Nursing certification exam guides

PMHNP-BC · ANCC

PMHNP is the fastest-growing credential in nursing, fueled by a nationwide mental-health workforce shortage. The boards are passable with the right plan — here's the exam, a realistic study timeline, and the prep that actually moves the needle.

FNP · AANP or ANCC

FNP is the largest NP credential in the country, and you get to choose your exam — AANP or ANCC. This guide breaks down the difference, the exam format, and a study plan built around the question banks that actually move your score.

AGPCNP-BC · AANP or ANCC

AGPCNP is the adult-focused cousin of the FNP — primary care for adults and older adults, minus peds and OB. Two exam routes, a familiar prep path, and a fast-aging population driving demand. Here's how to pass.

AGACNP · AACN or ANCC

AGACNP is a high-acuity NP credential with two exam routes and surprisingly little clear guidance online — which makes the 'which exam, how do I study' questions easy to win once someone lays them out. Here's the breakdown.

CCRN · AACN

CCRN is the gold-standard credential for ICU nurses — and with a first-time pass rate around 72%, a sizable group needs a real plan, not just a textbook. Here's the exam, the high-yield domains, and the prep that actually works.

PCCN · AACN

PCCN is the AACN credential for progressive-care and step-down nurses — same Synergy Model and study ecosystem as CCRN, scoped to the patients you actually care for. It's a clean, achievable certification with a familiar prep path.

CEN · BCEN

The CEN has one of the lower pass rates on the board — overall results often land near 50% once retakes are counted — which means walking in 'experienced but unprepared' is a common, expensive mistake. Here's how to actually pass the first time.