FAQs

Where do I go to take the exam?

You may choose to sit for the exam independently, or with a group, if one is offered in your area. As an independent exam taker, you will need to find a proctor to oversee your exam taking. Please refer to “Section III: Application & Fees” of the study guide to learn more about locating a proctor. Any cost incurred by using a proctor is the exam taker’s responsibility.

Persons interested in sitting for the exam with a group, please go to Exam Information for an updated exam schedule of locations.

While you may choose the date you take the exam, scoring of exams will be completed quarterly.

How often is the exam offered?

As an exam taker, you may choose to take the exam in a group setting or individually with a proctor of your choice. Please consult the Exam Information page of this website for group exam locations and dates. If you choose to sit for the exam with an independent proctor, you may take the exam at any time agreed upon with your proctor.

It is important to note that exams are corrected and scores are released on a quarterly basis.

How much time is allotted to take the exam? Will there be a break?

You will have three (3) hours to complete the exam. There will be no breaks. If you have a medical need for a break, please provide advanced notice in the designated area on your exam application and one will be scheduled for you.

If taking the exam with a group, you must arrive thirty (30) minutes prior to the exam start time to allow for check-in and instruction. Independent exam takers should schedule an arrival time with their proctor.

Know your needs. You are encouraged to bring water and a small snack to sustain you during the exam. Please verify with your proctor that food and beverage are allowed in the exam area.

Will the exam be on paper or computer-based?

Initially, the exam will be offered only on paper. In time, the exam will be administered via both paper and computer.

How is the exam scored?

Exams are scored on a quarterly basis. Paper versions of the exam will be scored by hand. Computerized versions will be scored via computer. The dates when exam results become available will be posted on the Exam Information page of this website.

What is a passing grade?

An overall exam grade of 70% correct is required to pass the exam.

How long will it take to get exam results?

Exam results will be available quarterly on pre-determined dates. Refer to the Exam Information page of this website for dates and locations, as well as dates when exam results will be available. You will receive your results by U.S. Mail.

Will I be given grades by exam domain so I know which areas I did well or poorly in?

Your exam results will include one overall exam grade and a “pass” or “fail” for each of the five exam domains. If you perform poorly on any of the exam domains, suggestions for additional education will be given.

Can I retake the exam if I fail?

If you fail to pass the exam, you may retest within six (6) months. If you fail two (2) times, you will be required to document additional education prior to taking the exam a third time. If you fail three (3) times, you will not be allowed to sit for the exam again. A re-test fee of $250 will apply.

If I fail the exam, do I need to retake the entire exam or just the domains I failed?

You will need to retake the entire exam.

What title do I use after passing the exam?

Please continue to use the title given you by your school of study. In addition, you may use “Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition”.

Always check your state laws to assure you are practicing legally. Please go to “Becoming Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition” on this website.

Do I need to renew my certification? What are the requirements for maintaining board certification?

You will not need to sit for the exam again. However, you will be required to document the following every two (2) years to renew and maintain your board certification:

¶ Completion of thirty (30) continuing education units per two (2) year term.

¶ Professional member in good standing with the NANP.