Review the information below before purchasing or launching a NASFAA Professional Credential Test. This page outlines testing policies, explains what to expect throughout your testing window, and provides guidance on common questions about credential testing.

Purchasing a Credential Test

To access a credential test, you must first qualify through an approved NASFAA pathway and purchase the current version of the credential test.

If you qualify by attending an authorized event training, you’ll be granted automatic access to the credential test(s) covered, no purchase required. You’ll receive an email regarding your access following the event. 

If your institution purchased NASFAA's Unlimited Professional Credentials Package, eligible credential tests will automatically display a price of $0 during checkout; no promo code is required.

Please note: You cannot purchase a test for other staff members or colleagues. The test is linked to the purchaser's email address, so the individual taking the test must be the purchaser. 

Testing Ethics & Expectations

NASFAA Professional Credentials represent a candidate’s individual knowledge and expertise. To protect the integrity and value of NASFAA credentials, all candidates are expected to complete credential tests independently and follow all testing expectations:

• Complete the test independently, without assistance from another person or the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including but not limited to generative AI platforms, chatbots, or automated answer-generating services.
• Do not share test questions or answers with any person or with artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including but not limited to generative AI platforms, chatbots, or automated answer-generating services, verbally or through any other method.
• Use your own knowledge and judgment when completing the assessment.

Candidates may reference available materials during the credential test; however, relying heavily on outside resources may reduce the time available to complete the assessment. Each test has a 90-minute completion time.

For guidance on appropriate study resources, the use of AI tools, and acceptable support while preparing for your credential test, review NASFAA's Guidance on Study Resources and Use of AI. 

Actions that do not align with NASFAA's testing expectations may result in revocation of a credential and/or referral for consideration of violations of NASFAA's Statement of Ethical Principles or Code of Conduct. Additional consequences may be determined by NASFAA and the ethics commission.

Testing Window & Attempts

Each credential test includes:

• Two testing attempts
• A 40-day testing window beginning on the date of purchase
• 90 minutes to complete your test once launched 

If you do not pass on your first attempt, you may use your second attempt at any time within the same 40-day testing window. You are strongly encouraged to take time for additional review before launching your second attempt.

If you are not successful after both attempts, you may purchase an additional testing opportunity, which includes a new 40-day testing window and two additional attempts. Before retesting, we encourage you to take time to review your Diagnostic Report, revisit study materials, and strengthen your understanding of the subject area to improve your chances of success.

Test access expires at 11:59 p.m. (local time) on the expiration date displayed in the online testing center.

Testing Extensions

Candidates are expected to complete their credential test within the 40-day testing window. However, NASFAA understands that unexpected circumstances may occasionally prevent a candidate from completing their test within the available timeframe.

If circumstances prevent you from completing your test before your testing window expires, please contact the NASFAA Credentialing Team as soon as possible to discuss your options. When possible, candidates should reach out before their testing window ends.

Extension requests are reviewed individually based on the circumstances provided and are not automatically granted. For information about the extension request process, review the Credential Test Extension Request Policy.

Preparing for Your Test

Before launching your assessment, we recommend that you:

• Review the resources provided through your qualifying training activity (if applicable).
• Review the complimentary Credential Test Preview for your topic.
• Visit the Credential Candidate Resources Center for study materials, testing guidance, and additional preparation resources, including federal sources.
• Review NASFAA's Guidance on Study Resources and Use of AI  to understand expectations for preparing for and completing your credential test.

Candidates are expected to understand all aspects of the credential subject area, regardless of any temporary waivers or regulatory flexibilities announced by the U.S. Department of Education.

Candidates taking a credential test or the certification exam on or after May 1 should be familiar with all applicable laws, regulations, and guidance in effect for the following academic year. Throughout the year, if any Title IV rules change, relevant test questions are reviewed and revised shortly thereafter.

Candidates are expected to know the rules as of the date the test or exam is being taken (i.e., regardless of when the test was purchased or granted).

During Your Test

Credential tests contain 45-55 multiple-choice questions, some of which are scenario-based. Some credential tests may include a small number of unscored trial questions that are being evaluated for future use.

These trial questions:

• Do not affect your score.
• Include additional testing time when applicable.
• Are not identified separately within the assessment.

For Return of Title IV Funds credential tests, please use the U.S. Department of Education Return of Title IV Aid Worksheets for credit-hour and clock-hour programs. A calculator is also recommended (one is provided through the testing center, but you may wish to have your own handheld).

Technical Information

NASFAA partners with the Meazure Exam Platform to deliver our online tests. 

The credential testing center undergoes scheduled maintenance on the first Saturday of each month from 8:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. ET. During this time, the testing center will be unavailable.

Please plan your testing accordingly and avoid waiting until your expiration date to complete your assessment.

Test Results

Immediately after completing your credential test, you'll receive a pass/fail result. Rather than a numeric score, you'll receive a Diagnostic Report that highlights your performance in each content area. Use this feedback to identify areas for additional study, especially if you plan to retest.

Renewing Your Credential

NASFAA Professional Credentials do not expire. 

Because federal student aid regulations evolve over time, NASFAA recommends renewing each credential every three years, or sooner following significant regulatory changes.

To renew a credential, simply pass the current version of the credential test for that subject area. Each date you pass the test is listed in your Honor Roll and on your digital badge.

Testing Accommodations

NASFAA is committed to providing reasonable testing accommodations for candidates with documented disabilities.

Please review the Exam Accommodation Policy for eligibility requirements and instructions for requesting accommodations before scheduling or launching your credential test.

Need Assistance?

Contact the NASFAA Credentialing Team. We're happy to help you successfully navigate the credential testing process.