Home Compare ASWB BSW vs NCE

Exam Comparison

ASWB BSW vs NCE

Comparing the ASWB Bachelor's Social Work Exam and the National Counselor Examination. Both fall under Behavioral Health. Both are covered by the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app.

ASWB BSW Overview → NCE Overview →

ASWB BSW vs NCE: At a Glance

Detail ASWB BSW NCE
Full Name ASWB Bachelor's Social Work Exam National Counselor Examination
Governing Body ASWB NBCC
Number of Questions 170 200
Time Limit 4 hours 4 hours
Passing Score Scaled (approx. 97-106, varies by state) Scaled (varies by state, typically 97-102)
Exam Fee $260 USD $295 USD
Category Behavioral Health Behavioral Health
C3RT App Behavioral Health Exam Prep Behavioral Health Exam Prep

Content Areas Compared

ASWB BSW Domains

  • Human Development, Diversity and Behavior in the Environment(28%)
  • Assessment and Intervention Planning(24%)
  • Interventions with Clients/Client Systems(35%)
  • Professional Relationships, Values, and Ethics(13%)

NCE Domains

  • Professional Practice and Ethics
  • Intake, Assessment, and Diagnosis
  • Areas of Clinical Focus
  • Treatment Planning
  • Counseling Skills and Interventions
  • Core Counseling Attributes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ASWB BSW and NCE?

The ASWB BSW (ASWB Bachelor's Social Work Exam) is administered by ASWB and consists of 170 questions. The NCE (National Counselor Examination) is administered by NBCC and consists of 200 questions. Both are Behavioral Health credentials.

Can I take both the ASWB BSW and the NCE?

Yes, the ASWB BSW and NCE are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (ASWB and NBCC respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.

Which should I take first, ASWB BSW or NCE?

The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The ASWB BSW is offered by ASWB with a passing score of Scaled (approx. 97-106, varies by state), while the NCE is offered by NBCC with a passing score of Scaled (varies by state, typically 97-102). Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.

Does C3RT cover both the ASWB BSW and the NCE?

Yes. Both the ASWB BSW and NCE are covered in the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app for iOS and Mac.

The ASWB Bachelor's Social Work Exam (ASWB BSW) is administered by ASWB. The National Counselor Examination (NCE) is administered by NBCC. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.