Best NCE Prep Courses: Top Study Resources to Ace Your Exam

The National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) is a critical step for individuals pursuing a career in professional counseling in the United States. Administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), the exam evaluates a candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for competent practice. With 200 multiple-choice questions spanning eight CACREP domains, the NCE requires thorough preparation to ensure success. Test-takers have 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the exam, making time management crucial. Given its broad scope and challenging nature, many candidates invest in structured NCE prep courses to enhance their chances of achieving a passing score. This guide compares the best NCE prep courses available, helping you choose the one that aligns with your learning style, budget, and study needs. Whether you prefer video lectures, digital flashcards, practice tests, or physical study guides, this list will help you find the ideal program.

Key Takeaways

• Dooey NCE Prep Course – Best overall, with comprehensive content and structured learning
• Mometrix University – Most comprehensive, offering in-depth lessons, videos, and a free trial
• Dr. Arthur’s NCE Study Guide – Best for text-based learners, featuring structured study materials and personalized guidance
• National Counseling Exams Subscription Service – Best for those who prefer physical study guides and CDs
• Test.com NCE Practice Exams – Best budget-friendly option, providing affordable practice tests and a test simulator

By selecting the right NCE prep course, you can enhance your knowledge, build confidence, and improve your test-taking skills—ensuring you are well-prepared to pass the exam on your first try!

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1. Best Overall: Dooey NCE Prep Course

The Dooey NCE Prep Course is a highly rated online study program designed to help aspiring counselors prepare for the National Counselor Examination (NCE). As one of the most structured and content-rich courses available, Dooey provides comprehensive coverage of all eight CACREP domains, ensuring students develop a deep understanding of the exam material.

Dooey’s course stands out due to its interactive learning approach, which includes video lessons, practice questions, and flashcards. These study tools are designed to reinforce key concepts, improve retention, and build test-taking confidence. The self-paced format makes it ideal for learners who prefer flexibility while maintaining an organized study plan.

Course Overview

The Dooey NCE Prep Course is structured to provide a thorough yet efficient preparation experience. It includes:

• Comprehensive content coverage: All eight CACREP domains are covered, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of counseling theories, skills, and applications.
• 1,200+ practice questions: Each question comes with detailed explanations to help reinforce learning and improve problem-solving strategies.
• 35+ instructional videos: High-quality video lectures provide step-by-step guidance on essential exam topics, making complex concepts easier to grasp.
• 530+ digital flashcards: Flashcards are designed to reinforce important terms and concepts, offering an efficient way to review material.
• Self-paced learning structure: Students can progress through the material at their own speed without strict deadlines.
• Mobile-friendly interface: The course platform is optimized for mobile use, allowing students to study anytime, anywhere.

With its structured modules, diverse study tools, and detailed explanations, this course provides a solid foundation for success in the NCE.

Pros

1. Covers All Eight CACREP Domains in Depth

Dooey ensures that students receive a thorough understanding of every domain tested on the NCE, including counseling theories, assessment, research, ethics, and professional practice. The course materials align with the official NCE content outline, making it one of the most well-structured prep options available.

2. Extensive Practice Questions with Explanations

With over 1,200 practice questions, students get ample opportunity to test their knowledge and improve their test-taking skills. Each question comes with detailed answer explanations, helping students understand the reasoning behind correct and incorrect choices. This feature enhances learning and prevents repetitive mistakes.

3. High-Quality Video Lessons for Visual Learners

The course includes 35+ instructional videos that break down complex counseling concepts into easy-to-understand lessons. These videos provide step-by-step explanations, making the material more engaging and accessible for students who prefer a visual learning approach.

4. User-Friendly Interface and Structured Learning

Dooey’s platform is designed for easy navigation, allowing students to move seamlessly between study modules, practice questions, and flashcards. The structured learning format ensures that students follow a logical progression, covering foundational concepts before moving on to more advanced topics.

5. Mobile-Friendly for On-the-Go Studying

Unlike some prep courses that require a desktop or laptop, Dooey’s platform is optimized for mobile and tablet use. This flexibility allows students to study anywhere, making it an excellent choice for those with busy schedules or limited study time.

Cons

1. No Physical Study Materials

One of the major drawbacks of this course is the lack of printed textbooks, workbooks, or study guides. While the digital format is convenient for many, some students prefer hard-copy materials for offline studying or annotating notes.

2. Lacks One-on-One Tutoring or Live Support

Dooey does not provide personalized tutoring or live instructor support. Students who struggle with specific topics may find it challenging to get immediate assistance, as the course relies entirely on self-study materials.

3. No Live Classes or Webinars

Unlike some competitors that offer live online classes or instructor-led sessions, Dooey only includes pre-recorded video lessons. While these videos are well-structured, some students may prefer the engagement of real-time instruction.

4. Limited Community or Peer Support

Dooey does not have discussion forums or interactive study groups, which could be a disadvantage for students who benefit from peer interaction and collaborative learning. Some learners find that engaging with others improves motivation and knowledge retention.

5. Higher Cost Compared to Basic Study Guides

While Dooey offers a comprehensive prep package, it is more expensive than standalone study guides or practice test-only options. Students on a tight budget may find it challenging to justify the cost, especially if they are looking for simpler, more affordable alternatives.

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2. Most Comprehensive: Mometrix University NCE Prep Course

The Mometrix University NCE Prep Course is a highly detailed and structured study program designed to help candidates master the National Counselor Examination (NCE). Known for its comprehensive content coverage, this course provides in-depth lessons, practice questions, video tutorials, and flashcards to reinforce key concepts.

One of the standout features of this course is its one-week free trial, allowing students to explore the study materials before committing. This feature makes Mometrix an excellent choice for those who want to test the platform’s effectiveness before making a financial investment.

Course Overview

The Mometrix University NCE Prep Course is structured to ensure thorough exam preparation through a combination of study resources:

• 950+ practice questions: Designed to reflect real exam difficulty, with detailed answer explanations.
• 84 text-based lessons: Cover all essential exam domains and subtopics, providing a well-structured learning path.
• 30+ instructional videos: Expert-led video tutorials break down complex topics into easy-to-understand lessons.
• 488 digital flashcards: Aid in quick revision and memory retention of key terms and concepts.
• Mobile-friendly platform: Allows for convenient studying on any device, anywhere.
• One-week free trial: Gives students an opportunity to explore the course content before purchasing.
• Money-back satisfaction guarantee: Provides peace of mind for students unsure about their investment.

With its detailed content coverage and structured approach, Mometrix University offers a comprehensive learning experience, making it an ideal choice for those looking for an all-inclusive study package.

Pros

1. Comprehensive Study Material Covering All Exam Domains

Mometrix University ensures thorough coverage of the NCE exam by structuring its lessons around the official test blueprint. The 84 text-based lessons provide a deep dive into all CACREP domains, including professional counseling, assessment, research, and ethics. This level of detail ensures that students are well-prepared for all aspects of the exam.

2. Large Bank of Practice Questions with Explanations

With over 950 practice questions, Mometrix provides ample opportunities to test knowledge and improve problem-solving skills. Each question comes with detailed explanations, helping students understand why an answer is correct or incorrect. This feature is especially beneficial for identifying weaknesses and reinforcing understanding.

3. High-Quality Video Lessons for Visual Learners

The course includes 30+ expert-led instructional videos that provide step-by-step explanations of key topics. These engaging, easy-to-follow videos break down complex concepts, making them more accessible for students who struggle with text-heavy learning materials.

4. Flashcards for Quick and Efficient Revision

Mometrix offers 488 digital flashcards, making it easy for students to review key terms, theories, and counseling concepts. This tool is particularly helpful for last-minute revisions and reinforcing memorization of important information.

5. Money-Back Guarantee and One-Week Free Trial

One of the best features of this course is the one-week free trial, which allows students to evaluate the course materials before committing. Additionally, Mometrix provides a money-back satisfaction guarantee, ensuring that students feel confident in their investments.

Cons

1. Monthly Subscription Can Be Expensive

Unlike courses with a one-time payment, Mometrix operates on a monthly subscription model, which can become costly if a student requires extended study time. Those on a tight budget may find the recurring costs less appealing compared to fixed-price courses.

2. No Physical Books or CDs Available

While the course provides comprehensive digital resources, it does not offer physical study materials such as printed textbooks or CDs. Some students prefer hard-copy resources for offline study, note-taking, or highlighting key concepts.

3. No Personalized Tutoring or Instructor Support

Mometrix does not include one-on-one tutoring or live instructor support. Students who need personalized guidance may find it challenging to get direct answers to specific questions. The lack of direct interaction means that learners must rely solely on self-study materials.

4. Limited Interactive or Community Features

Unlike some competitors that offer discussion forums or peer study groups, Mometrix does not provide a platform for student interaction. Some learners benefit from engaging with peers to discuss concepts and share study strategies, but this course lacks that option.

5. No Live Classes or Webinars for Real-Time Engagement

Mometrix’s course is pre-recorded and self-paced, meaning it does not include live classes, instructor-led webinars, or real-time Q&A sessions. Students who prefer interactive learning experiences may find the lack of live instruction a drawback.

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3. Best Study Guide: Dr. Arthur’s NCE Study Guide

Dr. Arthur’s NCE Study Guide is an excellent choice for students who prefer a structured, text-based approach to exam preparation. Unlike courses that rely heavily on video lessons and interactive tools, this study guide focuses on clear, concise written explanations of key NCE topics, making it an ideal resource for self-motivated learners.

This guide is particularly beneficial for those who retain information better through reading and reviewing rather than watching lectures. It presents concepts in an organized, easy-to-follow manner, ensuring students grasp fundamental theories and principles efficiently. The added benefit of a personalized phone consultation provides tailored guidance, making this study guide a unique and valuable resource.

Course Overview

Dr. Arthur’s study guide is designed for structured independent learning, offering:

• Comprehensive written study material: Covers key NCE concepts in a well-organized and easy-to-digest format.
• 450+ flashcards: Helps reinforce essential terms and concepts for efficient memorization.
• Personalized phone consultation: Provides direct access to expert guidance, allowing students to ask questions and receive customized study advice.
• Self-paced learning: Perfect for students who prefer reading over interactive or video-based content.
• Affordable pricing: A budget-friendly option compared to full prep courses with multimedia content.

While this guide lacks video tutorials and interactive elements, its clear explanations and structured format make it an effective choice for students looking for a concise yet thorough review of NCE topics.

Pros

1. Affordable and Cost-Effective Study Option

Compared to full NCE prep courses that include video lessons and interactive tools, Dr. Arthur’s study guide is more budget-friendly. It provides high-quality, text-based content at a lower cost, making it an attractive choice for students looking for an affordable yet comprehensive review resource.

2. Well-organized and Easy-to-Follow Study Materials

One of the standout features of this guide is its structured and logical layout. Topics are presented in a clear, easy-to-understand format, allowing students to systematically work through essential counseling theories, skills, and ethical principles without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Personalized Consultation for Tailored Study Support

Unlike most study guides that offer only self-study materials, Dr. Arthur’s NCE Study Guide includes a one-on-one phone consultation. This feature is invaluable for students who need personalized study advice, clarification on difficult topics, or guidance on effective test-taking strategies.

4. Effective for Self-Paced Learners Who Prefer Reading

Not all students learn best through video-based instruction. This study guide is ideal for those who retain information better by reading and reviewing written explanations. The inclusion of 450+ flashcards further enhances memorization and concept retention.

5. Ideal for Quick Review and Last-Minute Studying

For students who need a concise yet effective study resource, this guide serves as an excellent last-minute review tool. Its straightforward format allows students to quickly go over key concepts, making it a time-efficient study solution before the exam.

Cons

1. No Video Lessons or Interactive Content

Unlike comprehensive prep courses that include video tutorials and interactive exercises, this study guide relies entirely on text-based content. Students who prefer visual or interactive learning may find it lacking in engagement and variety.

2. Limited Additional Resources Beyond the Study Guide

While the guide covers essential topics effectively, it does not offer full-length practice tests, detailed performance tracking, or progress analytics. Students looking for more extensive practice materials may need to supplement their preparation with additional resources.

3. No Community Support or Peer Interaction

Unlike some prep courses that offer study groups, discussion forums, or online peer support, this guide is entirely self-directed. Students who benefit from collaborative learning or peer discussions won’t find those features here.

4. Lacks Structured Test-Taking Strategies and Practice Exams

While the guide provides strong theoretical coverage, it does not include full-length simulated exams or test-taking strategies that help students build endurance and manage time effectively. Those seeking realistic exam simulations may need to practice with additional resources.

5. May Not Be Suitable for Students Who Struggle with Self-Discipline

Since this study guide is self-paced and lacks instructor-led lessons, students who struggle with motivation or require external guidance may find it difficult to stay on track. Those who learn best in a structured, interactive environment may prefer a full prep course with scheduled lessons and instructor support.

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4. Best for Physical Study Materials: National Counseling Exams Subscription Service and Study Guides

The National Counseling Exams Subscription Service and Study Guides are designed for students who prefer traditional study methods, offering physical books, instructional CDs, and digital guides. This service provides a subscription-based model that grants access to comprehensive study materials tailored for the National Counselor Examination (NCE).

For individuals who learn best with tangible resources, this service stands out by offering shippable paperback guides and CDs alongside digital content. Unlike fully online courses, this approach allows students to study offline, highlight key information, and refer back to printed materials at their convenience.

Course Overview

This service provides a range of study materials in multiple formats, allowing students to customize their learning experience. The main offerings include:

• Digital and paperback study guides – Students can choose between online access or printed materials for in-depth exam preparation.
• Subscription-based access – Plans are available for different budgets, with varying levels of content access.
• Instructional CDs shipped for free – Ideal for students who prefer audio-based learning or reviewing concepts on the go.
• NCE Exam Tidbits guides – Concise, easy-to-reference study aids designed to reinforce key concepts quickly.
• Comprehensive content coverage – Covers all essential NCE topics, ensuring students are well-prepared for exam day.

This flexible study approach caters to those who value traditional resources over digital-only prep courses, offering a more hands-on and immersive learning experience.

Pros

1. Multiple Study Formats for Different Learning Preferences

Unlike online-only prep courses, this service offers digital guides, paperback books, and instructional CDs, catering to students with different learning preferences. Those who retain information better through physical study materials will benefit from the ability to highlight, annotate, and review printed resources at their own pace.

2. In-depth Coverage of Key NCE Topics

The study materials thoroughly cover core NCE content areas, including human growth and development, counseling theories, ethics, and assessment techniques. The structured guides ensure that students can build foundational knowledge before progressing to more complex topics, improving retention and application of concepts.

3. Ideal for Offline Studying

Unlike digital-only courses that require constant internet access, this service allows students to study offline with physical books and CDs. This is particularly useful for learners who prefer a distraction-free environment or need to review material without relying on screens.

4. NCE Exam Tidbits Guides for Quick Reviews

The service provides concise, easy-to-reference guides, helping students reinforce key exam concepts efficiently. These short, digestible summaries are ideal for last-minute revisions or quickly reviewing difficult topics.

5. Subscription Plans for Flexible Budgeting

With multiple subscription options, students can select a plan that fits their budget and study needs. While higher-tier plans are more expensive, they provide access to more comprehensive resources, allowing students to tailor their prep experience.

Cons

1. Expensive Subscription Plans

While the service offers varied pricing tiers, the cost can reach up to $600 annually, making it one of the more costly study options. Students on a tight budget may find it difficult to justify the expense, especially when more affordable online-only alternatives are available.

2. Limited Refund Policy

The refund window for this service is very short, giving students limited time to decide if the materials meet their needs. Unlike some competitors that offer money-back guarantees, this service provides fewer options for dissatisfied customers, which could be a concern for those hesitant about committing to a subscription.

3. No Interactive or Instructor-Led Learning

While the study materials are comprehensive, the lack of interactive elements, live instruction, or tutoring support can be a disadvantage for students who learn best with real-time guidance or peer discussions. This format is best suited for independent learners rather than those who thrive in structured classroom environments.

4. Physical Materials Require Shipping Time

Unlike instant-access digital courses, students must wait for their books and CDs to arrive before starting their studies. This delay can be inconvenient for students who need immediate access to study resources. Shipping times may also vary depending on location and availability.

5. Not Ideal for Students Who Prefer Digital-Only Learning

While the service does offer digital guides, it is primarily designed for students who prefer physical study resources. Those who favor fully online, interactive courses with video lectures, adaptive quizzes, and real-time progress tracking may find this service less engaging and outdated compared to modern e-learning platforms.

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5. Best Budget Option: Test.com NCE Practice Exams Plus

The Test.com NCE Practice Exams Plus is an affordable study resource designed for students who want to evaluate their exam readiness without breaking the bank. This budget-friendly option provides a large pool of practice questions, a test simulation feature, and flashcards, making it a practical choice for those who need targeted practice rather than a full-fledged prep course.

While it lacks instructional videos, structured lessons, and interactive study resources, it excels in helping students gauge their performance under real exam conditions. The test simulator closely mimics the actual NCE, allowing test-takers to become familiar with the exam format, timing, and question types before sitting for the real test.

Course Overview

The Test.com NCE Practice Exams Plus focuses on providing ample practice opportunities and includes the following features:

• 800+ practice questions: Covers a broad range of topics to test knowledge across all NCE domains.
• Test simulator: Designed to replicate the real NCE experience, allowing students to practice under timed conditions.
• Flashcards included: Helps reinforce key concepts and definitions in a structured manner.
• Budget-friendly pricing: Costs under $100, making it one of the most affordable NCE prep options.
• Money-back guarantee: Offers risk-free enrollment, allowing students to get a refund if they are unsatisfied with the course.

For students who are confident in their foundational knowledge and primarily need exam-style practice, this course provides great value at a low cost.

Pros

1. Affordable Pricing Without Compromising Quality

One of the biggest advantages of this course is its low cost, making it accessible to students on a tight budget. Despite being a budget-friendly option, it still offers 800+ high-quality practice questions and a test simulation feature, ensuring a solid preparation experience without requiring a major financial investment.

2. Realistic Test Simulation for Exam Readiness

The test simulator mimics the actual NCE, providing a real exam-like experience with timed conditions. This feature helps students build confidence, improve time management skills, and reduce exam-day anxiety by familiarizing them with the structure and difficulty level of the test.

3. Includes Flashcards for Quick Concept Review

The addition of flashcards makes it easier for students to memorize key terms, theories, and concepts essential for the exam. This structured review tool is particularly useful for reinforcing critical information quickly and efficiently, helping students retain knowledge without spending hours rereading textbooks.

4. Risk-Free Money-Back Guarantee

Test.com offers a money-back guarantee, ensuring that students who are unsatisfied with the course can request a refund. This provides peace of mind for test-takers who are unsure about whether this prep option will meet their needs.

5. Easy-to-Use Platform with Self-Paced Learning

The user-friendly interface allows students to navigate through practice exams and flashcards seamlessly. Since the course is self-paced, test-takers can study at their convenience without worrying about strict deadlines or schedules, making it ideal for those who need a flexible prep solution.

Cons

1. No Video Lessons or Instructional Content

Unlike comprehensive prep courses that provide detailed video tutorials and in-depth explanations of key concepts, this course relies entirely on practice questions and flashcards. Students who prefer guided learning or multimedia instruction may find this approach too limited.

2. Lacks Comprehensive Study Resources

This course is not a full-study program—it is primarily a practice-based resource. There are no structured lessons, study guides, or interactive modules, which may make it challenging for students who need step-by-step instruction to understand complex topics.

3. Limited Coverage of Exam Content

While the 800+ questions provide decent exposure to exam topics, the course does not thoroughly explain all eight CACREP domains. Students who need detailed explanations of theories, ethical guidelines, or counseling techniques may need to supplement their study with additional textbooks or online materials.

4. No Live Support or Tutoring

Unlike some competitors that offer one-on-one coaching, Q&A sessions, or instructor support, this course is completely self-directed. Students who struggle with specific areas of the exam will not have access to expert guidance or personalized feedback, making it less suitable for those who need extra support.

5. No Community or Peer Interaction

This prep course does not include discussion forums, study groups, or collaborative learning opportunities. For students who benefit from peer engagement and group study, the lack of interactive features might make the preparation process feel isolating.

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Comparison of the Best NCE Prep Courses

To help you choose the best NCE prep course, the table below provides a detailed comparison of key features, including the number of practice questions, additional study resources, refund policies, and pricing.

Course Name	Practice Questions	Additional Resources	Satisfaction Guarantee	Price
Mometrix University NCE Prep	950+	84 text-based lessons, 30+ instructional videos, 488 flashcards	Yes	$79.99/month
Dr. Arthur’s NCE Study Guide	200 to 1,000	450+ flashcards, personalized phone consultation	Limited	$199–$356
National Counseling Exams Subscription Service	100+	Digital and paperback study guides, instructional CDs, eBooks	Limited	$14.95–$599.95
Test.com NCE Practice Exams Plus	800	Test simulator, flashcards	Yes	$39.95–$79.90

Breakdown of Key Features:

• Practice Questions:
  The number of practice questions varies across courses, with Mometrix University offering the largest pool (950+), followed by Test.com (800) and Dr. Arthur’s Study Guide (up to 1,000, depending on the package chosen).
• Additional Study Resources:
  • Mometrix University provides a well-rounded package with structured lessons, 30+ instructional videos, and 488 flashcards for reinforcement.
  • Dr. Arthur’s Study Guide is ideal for those who prefer text-based materials, offering a structured guide, 450+ flashcards, and personalized consultation for tailored study support.
  • National Counseling Exams Subscription Service is the only option that includes physical study materials such as printed guides and instructional CDs, catering to those who prefer tangible resources.
  • Test.com NCE Practice Exams Plus offers a test simulation feature that mimics real exam conditions and provides immediate feedback on performance.
• Satisfaction Guarantee:
  • Mometrix University and Test.com provide a money-back guarantee, ensuring confidence in their offerings.
  • Dr. Arthur’s Study Guide and National Counseling Exams Subscription Service have limited refund policies, with some restrictions on returns or cancellations.
• Pricing:
  • Mometrix University operates on a monthly subscription model ($79.99/month), which can add up over time.
  • Dr. Arthur’s Study Guide ranges from $199 to $356, depending on the package.
  • National Counseling Exams Subscription Service has a wide price range ($14.95–$599.95), with various study materials available.
  • Test.com NCE Practice Exams Plus is the most budget-friendly option ($39.95–$79.90) for those primarily seeking practice tests and a simulated exam experience.

Choosing the Right NCE Prep Course:

• If you want the most comprehensive and structured learning experience, Mometrix University is the best choice.
• If you prefer a self-paced study guide with a personalized touch, Dr. Arthur’s Study Guide is ideal.
• If you need physical study materials like books and CDs, the National Counseling Exams Subscription Service is the best option.
• If you’re on a budget but want quality practice exams, Test.com NCE Practice Exams Plus offers great value.

Selecting the right prep course depends on your learning style, budget, and study preferences. A well-chosen study program can significantly improve your chances of passing the NCE on your first attempt.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long should I study for the NCE?

The recommended study period for the NCE varies based on individual familiarity with the exam content. On average, most candidates dedicate two to four months to structured preparation. Those with a strong academic background in counseling may require less time, while individuals needing more review may benefit from a longer study plan. Utilizing a well-organized prep course can help streamline studying and ensure comprehensive topic coverage.

2. What is the best way to prepare for the NCE?

The best preparation strategy involves a combination of practice exams, structured study materials, and active recall techniques like flashcards. Here’s an effective approach:

• Start with a diagnostic test to assess strengths and weaknesses.
• Follow a structured study plan that covers all eight CACREP domains.
• Incorporate a mix of learning tools, such as video lessons, digital flashcards, and physical study guides.
• Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to simulate exam day.
• Review incorrect answers thoroughly to identify gaps in knowledge.

3. What is the passing score for the NCE?

The passing score for the NCE varies per exam cycle because it is determined using a modified Angoff method, which adjusts for difficulty. Generally, the passing score ranges between 95 and 105 correct answers out of 160 scored questions (40 questions are unscored experimental items). However, candidates should focus on maximizing their understanding of all test domains rather than aiming for a specific score.

4. How many times can I take the NCE if I fail?

If a candidate fails the NCE, they are allowed to retake the exam up to three times per year. Each retake requires a new registration and payment of the $275 exam fee. Some state licensing boards may impose additional restrictions, so candidates should verify their jurisdiction’s requirements before scheduling a retake.

5. Are there free NCE prep resources available?

Yes, some organizations provide free study materials, but they are often limited in scope. Candidates can access:

• The NBCC website offers an exam handbook and sample questions.
• Free practice tests from some prep course providers.
• Open educational resources, such as counseling textbooks and psychology websites.
  For comprehensive preparation, investing in a structured prep course is often more effective.

6. Should I choose a self-paced or instructor-led NCE prep course?

The choice depends on personal study preferences:

• Self-paced courses (e.g., Dooey, Mometrix, Test.com) are ideal for independent learners who prefer flexibility and structured materials.
• Instructor-led courses (such as those offering live coaching) may be better for students who need structured guidance and interaction with experts.
  If unsure, candidates can try a free trial (like Mometrix University’s one-week trial) before committing to a course.

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Final Thoughts

The NCE is a challenging but achievable milestone for aspiring counselors. A well-structured study plan, combined with a high-quality prep course, significantly improves the chances of passing on the first attempt.

When choosing an NCE prep course, consider your learning style, budget, and study needs. If you prefer interactive lessons and structured learning, courses like Dooey or Mometrix University offer excellent resources. If you favor self-study, Dr. Arthur’s Study Guide or Test.com’s practice exams might be the best fit. Those who need physical study materials can explore the National Counseling Exams Subscription Service.

By selecting the right prep course and committing to a consistent study routine, you can confidently approach the NCE and take a significant step toward becoming a licensed counselor. Good luck with your preparation!