National Certification Exam Candidates

I didn't pass my test yesterday.  I'm very frustrated because I studied to the best of my ability.  I put a huge amount of time into studying both the School Nursing Certification Review Book and the School Nursing Comprehensive Text.  I made flashcards, listened to flashcards on quizlet, and memorized everything I could. I also joined this study group through NASN.   My biggest frustration is that the test felt easy to me and I don't even know what I would do different to study for it again.  I was truly shocked that I didn't pass it.  The whole time I was taking it I felt like I was doing well.  Also, they don't tell you what you missed, and I feel like if this was truly a test as they say it is that "is a means for the specialty of school nursing to demonstrate and improve quality of care in the school setting" , then they would give you a better idea on how to improve for the next time.  I truly can't afford to pay for a $400 test and then buy $75 practice exams or $200 courses.

If anyone has any experience with this or any insight, please advise.  I'm at a loss.

Good morning,

I did not pass on my first attempt.  I was determined to be successful.  I did not wait after I failed.  I immediately took the test on the next testing cycle.  I wanted to ensure that the material was still fresh in my mind.  When I was preparing to take the test for the second time, I concentrated on the areas where I was weakest.  Then, I studied everything again as before.  I was successful on my second attempt.  Don't give up.  You will be even more proud of this accomplishment once you have achieved it!  Take time if you feel like you need it, but DON'T QUIT!!!

I didn't pass my test yesterday.  I'm very frustrated because I studied to the best of my ability.  I put a huge amount of time into studying both the School Nursing Certification Review Book and the School Nursing Comprehensive Text.  I made flashcards, listened to flashcards on quizlet, and memorized everything I could. I also joined this study group through NASN.   My biggest frustration is that the test felt easy to me and I don't even know what I would do different to study for it again.  I was truly shocked that I didn't pass it.  The whole time I was taking it I felt like I was doing well.  Also, they don't tell you what you missed, and I feel like if this was truly a test as they say it is that "is a means for the specialty of school nursing to demonstrate and improve quality of care in the school setting" , then they would give you a better idea on how to improve for the next time.  I truly can't afford to pay for a $400 test and then buy $75 practice exams or $200 courses.

If anyone has any experience with this or any insight, please advise.  I'm at a loss.

Great advice, Jody! It is discouraging when we don't pass, but hopefully we can learn from that experience and it will help determine where we need to concentrate our efforts. When we get knocked down, we get back up! It is helpful to look at how you did in each domain, look at the handbook to see which topics are covered in that domain, and focus your studying there. It is also important not to read too much into the questions. Read and re-read the question; what information is it asking for? 

NBCSN has posted a recording to help candidates who are retaking the exam. You can find it here: https://www.nbcsn.org/exam-preparation-webinars/

Good morning,

I did not pass on my first attempt.  I was determined to be successful.  I did not wait after I failed.  I immediately took the test on the next testing cycle.  I wanted to ensure that the material was still fresh in my mind.  When I was preparing to take the test for the second time, I concentrated on the areas where I was weakest.  Then, I studied everything again as before.  I was successful on my second attempt.  Don't give up.  You will be even more proud of this accomplishment once you have achieved it!  Take time if you feel like you need it, but DON'T QUIT!!!

I didn't pass my test yesterday.  I'm very frustrated because I studied to the best of my ability.  I put a huge amount of time into studying both the School Nursing Certification Review Book and the School Nursing Comprehensive Text.  I made flashcards, listened to flashcards on quizlet, and memorized everything I could. I also joined this study group through NASN.   My biggest frustration is that the test felt easy to me and I don't even know what I would do different to study for it again.  I was truly shocked that I didn't pass it.  The whole time I was taking it I felt like I was doing well.  Also, they don't tell you what you missed, and I feel like if this was truly a test as they say it is that "is a means for the specialty of school nursing to demonstrate and improve quality of care in the school setting" , then they would give you a better idea on how to improve for the next time.  I truly can't afford to pay for a $400 test and then buy $75 practice exams or $200 courses.

If anyone has any experience with this or any insight, please advise.  I'm at a loss.

Good afternoon,

This was my 2nd attempt of taking the test I took it in Summer and then this fall. Failed both times and the graphs telling you your weak areas were all equal.  This time I felt like the questions and vocabulary were very difficult.  A lot questions on allergic reaction, adverse meds, BMI, percentile group, hearing decibels, sports and disaster preparation.

I did the e-Course online listening 2 full times and listened in the car as well. I took the free tests everywhere I could get them.  I also took the test anxiety course. I felt like I did well both times and this time I even looked for the key words in the questions.

I'm not giving up but it is very expensive to retake over and over again on a school nurse salary. I need to keep that money however I want the certification.

I don't have study groups because everyone is too far away from me in my state. But i have done my best both times and Im frustrated and worried about paying again.

Good Luck to everyone.

Great advice, Jody! It is discouraging when we don't pass, but hopefully we can learn from that experience and it will help determine where we need to concentrate our efforts. When we get knocked down, we get back up! It is helpful to look at how you did in each domain, look at the handbook to see which topics are covered in that domain, and focus your studying there. It is also important not to read too much into the questions. Read and re-read the question; what information is it asking for? 

NBCSN has posted a recording to help candidates who are retaking the exam. You can find it here: https://www.nbcsn.org/exam-preparation-webinars/

Good morning,

I did not pass on my first attempt.  I was determined to be successful.  I did not wait after I failed.  I immediately took the test on the next testing cycle.  I wanted to ensure that the material was still fresh in my mind.  When I was preparing to take the test for the second time, I concentrated on the areas where I was weakest.  Then, I studied everything again as before.  I was successful on my second attempt.  Don't give up.  You will be even more proud of this accomplishment once you have achieved it!  Take time if you feel like you need it, but DON'T QUIT!!!

I didn't pass my test yesterday.  I'm very frustrated because I studied to the best of my ability.  I put a huge amount of time into studying both the School Nursing Certification Review Book and the School Nursing Comprehensive Text.  I made flashcards, listened to flashcards on quizlet, and memorized everything I could. I also joined this study group through NASN.   My biggest frustration is that the test felt easy to me and I don't even know what I would do different to study for it again.  I was truly shocked that I didn't pass it.  The whole time I was taking it I felt like I was doing well.  Also, they don't tell you what you missed, and I feel like if this was truly a test as they say it is that "is a means for the specialty of school nursing to demonstrate and improve quality of care in the school setting" , then they would give you a better idea on how to improve for the next time.  I truly can't afford to pay for a $400 test and then buy $75 practice exams or $200 courses.

If anyone has any experience with this or any insight, please advise.  I'm at a loss.

Good morning Denise,

I was just reading your post. I'm so sorry to hear that you didn't pass the 2nd time. I failed the first time and felt so defeated that I said I refuse to take it again. I was so embarrassed that I didn't really tell anyone. That was last Spring. I've decided to start studying my guide again and also purchased the 2 practice exams. It's frustrating because it is all so expensive. I can only imagine failing it a 2nd time would be devastating! After all that I am planning to take it again in Spring 2025. I send lot's of positive thoughts and energy your way whether you decide to take it again or not. I hope you have a nice Thanksgiving!

Good afternoon,

This was my 2nd attempt of taking the test I took it in Summer and then this fall. Failed both times and the graphs telling you your weak areas were all equal.  This time I felt like the questions and vocabulary were very difficult.  A lot questions on allergic reaction, adverse meds, BMI, percentile group, hearing decibels, sports and disaster preparation.

I did the e-Course online listening 2 full times and listened in the car as well. I took the free tests everywhere I could get them.  I also took the test anxiety course. I felt like I did well both times and this time I even looked for the key words in the questions.

I'm not giving up but it is very expensive to retake over and over again on a school nurse salary. I need to keep that money however I want the certification.

I don't have study groups because everyone is too far away from me in my state. But i have done my best both times and Im frustrated and worried about paying again.

Good Luck to everyone.

Great advice, Jody! It is discouraging when we don't pass, but hopefully we can learn from that experience and it will help determine where we need to concentrate our efforts. When we get knocked down, we get back up! It is helpful to look at how you did in each domain, look at the handbook to see which topics are covered in that domain, and focus your studying there. It is also important not to read too much into the questions. Read and re-read the question; what information is it asking for? 

NBCSN has posted a recording to help candidates who are retaking the exam. You can find it here: https://www.nbcsn.org/exam-preparation-webinars/

Good morning,

I did not pass on my first attempt.  I was determined to be successful.  I did not wait after I failed.  I immediately took the test on the next testing cycle.  I wanted to ensure that the material was still fresh in my mind.  When I was preparing to take the test for the second time, I concentrated on the areas where I was weakest.  Then, I studied everything again as before.  I was successful on my second attempt.  Don't give up.  You will be even more proud of this accomplishment once you have achieved it!  Take time if you feel like you need it, but DON'T QUIT!!!

I didn't pass my test yesterday.  I'm very frustrated because I studied to the best of my ability.  I put a huge amount of time into studying both the School Nursing Certification Review Book and the School Nursing Comprehensive Text.  I made flashcards, listened to flashcards on quizlet, and memorized everything I could. I also joined this study group through NASN.   My biggest frustration is that the test felt easy to me and I don't even know what I would do different to study for it again.  I was truly shocked that I didn't pass it.  The whole time I was taking it I felt like I was doing well.  Also, they don't tell you what you missed, and I feel like if this was truly a test as they say it is that "is a means for the specialty of school nursing to demonstrate and improve quality of care in the school setting" , then they would give you a better idea on how to improve for the next time.  I truly can't afford to pay for a $400 test and then buy $75 practice exams or $200 courses.

If anyone has any experience with this or any insight, please advise.  I'm at a loss.

Good afternoon,

This was my 2nd attempt of taking the test I took it in Summer and then this fall. Failed both times and the graphs telling you your weak areas were all equal.  This time I felt like the questions and vocabulary were very difficult.  A lot questions on allergic reaction, adverse meds, BMI, percentile group, hearing decibels, sports and disaster preparation.

I did the e-Course online listening 2 full times and listened in the car as well. I took the free tests everywhere I could get them.  I also took the test anxiety course. I felt like I did well both times and this time I even looked for the key words in the questions.

I'm not giving up but it is very expensive to retake over and over again on a school nurse salary. I need to keep that money however I want the certification.

I don't have study groups because everyone is too far away from me in my state. But i have done my best both times and Im frustrated and worried about paying again.

Good Luck to everyone.

Great advice, Jody! It is discouraging when we don't pass, but hopefully we can learn from that experience and it will help determine where we need to concentrate our efforts. When we get knocked down, we get back up! It is helpful to look at how you did in each domain, look at the handbook to see which topics are covered in that domain, and focus your studying there. It is also important not to read too much into the questions. Read and re-read the question; what information is it asking for? 

NBCSN has posted a recording to help candidates who are retaking the exam. You can find it here: https://www.nbcsn.org/exam-preparation-webinars/

Good morning,

I did not pass on my first attempt.  I was determined to be successful.  I did not wait after I failed.  I immediately took the test on the next testing cycle.  I wanted to ensure that the material was still fresh in my mind.  When I was preparing to take the test for the second time, I concentrated on the areas where I was weakest.  Then, I studied everything again as before.  I was successful on my second attempt.  Don't give up.  You will be even more proud of this accomplishment once you have achieved it!  Take time if you feel like you need it, but DON'T QUIT!!!

I didn't pass my test yesterday.  I'm very frustrated because I studied to the best of my ability.  I put a huge amount of time into studying both the School Nursing Certification Review Book and the School Nursing Comprehensive Text.  I made flashcards, listened to flashcards on quizlet, and memorized everything I could. I also joined this study group through NASN.   My biggest frustration is that the test felt easy to me and I don't even know what I would do different to study for it again.  I was truly shocked that I didn't pass it.  The whole time I was taking it I felt like I was doing well.  Also, they don't tell you what you missed, and I feel like if this was truly a test as they say it is that "is a means for the specialty of school nursing to demonstrate and improve quality of care in the school setting" , then they would give you a better idea on how to improve for the next time.  I truly can't afford to pay for a $400 test and then buy $75 practice exams or $200 courses.

If anyone has any experience with this or any insight, please advise.  I'm at a loss.

Good afternoon,

This was my 2nd attempt of taking the test I took it in Summer and then this fall. Failed both times and the graphs telling you your weak areas were all equal.  This time I felt like the questions and vocabulary were very difficult.  A lot questions on allergic reaction, adverse meds, BMI, percentile group, hearing decibels, sports and disaster preparation.

I did the e-Course online listening 2 full times and listened in the car as well. I took the free tests everywhere I could get them.  I also took the test anxiety course. I felt like I did well both times and this time I even looked for the key words in the questions.

I'm not giving up but it is very expensive to retake over and over again on a school nurse salary. I need to keep that money however I want the certification.

I don't have study groups because everyone is too far away from me in my state. But i have done my best both times and Im frustrated and worried about paying again.

Good Luck to everyone.

Great advice, Jody! It is discouraging when we don't pass, but hopefully we can learn from that experience and it will help determine where we need to concentrate our efforts. When we get knocked down, we get back up! It is helpful to look at how you did in each domain, look at the handbook to see which topics are covered in that domain, and focus your studying there. It is also important not to read too much into the questions. Read and re-read the question; what information is it asking for? 

NBCSN has posted a recording to help candidates who are retaking the exam. You can find it here: https://www.nbcsn.org/exam-preparation-webinars/

Good morning,

I did not pass on my first attempt.  I was determined to be successful.  I did not wait after I failed.  I immediately took the test on the next testing cycle.  I wanted to ensure that the material was still fresh in my mind.  When I was preparing to take the test for the second time, I concentrated on the areas where I was weakest.  Then, I studied everything again as before.  I was successful on my second attempt.  Don't give up.  You will be even more proud of this accomplishment once you have achieved it!  Take time if you feel like you need it, but DON'T QUIT!!!

I didn't pass my test yesterday.  I'm very frustrated because I studied to the best of my ability.  I put a huge amount of time into studying both the School Nursing Certification Review Book and the School Nursing Comprehensive Text.  I made flashcards, listened to flashcards on quizlet, and memorized everything I could. I also joined this study group through NASN.   My biggest frustration is that the test felt easy to me and I don't even know what I would do different to study for it again.  I was truly shocked that I didn't pass it.  The whole time I was taking it I felt like I was doing well.  Also, they don't tell you what you missed, and I feel like if this was truly a test as they say it is that "is a means for the specialty of school nursing to demonstrate and improve quality of care in the school setting" , then they would give you a better idea on how to improve for the next time.  I truly can't afford to pay for a $400 test and then buy $75 practice exams or $200 courses.

If anyone has any experience with this or any insight, please advise.  I'm at a loss.