ASWB Practice Exam - Therapist Development Center
The Therapist Development Center website provides practice exam questions, a full-length practice exam, and career development resources. Exam-preparation classes for social work licensure candidates cost $275-$295 as of March 2022. The center reports that 95% of its class participants pass the ASWB exam on their first try.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Work Licensure
LSWs work with clients in nonclinical settings and perform more administrative tasks than LCSWs. LCSWs need additional education and training and can provide more client services than LSWs.
Some entry-level positions require only a bachelor's degree in social work. However, aspiring LCSWs need a master's degree and supervised experience.
In many states, LSWs need only a bachelor's degree. These social work licensure candidates must pass an ASWB examination and their state's ethics examination.
The LCSW credential is the highest level of social work licensing. LCSWs can work for themselves, while other social workers must work for an employer.
Additional Resources for Social Workers
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