NASM CNC Exam Retake Policy Explained
For candidates pursuing the Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) credential, the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) includes three exam attempts with the initial program enrollment. These three attempts must be completed within the 365-day enrollment window, which begins from your purchase date. The exam itself is an open-book, online assessment with 100 multiple-choice questions and a 90-minute time limit. A passing score of 70% or higher is required. This generous initial retake allowance is designed to provide sufficient opportunity to succeed, but knowing the full policy is crucial for proper planning.
What if you need more than three attempts?
Should you fail to pass the CNC exam within the three initial attempts or let your 365-day enrollment period expire, you have several options for continuing your certification journey.
- Purchase Additional Retests: If all three initial attempts are unsuccessful, you can purchase more retests by contacting NASM Member Services. These additional attempts come with a fee, and it is best to contact NASM directly for the most current pricing.
- Purchase an Exam Extension: If your 365-day enrollment period has expired, but you haven't used all your attempts or need more time to study, you can purchase an extension. This extends your eligibility to take the exam for an additional period.
- NASM One Subscription: As an alternative, an active NASM One subscription waives all retest and extension fees for courses you are enrolled in. This can be a cost-effective option for those who may need multiple attempts or additional time.
Comparing Standard Options vs. NASM One Benefits
For a clearer picture, consider the financial differences between standard retake/extension options and the NASM One subscription. The standard path requires individual fees for each additional action, while the NASM One membership bundles these benefits into a single subscription cost.
| Feature | Standard Retake/Extension | NASM One Subscription |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Attempts | 3 attempts included with program enrollment | 3 attempts included with program enrollment |
| Additional Retests | Purchase individually via Member Services (fees apply) | Unlimited retests included while subscription is active (fees waived) |
| Exam Extension | Purchase individually via Member Services (fees apply) | Unlimited extensions included while subscription is active (fees waived) |
| Cost Model | Pay-per-retest and pay-per-extension | Single subscription fee covers multiple benefits |
| Best For | Candidates confident they will pass within a few attempts | Candidates seeking maximum flexibility and cost certainty |
How to prepare for a retake
If you find yourself needing to retest, a strategic approach can maximize your chances of success. Here are some steps to take:
- Analyze your previous attempt: Did you run out of time? Were there specific subject areas that were more challenging? Understanding your weak points is the first step toward improvement.
- Use the study materials effectively: The NASM CNC course is open-book, so you have access to the material during the exam. Review the course content thoroughly and become familiar with its layout so you can quickly find relevant information during the exam.
- Review the content: Focus your studying on the areas where you performed poorly. Create summaries, flashcards, or practice questions to reinforce your knowledge.
- Contact Member Services: For specific questions or to address technical issues, reaching out to NASM Member Services is recommended.
- Consider purchasing an extension: If you feel you need more time to prepare, a course extension is a viable option to avoid rushing into another attempt.
The retake process step-by-step
Once you have prepared for your retest, follow these steps to schedule your next attempt:
- Contact NASM Member Services: You can reach them by phone to discuss your options for purchasing a retest or extension.
- Purchase the necessary retest or extension: If not using NASM One, you will need to pay the applicable fees.
- Receive confirmation: Once your purchase is complete, you will receive confirmation of your renewed eligibility.
- Schedule your exam: Access your student portal to schedule your next attempt at your convenience.
Conclusion
In summary, the NASM Certified Nutrition Coach exam provides candidates with three initial attempts to pass within a 365-day enrollment period. Should these attempts be insufficient, additional retests can be purchased individually, or fees can be waived by subscribing to NASM One. By understanding the retake policy and creating a strategic plan, you can confidently pursue your NASM CNC certification. For official information and current pricing, always consult NASM directly via their website: www.nasm.org.
