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Connecticut Social Work — Requirements & Free Practice

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Licenses, application pathways and examination requirements

Each license and applicant pathway has its own requirements and exemptions. Choosing practice questions does not determine your eligibility.

Licensed clinical social worker

Independent clinical social work license under Chapter 383b.

Licensing authority: Connecticut Department of Public Health · Application information

Deemed clinical licensure for independent social workers certified from October 1, 1990 through September 30, 1995
ASWB Clinical Exam
Examination Proviso
The statutory deemed-licensure provision requires satisfaction of C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(3); a currently offered registered Clinical examination remains a leaf even if passed before seeking recognition.
Open Examination Alternative
The commissioner may prescribe another examination under subsection (c)(3); the obtained DPH implementation identifies ASWB Clinical.
Prior Certification
Independent social worker certification on or after October 1, 1990 and before October 1, 1995.
Deemed clinical licensure for independent social workers certified before October 1, 1990
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Legal Effect
C.G.S. 20-195n(c) deems the holder licensed as a clinical social worker on and after October 1, 1995; its examination proviso applies to certifications on or after October 1, 1990. This records continuing recognition, not an open application grandfather period.
Prior Certification
Certified as an independent social worker before October 1, 1990.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement of a suspended or revoked license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Corrective Measures
DPH may impose the disciplinary or corrective measures authorized by C.G.S. 19a-17, including practice restrictions and professional education; no currently identified licensing examination is prescribed in this defining reinstatement provision.
Hearing
DPH must be satisfied after a hearing that the practitioner can practice with reasonable skill and safety.
Prior Action
Previously suspended or revoked Connecticut license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by endorsement
ASWB Clinical Exam
Application Fee
No initial application fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d).
Commissioner Decision
Evidence must be satisfactory to the commissioner; endorsement may be granted.
Discipline
No pending professional disciplinary action or unresolved complaint.
Existing License
Clinical social worker license or certification in good standing in another state or jurisdiction; requirements substantially similar to or greater than Connecticut's.
Open Examination Alternative
The statute also permits another examination prescribed by the commissioner, or the ASWB successor organization; no further named current examination is identified.
Score
Successful completion of the corresponding ASWB level examination, including a passing result obtained before applying.
Licensure by examination
ASWB Clinical Exam
Application Fee
No initial application fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d), as revised in the 2026 Supplement.
Connecticut Experience
For hours completed in Connecticut on or after October 1, 2011, practice must be as a licensed master social worker.
Documents
Source-submitted transcript, license verifications, employment and supervision verification, ASWB clinical result, and an online application with photograph.
Dph Education Statement
DPH LCSW Licensing Requirements additionally states: Hold a master's or doctorate degree from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or from a school in Connecticut that is in candidate status with CSWE during or after the spring semester of 2024, and prior to the spring semester of 2028. Applicants educated outside the United States or its territories, must have completed an educational program deemed equivalent by the CSWE; C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(1) is the controlling clinical education requirement.
Education
Hold a doctorate or master's degree from a CSWE-accredited social work program; foreign education must be deemed equivalent by CSWE.
Experience
3,000 post-master's social work hours, including at least 100 hours of professional supervision by a licensed clinical or certified independent social worker.
Open Examination Alternative
C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(3) also permits any other examination prescribed by the commissioner; no additional named examination is identified by the obtained implementing requirements.
Licensure by examination with foreign education equivalency
ASWB Clinical Exam
Application Fee
No initial application fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d), as revised in the 2026 Supplement.
Connecticut Experience
For hours completed in Connecticut on or after October 1, 2011, practice must be as a licensed master social worker.
Documents
Source-submitted transcript, license verifications, employment and supervision verification, ASWB clinical result, and an online application with photograph.
Dph Education Statement
DPH LCSW Licensing Requirements additionally states: Hold a master's or doctorate degree from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or from a school in Connecticut that is in candidate status with CSWE during or after the spring semester of 2024, and prior to the spring semester of 2028. Applicants educated outside the United States or its territories, must have completed an educational program deemed equivalent by the CSWE; C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(1) is the controlling clinical education requirement.
Dph Historical Fee Statement
The foreign-trained page still states a $315 application fee; the current controlling C.G.S. 20-195o(d) removes the initial application fee.
Education
Foreign-trained applicant must obtain a CSWE International Social Work Degree Recognition and Evaluation Service equivalency determination.
Experience
3,000 post-master's social work hours, including at least 100 hours of professional supervision by a licensed clinical or certified independent social worker.
Open Examination Alternative
C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(3) also permits any other examination prescribed by the commissioner; no additional named examination is identified by the obtained implementing requirements.
Licensure based on at least four years of licensed practice in another United States jurisdiction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Online profession application answering the four-year practice question affirmatively; direct verification of all state licenses.
Background Check
Satisfy any background or character-and-fitness check required of other applicants.
Department Discretion
C.G.S. 19a-14d(b) permits DPH to require all or part of the usual examination; its implementing four-year page presently exercises that permission by stating that applicants will not be required to complete an examination. The commissioner may deny a license in the state's best interest.
Experience
At least four years of practice under the held credential.
Fee
Pay any fees required of other applicants; initial social work applications have no fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d).
Good Standing
All current and expired licenses must be in good standing; no revocation, discipline, pending unprofessional-conduct matter, or voluntary surrender during such investigation.
License
Valid license, permit, certification or registration in the profession in at least one other United States jurisdiction.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination with three years of equivalent licensed clinical experience
ASWB Clinical Exam
Application Fee
No initial application fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d), as revised in the 2026 Supplement.
Connecticut Experience
For hours completed in Connecticut on or after October 1, 2011, practice must be as a licensed master social worker.
Documents
Source-submitted transcript, license verifications, employment and supervision verification, ASWB clinical result, and an online application with photograph.
Dph Education Statement
DPH LCSW Licensing Requirements additionally states: Hold a master's or doctorate degree from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) or from a school in Connecticut that is in candidate status with CSWE during or after the spring semester of 2024, and prior to the spring semester of 2028. Applicants educated outside the United States or its territories, must have completed an educational program deemed equivalent by the CSWE; C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(1) is the controlling clinical education requirement.
Education
Hold a doctorate or master's degree from a CSWE-accredited social work program; foreign education must be deemed equivalent by CSWE.
Experience
Three years of licensed or certified clinical social work in another United States state, territory or commonwealth may replace C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(2) when the commissioner finds it equal to or greater than Connecticut's experience requirement.
Experience Verification
Direct letter from the employment authority stating clinical social worker employment and dates, as required by DPH.
Open Examination Alternative
C.G.S. 20-195n(c)(3) also permits any other examination prescribed by the commissioner; no additional named examination is identified by the obtained implementing requirements.
Renewal of a license that became void during qualifying military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
Apply no later than one year after discharge from qualifying service.
Documentation
DPH form and any other documentation it requires.
Education
Complete the continuing education or refresher training required for renewal of a license that has not become void.
Exclusions
Regular annual reservist or National Guard training outside mobilization does not qualify; no pending professional discipline or unresolved complaint.
Military Service
License became void while on active duty in the United States armed forces or while a National Guard member was ordered out by the Governor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after more than five years away from active clinical practice
ASWB Clinical Exam
Department Assessment
DPH typically requires a period of refresher training or successful completion of the ASWB examination and supplies individual directions after receiving all documentation. Refresher training and DPH discretion are applicant conditions; the identified Clinical examination remains a leaf.
Documents
Online reinstatement application, current CV or synopsis, direct verification of out-of-state licenses and most recent professional employment or a practitioner referral letter addressing safe practice.
Education
Seven hours of continuing education within the year immediately preceding the reinstatement application.
Fee
200 dollars.
Practice Recency
More than five years without active clinical practice.
Prior License
Connecticut LCSW license lapsed due to nonrenewal.
Reinstatement after nonrenewal with recent clinical practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Documents
Online reinstatement application, current CV or synopsis, direct verification of out-of-state licenses and most recent professional employment or a practitioner referral letter addressing safe practice.
Education
Seven hours of continuing education within the year immediately preceding the reinstatement application.
Fee
200 dollars.
Practice Recency
The applicant has not been out of active clinical practice for longer than five years; DPH's stated refresher-or-examination policy applies to longer absences.
Prior License
Connecticut LCSW license lapsed due to nonrenewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
15 hours per registration period; at least five in person or synchronous online and at most ten asynchronous, distance or home study.
Cultural Competency
At least one contact hour each registration period.
First Renewal
First renewal is exempt from continuing education.
Providers
ASWB, NASW, or a CSWE-accredited school or department of social work offers or approves the education.
Records
Retain completion certificates for at least three years and submit them on DPH request.
Renewal
Annual renewal during the birth month; a license becomes void 90 days after the renewal date without renewal.
Renewal Fee
200 dollars; an active-duty Connecticut resident may request the fee exemption described in DPH renewal instructions.
School Social Worker Alternative
A holder of the specified school-social-work educator certificate may use professional development under C.G.S. 10-148a for the same required number of hours.
Veterans Training
At least two hours in the first renewal period when education is required and at least once every six years thereafter, covering the specified veterans' mental-health and suicide-prevention topics.
Waivers
DPH may grant a medical-disability or illness waiver or extension; a person not practicing may request a waiver before the period expires.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to active practice after a continuing education waiver
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Complete seven hours no later than six months after returning to active practice and comply with certificate requirements.
License Status
This is return to practice under a license; DPH does not provide inactive license status. A license that became void instead requires reinstatement.
Waiver
Existing licensee returning after a continuing-education waiver under C.G.S. 20-195u(e).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensed master social worker

Master-level license for supervised clinical practice; independent practice is prohibited.

Licensing authority: Connecticut Department of Public Health · Application information

Reinstatement of a suspended or revoked license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Corrective Measures
DPH may impose the disciplinary or corrective measures authorized by C.G.S. 19a-17, including practice restrictions and professional education; no currently identified licensing examination is prescribed in this defining reinstatement provision.
Hearing
DPH must be satisfied after a hearing that the practitioner can practice with reasonable skill and safety.
Prior Action
Previously suspended or revoked Connecticut license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by endorsement
ASWB Masters Exam
Application Fee
No initial application fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d).
Commissioner Decision
Evidence must be satisfactory to the commissioner; endorsement may be granted.
Discipline
No pending professional disciplinary action or unresolved complaint.
Existing License
Master or clinical social worker license or certification in good standing in another state or jurisdiction; requirements substantially similar to or higher than Connecticut's.
Open Examination Alternative
The statute also permits another examination prescribed by the commissioner, or the ASWB successor organization; no further named current examination is identified.
Score
Successful completion of the corresponding ASWB level examination, including a passing result obtained before applying.
Licensure by examination
ASWB Masters Exam
Application Fee
No initial application fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d).
Documents
Official transcript directly from the institution; verification of all licenses held, where applicable; ASWB result where applicable; online application with photograph.
Dph Graduation Condition
DPH Master Social Worker Licensing Requirements states: Please note that the ASWB master's level examination is required of applicants who earned the MSW degree on and after January 1, 2026. The enacted C.G.S. 20-195o(b)(2) reinstates the examination requirement on January 1, 2026; the registered Masters examination remains a leaf. Applicants should have DPH determine the application of its graduation-cohort statement.
Education
Hold a master's degree from a CSWE-accredited program, or an in-state CSWE-candidate program offered during or after spring 2024 and before spring 2028; foreign education must be deemed equivalent by CSWE.
Open Examination Alternative
C.G.S. 20-195n(b)(2) also permits any other examination prescribed by the commissioner; no other named examination is identified by DPH.
Licensure by examination with foreign education equivalency
ASWB Masters Exam
Application Fee
No initial application fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d).
Documents
Official transcript directly from the institution; verification of all licenses held, where applicable; ASWB result where applicable; online application with photograph.
Dph Graduation Condition
DPH Master Social Worker Licensing Requirements states: Please note that the ASWB master's level examination is required of applicants who earned the MSW degree on and after January 1, 2026. The enacted C.G.S. 20-195o(b)(2) reinstates the examination requirement on January 1, 2026; the registered Masters examination remains a leaf. Applicants should have DPH determine the application of its graduation-cohort statement.
Education
An applicant educated outside the United States or its territories must complete a social work educational program deemed equivalent by CSWE.
Open Examination Alternative
C.G.S. 20-195n(b)(2) also permits any other examination prescribed by the commissioner; no other named examination is identified by DPH.
Licensure based on at least four years of licensed practice in another United States jurisdiction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Online profession application answering the four-year practice question affirmatively; direct verification of all state licenses.
Background Check
Satisfy any background or character-and-fitness check required of other applicants.
Department Discretion
C.G.S. 19a-14d(b) permits DPH to require all or part of the usual examination; its implementing four-year page presently exercises that permission by stating that applicants will not be required to complete an examination. The commissioner may deny a license in the state's best interest.
Experience
At least four years of practice under the held credential.
Fee
Pay any fees required of other applicants; initial social work applications have no fee under C.G.S. 20-195o(d).
Good Standing
All current and expired licenses must be in good standing; no revocation, discipline, pending unprofessional-conduct matter, or voluntary surrender during such investigation.
License
Valid license, permit, certification or registration in the profession in at least one other United States jurisdiction.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Renewal of a license that became void during qualifying military service
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Deadline
Apply no later than one year after discharge from qualifying service.
Documentation
DPH form and any other documentation it requires.
Education
Complete the continuing education or refresher training required for renewal of a license that has not become void.
Exclusions
Regular annual reservist or National Guard training outside mobilization does not qualify; no pending professional discipline or unresolved complaint.
Military Service
License became void while on active duty in the United States armed forces or while a National Guard member was ordered out by the Governor.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reinstatement after nonrenewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Online reinstatement application.
Documents
Current CV or synopsis of professional activity since the master's degree; verification of seven continuing-education hours in the year preceding application.
Fee
125 dollars.
Prior License
Connecticut master social worker license lapsed due to nonrenewal.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Annual license renewal
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Continuing Education
15 hours per registration period; at least five in person or synchronous online and at most ten asynchronous, distance or home study.
Cultural Competency
At least one contact hour each registration period.
First Renewal
First renewal is exempt from continuing education.
Providers
ASWB, NASW, or a CSWE-accredited school or department of social work offers or approves the education.
Records
Retain completion certificates for at least three years and submit them on DPH request.
Renewal
Annual renewal during the birth month; a license becomes void 90 days after the renewal date without renewal.
Renewal Fee
125 dollars; an active-duty Connecticut resident may request the fee exemption described in DPH renewal instructions.
School Social Worker Alternative
A holder of the specified school-social-work educator certificate may use professional development under C.G.S. 10-148a for the same required number of hours.
Veterans Training
At least two hours in the first renewal period when education is required and at least once every six years thereafter, covering the specified veterans' mental-health and suicide-prevention topics.
Waivers
DPH may grant a medical-disability or illness waiver or extension; a person not practicing may request a waiver before the period expires.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Return to active practice after a continuing education waiver
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Education
Complete seven hours no later than six months after returning to active practice and comply with certificate requirements.
License Status
This is return to practice under a license; DPH does not provide inactive license status. A license that became void instead requires reinstatement.
Waiver
Existing licensee returning after a continuing-education waiver under C.G.S. 20-195u(e).

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary permit to practice as a master social worker

Interim authorization for supervised master social work before taking the licensure examination.

Licensing authority: Connecticut Department of Public Health · Application information

Temporary permit pending the master social worker licensure examination
ASWB Masters Exam
Application
Submit online applications for the full master social worker license and temporary permit; upload degree-award evidence. Exam approval requires a full-license application and an official transcript directly from the program.
Duration
At most 120 calendar days after issuance; not renewable; an examination failure voids the permit and prevents reissuance.
Education
Hold the master's social work degree described in C.G.S. 20-195n.
Exam Timing
The applicant has not yet taken the licensing examination. Passage is not required to issue this permit; the Masters exam is the examination involved in the pending full-license route.
Fee
No fee for the temporary permit.
Practice
Practice as a master social worker under supervision.

ASWB Clinical Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$260 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (36%) (36%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Research ethics (e.g., institutional review boards, use of human subjects, informed consent)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (32% — the heading in the Clinical content outline prints no percentage; page 6 of the guidebook states the Clinical examination will have 32 percent of the questions testing Assessment and Planning) (32%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Use of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in assessment and common indicators of mental health and brain-related conditions
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Developing formal documents (e.g., grants, proposals, reports, evaluations)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Couples interventions and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role play techniques
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of establishing program objectives and outcomes
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Program evaluation and related impact on services
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Quality assurance (e.g., program reviews and audits by external sources)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Fiscal management and resource allocation techniques
Examination sources

ASWB Masters Exam

Provider
Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB); administered on computer at Pearson test centers
Format
Computer-based multiple-choice examination (three- and four-option questions) in two 61-question sections, each with a two-hour time limit; scored and pretest questions are mixed together; results reported as pass/fail
Exam questions
122 multiple-choice questions: 110 scored and 12 unscored pretest questions
Time limit
4 hours (two sections, each with a two-hour time limit)
Passing score
Pass/fail; the number of correct answers required varies by exam form and generally ranges from 66 to 78 of the 110 scored questions
Exam fee
US$230 exam registration fee
Examination outline
  • I. VALUES AND ETHICS (35%) (35%)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues regarding confidentiality, including limitations of confidentiality (e.g., HIPAA, PHI, privacy)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Legal and ethical issues related to the practice of social work, including responsibility to clients/client systems, colleagues, the profession, and society
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Burnout, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Social worker self-care principles
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Importance of professional development activities to improve practice and maintain current professional knowledge (e.g., in-service training, licensing requirements, reviews of literature, workshops, on-going supervision, consultation)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Professional boundaries in the social worker-client/client system relationship (e.g., power differences, influence, privilege, conflicts of interest, self-disclosure, dual relationships)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Protecting and enhancing client/client system self-determination (e.g., medication, medical treatment, counseling, placement, right to refuse services)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding mandatory reporting (e.g., abuse, threat of harm, impaired professionals, duty to warn)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Impact of governmental policies on service delivery (e.g., local, state, federal legislation and policy)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues related to death and dying
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues related to electronic practice
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Legal and ethical issues regarding termination
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Anti-oppressive and anti-racist approaches
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social, racial, environmental, and economic justice principles
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of culture, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and intersectionality on behaviors, attitudes, and identity formation
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Privilege and bias and their impact on client/client systems (e.g., implicit bias, microaggressions)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Cultural impacts of exploitation across marginalized communities (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women)
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • IC. DIVERSITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE — Impact of globalization, immigration, and refugee or immigration status on clients/client systems and service delivery
  • II. ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING (33%) (33%)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of trauma, stressors, violence, and crises on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., intergenerational, historical, and complex)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Family dynamics and functioning and the effects on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of out-of-home placement (e.g., hospitalization, foster care, residential care, criminal justice system) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of aging on the individual and family systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Racial, ethnic, cultural, and spiritual/faith development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — The influence and impact of technology, including social media, on client/client-systems (personal and professional)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of urbanization, globalization, environmental hazards, and climate change on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Client/client system competence, self-determination, and self-monitoring techniques (e.g., financial decisions, treatment decisions, emancipation, age of consent, permanency planning)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles and techniques of interviewing (e.g., supporting, clarifying, confronting, validating, feedback, reflecting, language differences, use of interpreters)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing risk of harm to self and others
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of involving clients/client systems in problem identification, problem solving, and intervention planning
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Indicators of and methods of assessing motivation, barriers, and readiness for change
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of assessing clients’/client systems’ communication skills
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of incorporating information from records and evaluations (e.g., employment, medical, psychological, school)
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Assessing the availability of and determining appropriate community resources
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Cultural considerations in the creation of an intervention plan
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Factors and processes used in goal planning, treatment planning, triage, and service plans
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Criteria used in the selection of intervention/treatment modalities (e.g., client/client system abilities, developmental level, culture, life stage)
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — The social worker’s role in the problem-solving process
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Interdisciplinary and intra-disciplinary team collaboration (e.g., co-therapy, care conference, IEP)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Parenting capacities and skill building
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Evidence-based practices (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness based stress reduction, motivational interviewing, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Techniques for evaluating progress and effectiveness of intervention, treatment, and service plans
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods of evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Basic and applied research design and methods, data collection and analysis methods, and methods to assess reliability and validity in social work research (e.g., objective, subjective, qualitative, quantitative)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervisee’s role in supervision (e.g., identifying learning needs, self-assessment, prioritizing)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures for safe, inclusive, and a healthy work environment
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Methods for creating, implementing, and evaluating policies and procedures that minimize risk for individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Supervision and consultation models and techniques (e.g., individual, peer, group, case recording)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
Examination sources