NASFAA Professional Credential Candidate Resources Center
Preparing for a NASFAA Professional Credential test? NASFAA offers a variety of training materials and reference resources to help you build the knowledge and confidence needed for success. Credential tests assess your understanding of federal student aid regulations and guidance, and these resources can support your preparation.
- NASFAA Training Materials
- Test Previews
- Federal Resources
- Prepare with Confidence
- Helpful Testing Information
NASFAA Training Materials
NASFAA’s training and professional development offerings are designed to provide foundational knowledge and regulatory context aligned with credential content areas.
Self-Study Guides
NASFAA Self-Study Guides provide structured, in-depth content covering key Title IV topics. Designed for independent learners, each Self-Study Guide includes multiple lessons and a variety of exercises to reinforce the content, making it a strong starting point for credential test preparation. Depending on your membership level at NASFAA, some or all Self-Study Guides may be included in your membership.
NASFAA U Online Courses
NASFAA U online courses offer facilitated instruction to help you become more proficient and more knowledgeable in various areas of financial aid administration. These courses include interactive learning activities and knowledge checks to reinforce understanding of regulatory requirements.
Webinars
Live and on-demand webinars provide timely updates and focused discussions on specific Title IV topics relevant to your credential preparation. While webinars do not serve as a direct pathway to sit for a credential test, they offer valuable supplemental knowledge that can support your preparation.
In addition to NASFAA’s training materials, consider exploring training events offered by your state and regional associations. View NASFAA's Events Calendar to explore upcoming training opportunities in your area.
Test Previews
Before launching your credential test, review the free Test Preview for your topic. Each preview includes sample questions that reflect the format, content, and question types you'll encounter during the assessment, helping you become familiar with the testing experience before you begin.
Credential tests include a combination of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions. Reviewing the preview in advance can help you better understand how questions are presented and what knowledge and skills are assessed.
Federal Resources
Credential tests are based on federal law, regulations, and U.S. Department of Education guidance. Candidates are strongly encouraged to review primary source materials, including:
Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended
- U.S. Code (Title 20, Chapter 28)
- NASFAA’s Student Aid Reference Desk
Federal Regulations
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR)
- NASFAA’s Compiled Title IV Regulations
U.S. Department of Education Guidance
- Federal Registers
- Dear Colleague Letters
- Electronic Announcements
- Federal Student Aid Handbook
- FSA Knowledge Center Handbooks, Manuals, and Guides
- Studentaid.gov resources and FAFSA® forms
Staying current with federal guidance is especially important, as policies and procedures may change from year to year. 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).
Prepare with Confidence
In addition to content review, test readiness strategies can make a meaningful difference in your performance. Visit NASFAA’s Strategies for Managing Test Anxiety webpage for practical tips on reducing stress, improving focus, and approaching your credential test with confidence.
Helpful Testing Information
- Each credential test topic includes up to two attempts, both of which expire 40 calendar days after purchase.
- The tests will contain a combination of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions.
- Once you begin a test, you have 90 minutes to complete your test.
- You are allowed to reference materials during the credential test, but reliance on such materials may result in the expiration of the limited time granted to complete the test.
- Exam accommodations are available upon request. Please review our Exam Accommodation Policy for more information.
- You must complete the test independently, without assistance from any other person or the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including but not limited to generative AI platforms, chatbots, or automated answer-generating services.
- You must 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 via any other method.
- After you complete a test, the system lets you know whether you passed or not.
- Before taking your second attempt, take time for additional review.
- If you're unable to complete your test within the 40-day timeframe, you may be eligible for an extension. Please contact the NASFAA Credentialing Team to explain your circumstances and explore your options.
- View all testing policies and support information.
