About the NCE

The National Counselor Examination (NCE) is a 200-item multiple-choice examination designed to assess knowledge, skills and abilities determined to be important for providing effective counseling services. The NCE is a requirement for counselor licensure in many states. It is also one of two examination options for the National Certified Counselor (NCC) certification. It may also be accepted by military health systems to become a recognized provider.

The NCE was first used in 1983 as part of the NCC application process, and continues to undergo regular review and development to ensure it represents the current reality of practice and research in the counseling profession.

NCE Content Outline Preview Summer 2027 Content Outline

Options for Examination Delivery

You can take the examination as part the National Certified Counselor (NCC) application, which will be covered in this handbook. The benefit of taking the examination via this method is that it allows you to get a head start on earning your professional credentials.

You can take the examination on its own, as part of the state licensure process. For more information on this process, review the state licensure candidate handbook.

Prepare for the NCE

Study guides are available to help you prepare for the NCE.

Download an Accommodation Request Form

Forms are available for download if special accomomodations are needed for the NCE.

Special Examination Request Forms:

Certification & Credentialing Candidates Request Form

State Licensure Candidates Request Form