ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification Exam — Information & Free Practice
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Exam Review
About ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification Exam
ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification Exam · US
Key exam facts
- Provider
- American Council on Exercise (ACE), certification examination sponsor; Meazure Learning is contracted for development, administration, scoring, and security.
- Format
- Proctored multiple-choice examination at a test site or online with live remote proctoring; includes video-based multiple-choice questions.
- Exam questions
- Total questions: 150; Scored questions: 125; Unscored questions: 25; The total includes the scored and unscored questions.
- Time limit
- 3 hours of examination time.
- Passing score
- A scaled score of at least 500 on the 200–800 scale.
- Exam fee
- US computer-based GFI examination: US$249 for a first attempt; US$199 for an eligible retake. Study packages and other eligibility categories have separate prices.
Topics covered
Class Preparation (34%)
- Plan class format, objectives, delivery, participants, and environment
- Select and sequence exercises, music, equipment, and technology
- Plan inclusive exercise options and modifications
- Rehearse class content and refine the plan
Group Instruction and Leadership (39%)
- Assess and adapt the class environment, equipment, and participant needs
- Communicate to build rapport, community, and adherence
- Teach multilevel classes and monitor participant responses
- Motivate, inspire, and engage diverse participants
- Educate participants on health, wellness, and fitness principles
Professional Conduct and Risk Management (27%)
- Evaluate and incorporate feedback for continuous improvement
- Recognize and respond to risks, incidents, and emergencies
- Maintain competence using credible evidence and technology
- Apply professional standards, policies, laws, and risk protections
How to prepare
Work through the topics, read the explanation after each answer, and revisit the areas where you miss questions. Use the official outline and reference materials below to guide your study.
These independent practice questions are not actual exam items and do not guarantee a passing result.
Frequently asked questions
What is the exam format?
Proctored multiple-choice examination at a test site or online with live remote proctoring; includes video-based multiple-choice questions.
How many questions are on the exam?
Total questions: 150; Scored questions: 125; Unscored questions: 25; The total includes the scored and unscored questions.
How long is the exam?
3 hours of examination time.
What is the passing score?
A scaled score of at least 500 on the 200–800 scale.
How much does the exam cost?
US computer-based GFI examination: US$249 for a first attempt; US$199 for an eligible retake. Study packages and other eligibility categories have separate prices.
Official sources and references
- ACE GFI Exam Content Outline effective November 1, 2026
PDF page 2, Exam Content Outline
- ACE GFI Exam Content Outline effective November 1, 2026
PDF page 2, Performance Domains
- ACE GFI Exam Content Outline effective November 1, 2026
PDF page 1, effective-date footer
- Changes to the Group Fitness Instructor Exam Content Outline
When will the exam change to reflect the new exam content outline?
- ACE Certification and Recertification Handbook
PDF page 17 (printed page 14), Exam Content Outlines
- ACE Certification and Recertification Handbook
PDF page 17 (printed page 14), ACE Certification Exams
- ACE Certification and Recertification Handbook
PDF page 24 (printed page 21), Exam Scoring and Passing Criteria
- ACE Certification and Recertification Handbook
PDF page 17 (printed page 14), video-based questions
- ACE Certification and Recertification Handbook
PDF page 21 (printed page 18), Exam Administration
- ACE Frequently Asked Questions
Exam Registrations, How much does it cost to take the exam?, Computer-Based (U.S. and Canada only), GFI column
- ACE Certification and Recertification Handbook
PDF page 21 (printed page 18), Exam Fees
Confirm current exam arrangements with the exam provider.