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Minnesota Social Work — Requirements & Free Practice

US-MN · License preparation

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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 Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)

Standard Minnesota social work license. Compact issuance is not yet operational; military portability recognizes a license held elsewhere rather than issuing this Minnesota license.

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Social Work · Application information

Restoration after automatic suspension for incapacity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Action
Petition the Board; following a hearing or agreement the Board must terminate the suspension, with or without conditions or restrictions, including participation in the health professional services program.
Capacity
Be restored to capacity by a court.
Individual Conditions
Comply with any individual Board order. The separate disciplinary-maintenance route carries examinations the Board may identify under section 148E.260.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Maintaining licensure under Board disciplinary conditions
Board Discretion
Section 148E.260 subdivision 1(a)(5) permits the Board to require passing an examination provided for in section 148E.055. The actual Board order determines whether examination is required and which examination applies; this does not require every listed examination of every applicant.
Other Conditions
Comply with the Board order, including any additional education, supervision, restrictions, fees or other imposed conditions.
Return from emeritus active to ordinary active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Eligibility
Apply while the emeritus active license remains current.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from emeritus inactive
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Relicensure by examination after the emeritus inactive reactivation period
ASWB Masters Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
More than four years have elapsed since emeritus inactive status became effective.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Masters score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
For nonclinical practice, 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 postgraduate practice hours; clinical practice follows section 148E.106, including 200 supervision hours and the applicable clinical practice limits.
Licensure by endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Current License
Hold an active social work license or credential in another jurisdiction at the graduate or masters level. Provide verification directly from each issuing licensing agency.
Education
Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Military Portability
The Board separately validates licenses held elsewhere for servicemembers and spouses relocated to Minnesota under military orders after receiving orders, photo identification, good-standing verification, a public address, and its portability registration form. This registry recognition does not issue a new Minnesota license.
Supervision Exception
The nonclinical supervised-practice requirement is excused for 4,000 hours of corresponding licensed practice in the other jurisdiction during the four years immediately preceding application; LGSW clinical practice still requires clinical supervision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination
ASWB Masters Exam
Applicant
No current social work license in another jurisdiction; existing Minnesota licensees applying to a higher standard license use this examination pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Masters score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
For nonclinical practice, 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 postgraduate practice hours; clinical practice follows section 148E.106, including 200 supervision hours and the applicable clinical practice limits.
Reactivation of an expired license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the license expiration date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after the expired license reactivation period
ASWB Masters Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
License expiration occurred more than one year before application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Masters score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
For nonclinical practice, 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 postgraduate practice hours; clinical practice follows section 148E.106, including 200 supervision hours and the applicable clinical practice limits.
Standard licensure after completion of provisional requirements
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Postconversion Supervision
The standard license supervised-practice requirements apply separately; provisional supervised practice does not count toward them.
Provisional Completion
Complete section 148E.0551 subdivisions 1–6, including 37.5 supervision hours over the first 2,000 practice hours and required supervisor evaluations; maintain all applicable section 148E.055 qualifications other than its examination clause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Standard license renewal, including renewal within the 60 day late period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed renewal application and the applicable fee by expiration; a late renewal with the required late fee is permitted within 60 days.
Continuing Education
Complete 40 hours per two-year renewal term, including 2 ethics and 4 cultural-responsiveness hours; LICSWs require 12 clinical-content hours, licensing supervisors require 6 supervision hours, and at most half may be independent learning. Proration and a one-time extension apply as stated in section 148E.130.
Optional Learning Module
The Board permits the Jurisprudence Online Learning Module once in a two-year cycle for optional continuing-education credit. Section 148E.070 does not require this examination for ordinary renewal.
Supervised Practice
Document applicable supervised practice under sections 148E.100–148E.125.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after termination of a stipulation to cease practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Stipulation
Petition for termination only at the time and under the circumstances specified in the written stipulation; comply with the Board decision and any individual conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from temporary leave
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Restoration after review of a temporary disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Within five days of service request the hearing provided in section 148E.260 subdivision 3; the Board determines whether to continue, modify, or lift the suspension, subject to any contested-case proceedings.
Individual Order
Practice resumes only as authorized by the Board order; any identified section 148E.055 examination falls under the separately recorded disciplinary-maintenance route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of a voluntarily terminated license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the effective date of voluntary termination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after voluntary termination
ASWB Masters Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
The voluntarily terminated license is not being restored within the one-year reactivation period.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Masters score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
For nonclinical practice, 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 postgraduate practice hours; clinical practice follows section 148E.106, including 200 supervision hours and the applicable clinical practice limits.

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)

Standard Minnesota social work license. Compact issuance is not yet operational; military portability recognizes a license held elsewhere rather than issuing this Minnesota license.

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Social Work · Application information

Restoration after automatic suspension for incapacity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Action
Petition the Board; following a hearing or agreement the Board must terminate the suspension, with or without conditions or restrictions, including participation in the health professional services program.
Capacity
Be restored to capacity by a court.
Individual Conditions
Comply with any individual Board order. The separate disciplinary-maintenance route carries examinations the Board may identify under section 148E.260.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Maintaining licensure under Board disciplinary conditions
Board Discretion
Section 148E.260 subdivision 1(a)(5) permits the Board to require passing an examination provided for in section 148E.055. The actual Board order determines whether examination is required and which examination applies; this does not require every listed examination of every applicant.
Other Conditions
Comply with the Board order, including any additional education, supervision, restrictions, fees or other imposed conditions.
Return from emeritus active to ordinary active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Eligibility
Apply while the emeritus active license remains current.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from emeritus inactive
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Relicensure by examination after the emeritus inactive reactivation period
ASWB Clinical Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
More than four years have elapsed since emeritus inactive status became effective.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Clinical Education
Document 360 clinical clock hours: 108 diagnosis/biopsychosocial assessment, 36 treatment planning, 108 intervention methods, 18 evaluation, 72 values/ethics, and 18 culturally specific assessment/intervention. Graduate coursework or up to 120 eligible continuing-education hours may satisfy the requirement.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Clinical score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 200 supervision hours over 4,000–8,000 hours of postgraduate clinical practice, including 1,800 direct clinical client-contact hours; statutory credit and exceptions apply to qualifying pre-August 1, 2011 practice and licenses.
Licensure by endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Clinical Education
The Board does not require 360 clinical clock-hour documentation for endorsement applicants.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Current License
Hold an active social work license or credential in another jurisdiction at the independent clinical level. Provide verification directly from each issuing licensing agency.
Education
Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Military Portability
The Board separately validates licenses held elsewhere for servicemembers and spouses relocated to Minnesota under military orders after receiving orders, photo identification, good-standing verification, a public address, and its portability registration form. This registry recognition does not issue a new Minnesota license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination
ASWB Clinical Exam
Applicant
No current social work license in another jurisdiction; existing Minnesota licensees applying to a higher standard license use this examination pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Clinical Education
Document 360 clinical clock hours: 108 diagnosis/biopsychosocial assessment, 36 treatment planning, 108 intervention methods, 18 evaluation, 72 values/ethics, and 18 culturally specific assessment/intervention. Graduate coursework or up to 120 eligible continuing-education hours may satisfy the requirement.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Clinical score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 200 supervision hours over 4,000–8,000 hours of postgraduate clinical practice, including 1,800 direct clinical client-contact hours; statutory credit and exceptions apply to qualifying pre-August 1, 2011 practice and licenses.
Reactivation of an expired license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the license expiration date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after the expired license reactivation period
ASWB Clinical Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
License expiration occurred more than one year before application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Clinical Education
Document 360 clinical clock hours: 108 diagnosis/biopsychosocial assessment, 36 treatment planning, 108 intervention methods, 18 evaluation, 72 values/ethics, and 18 culturally specific assessment/intervention. Graduate coursework or up to 120 eligible continuing-education hours may satisfy the requirement.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Clinical score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 200 supervision hours over 4,000–8,000 hours of postgraduate clinical practice, including 1,800 direct clinical client-contact hours; statutory credit and exceptions apply to qualifying pre-August 1, 2011 practice and licenses.
Standard licensure after completion of provisional requirements
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Postconversion Supervision
The standard license supervised-practice requirements apply separately; provisional supervised practice does not count toward them.
Provisional Completion
Complete section 148E.0551 subdivisions 1–6, including 37.5 supervision hours over the first 2,000 practice hours and required supervisor evaluations; maintain all applicable section 148E.055 qualifications other than its examination clause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Standard license renewal, including renewal within the 60 day late period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed renewal application and the applicable fee by expiration; a late renewal with the required late fee is permitted within 60 days.
Continuing Education
Complete 40 hours per two-year renewal term, including 2 ethics and 4 cultural-responsiveness hours; LICSWs require 12 clinical-content hours, licensing supervisors require 6 supervision hours, and at most half may be independent learning. Proration and a one-time extension apply as stated in section 148E.130.
Optional Learning Module
The Board permits the Jurisprudence Online Learning Module once in a two-year cycle for optional continuing-education credit. Section 148E.070 does not require this examination for ordinary renewal.
Supervised Practice
Document applicable supervised practice under sections 148E.100–148E.125.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after termination of a stipulation to cease practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Stipulation
Petition for termination only at the time and under the circumstances specified in the written stipulation; comply with the Board decision and any individual conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from temporary leave
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Restoration after review of a temporary disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Within five days of service request the hearing provided in section 148E.260 subdivision 3; the Board determines whether to continue, modify, or lift the suspension, subject to any contested-case proceedings.
Individual Order
Practice resumes only as authorized by the Board order; any identified section 148E.055 examination falls under the separately recorded disciplinary-maintenance route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of a voluntarily terminated license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the effective date of voluntary termination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after voluntary termination
ASWB Clinical Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
The voluntarily terminated license is not being restored within the one-year reactivation period.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Clinical Education
Document 360 clinical clock hours: 108 diagnosis/biopsychosocial assessment, 36 treatment planning, 108 intervention methods, 18 evaluation, 72 values/ethics, and 18 culturally specific assessment/intervention. Graduate coursework or up to 120 eligible continuing-education hours may satisfy the requirement.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Clinical score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 200 supervision hours over 4,000–8,000 hours of postgraduate clinical practice, including 1,800 direct clinical client-contact hours; statutory credit and exceptions apply to qualifying pre-August 1, 2011 practice and licenses.

Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)

Standard Minnesota social work license. Compact issuance is not yet operational; military portability recognizes a license held elsewhere rather than issuing this Minnesota license.

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Social Work · Application information

Restoration after automatic suspension for incapacity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Action
Petition the Board; following a hearing or agreement the Board must terminate the suspension, with or without conditions or restrictions, including participation in the health professional services program.
Capacity
Be restored to capacity by a court.
Individual Conditions
Comply with any individual Board order. The separate disciplinary-maintenance route carries examinations the Board may identify under section 148E.260.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Maintaining licensure under Board disciplinary conditions
Board Discretion
Section 148E.260 subdivision 1(a)(5) permits the Board to require passing an examination provided for in section 148E.055. The actual Board order determines whether examination is required and which examination applies; this does not require every listed examination of every applicant.
Other Conditions
Comply with the Board order, including any additional education, supervision, restrictions, fees or other imposed conditions.
Return from emeritus active to ordinary active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Eligibility
Apply while the emeritus active license remains current.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from emeritus inactive
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Relicensure by examination after the emeritus inactive reactivation period
ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
More than four years have elapsed since emeritus inactive status became effective.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Advanced Generalist score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 100 supervision hours over 4,000 hours of nonclinical postgraduate practice; clinical practice must comply with section 148E.110.
Licensure by endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Clinical Supervision
Clinical practice must comply with section 148E.110.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Current License
Hold an active social work license or credential in another jurisdiction at the advanced-practice graduate or masters level. Provide verification directly from each issuing licensing agency.
Education
Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Military Portability
The Board separately validates licenses held elsewhere for servicemembers and spouses relocated to Minnesota under military orders after receiving orders, photo identification, good-standing verification, a public address, and its portability registration form. This registry recognition does not issue a new Minnesota license.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination
ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam
Applicant
No current social work license in another jurisdiction; existing Minnesota licensees applying to a higher standard license use this examination pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Advanced Generalist score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 100 supervision hours over 4,000 hours of nonclinical postgraduate practice; clinical practice must comply with section 148E.110.
Reactivation of an expired license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the license expiration date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after the expired license reactivation period
ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
License expiration occurred more than one year before application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Advanced Generalist score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 100 supervision hours over 4,000 hours of nonclinical postgraduate practice; clinical practice must comply with section 148E.110.
Standard licensure after completion of provisional requirements
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Postconversion Supervision
The standard license supervised-practice requirements apply separately; provisional supervised practice does not count toward them.
Provisional Completion
Complete section 148E.0551 subdivisions 1–6, including 37.5 supervision hours over the first 2,000 practice hours and required supervisor evaluations; maintain all applicable section 148E.055 qualifications other than its examination clause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Standard license renewal, including renewal within the 60 day late period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed renewal application and the applicable fee by expiration; a late renewal with the required late fee is permitted within 60 days.
Continuing Education
Complete 40 hours per two-year renewal term, including 2 ethics and 4 cultural-responsiveness hours; LICSWs require 12 clinical-content hours, licensing supervisors require 6 supervision hours, and at most half may be independent learning. Proration and a one-time extension apply as stated in section 148E.130.
Optional Learning Module
The Board permits the Jurisprudence Online Learning Module once in a two-year cycle for optional continuing-education credit. Section 148E.070 does not require this examination for ordinary renewal.
Supervised Practice
Document applicable supervised practice under sections 148E.100–148E.125.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after termination of a stipulation to cease practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Stipulation
Petition for termination only at the time and under the circumstances specified in the written stipulation; comply with the Board decision and any individual conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from temporary leave
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Restoration after review of a temporary disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Within five days of service request the hearing provided in section 148E.260 subdivision 3; the Board determines whether to continue, modify, or lift the suspension, subject to any contested-case proceedings.
Individual Order
Practice resumes only as authorized by the Board order; any identified section 148E.055 examination falls under the separately recorded disciplinary-maintenance route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of a voluntarily terminated license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the effective date of voluntary termination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after voluntary termination
ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
The voluntarily terminated license is not being restored within the one-year reactivation period.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Graduate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program, or a doctorate in social work from an accredited university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Advanced Generalist score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Supervised Practice
Document 100 supervision hours over 4,000 hours of nonclinical postgraduate practice; clinical practice must comply with section 148E.110.

Licensed Social Worker (LSW)

Standard Minnesota social work license. Compact issuance is not yet operational; military portability recognizes a license held elsewhere rather than issuing this Minnesota license.

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Social Work · Application information

Restoration after automatic suspension for incapacity
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Action
Petition the Board; following a hearing or agreement the Board must terminate the suspension, with or without conditions or restrictions, including participation in the health professional services program.
Capacity
Be restored to capacity by a court.
Individual Conditions
Comply with any individual Board order. The separate disciplinary-maintenance route carries examinations the Board may identify under section 148E.260.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Maintaining licensure under Board disciplinary conditions
Board Discretion
Section 148E.260 subdivision 1(a)(5) permits the Board to require passing an examination provided for in section 148E.055. The actual Board order determines whether examination is required and which examination applies; this does not require every listed examination of every applicant.
Other Conditions
Comply with the Board order, including any additional education, supervision, restrictions, fees or other imposed conditions.
Return from emeritus active to ordinary active status
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Eligibility
Apply while the emeritus active license remains current.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from emeritus inactive
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Relicensure by examination after the emeritus inactive reactivation period
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
More than four years have elapsed since emeritus inactive status became effective.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Baccalaureate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Bachelors score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
Complete 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 hours of authorized postbaccalaureate practice under section 148E.100 unless a statutory endorsement exception applies.
Licensure by endorsement
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Current License
Hold an active social work license or credential in another jurisdiction at the baccalaureate level. Provide verification directly from each issuing licensing agency.
Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Military Portability
The Board separately validates licenses held elsewhere for servicemembers and spouses relocated to Minnesota under military orders after receiving orders, photo identification, good-standing verification, a public address, and its portability registration form. This registry recognition does not issue a new Minnesota license.
Supervision Exception
The nonclinical supervised-practice requirement is excused for 4,000 hours of corresponding licensed practice in the other jurisdiction during the four years immediately preceding application; LGSW clinical practice still requires clinical supervision.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Licensure by examination
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Applicant
No current social work license in another jurisdiction; existing Minnesota licensees applying to a higher standard license use this examination pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Baccalaureate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Bachelors score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
Complete 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 hours of authorized postbaccalaureate practice under section 148E.100 unless a statutory endorsement exception applies.
Reactivation of an expired license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the license expiration date.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after the expired license reactivation period
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
License expiration occurred more than one year before application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Baccalaureate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Bachelors score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
Complete 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 hours of authorized postbaccalaureate practice under section 148E.100 unless a statutory endorsement exception applies.
Standard licensure after completion of provisional requirements
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Baccalaureate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Postconversion Supervision
The standard license supervised-practice requirements apply separately; provisional supervised practice does not count toward them.
Provisional Completion
Complete section 148E.0551 subdivisions 1–6, including 37.5 supervision hours over the first 2,000 practice hours and required supervisor evaluations; maintain all applicable section 148E.055 qualifications other than its examination clause.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Standard license renewal, including renewal within the 60 day late period
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed renewal application and the applicable fee by expiration; a late renewal with the required late fee is permitted within 60 days.
Continuing Education
Complete 40 hours per two-year renewal term, including 2 ethics and 4 cultural-responsiveness hours; LICSWs require 12 clinical-content hours, licensing supervisors require 6 supervision hours, and at most half may be independent learning. Proration and a one-time extension apply as stated in section 148E.130.
Optional Learning Module
The Board permits the Jurisprudence Online Learning Module once in a two-year cycle for optional continuing-education credit. Section 148E.070 does not require this examination for ordinary renewal.
Supervised Practice
Document applicable supervised practice under sections 148E.100–148E.125.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Restoration after termination of a stipulation to cease practice
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Stipulation
Petition for termination only at the time and under the circumstances specified in the written stipulation; comply with the Board decision and any individual conditions.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation from temporary leave
Jurisprudence Online Learning Module (practice unavailable)
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable prorated reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Complete at least two continuing-education hours in social work ethics, in addition to the jurisprudence examination. An extension may be requested under section 148E.130 subdivision 10.
Eligibility
Reactivate within four years of the effective date of the alternate status.
Passing Score
Complete the Board online jurisprudence module with a 100% passing score.
Restoration after review of a temporary disciplinary suspension
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Board Review
Within five days of service request the hearing provided in section 148E.260 subdivision 3; the Board determines whether to continue, modify, or lift the suspension, subject to any contested-case proceedings.
Individual Order
Practice resumes only as authorized by the Board order; any identified section 148E.055 examination falls under the separately recorded disciplinary-maintenance route.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Reactivation of a voluntarily terminated license
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed reactivation application and applicable reactivation fee.
Continuing Education
Document the continuing-education requirements in effect when the license expired or was voluntarily terminated.
Eligibility
Apply within one year of the effective date of voluntary termination.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Relicensure by examination after voluntary termination
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Alternative Pathways
Section 148E.055 also provides the separately recorded endorsement and provisional-completion pathways when their applicant qualifications are met.
Applicant
The voluntarily terminated license is not being restored within the one-year reactivation period.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Early Testing
Take the examination no earlier than six months before completing degree requirements.
Education
Baccalaureate degree in social work from a CSWE-, Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work-, or Board-designated accredited program.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Examination Score
Passing ASWB Bachelors score. A score is invalid if passed eight or more years before application.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Foreign Degree
A qualifying equivalency determination by CSWE or the Board-designated accreditor is required for an otherwise unaccredited degree earned outside the United States or Canada.
Other Approved Examination
The statute also permits an equivalent examination administered by a similar examination body designated by the Board; it does not identify an additional specific examination.
Postlicensure Supervision
Complete 100 supervision hours during the first 4,000 hours of authorized postbaccalaureate practice under section 148E.100 unless a statutory endorsement exception applies.

Temporary License Baccalaureate Social Worker

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Social Work · Application information

Temporary licensure for graduates of programs in accreditation candidacy status
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Applicant
Student or person not licensed in another jurisdiction; submit a current standard LSW application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all baccalaureate social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a program in CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accreditation candidacy status.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Twelve months; expires earlier upon issuance of a standard license. Nonrenewable but may be extended while the program remains in candidacy; revoke immediately if accreditation is denied.
Temporary licensure for applicants actively licensed in another jurisdiction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed temporary-license application, criminal background check and required fees.
Current License
Hold an active social work license or credential in another jurisdiction at the corresponding baccalaureate or graduate level.
Ethical Conduct
Meet statutory ethical standards.
Representation
Use the temporary license title rather than a standard Minnesota license credential.
Scope
Baccalaureate practice is nonclinical; graduate practice is consistent with the level and scope of the license held in the other jurisdiction.
Term
Six months or until a standard license is issued, whichever is earlier; nonrenewable and may not be issued more than once in twelve months.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary licensure for students or persons not licensed in another jurisdiction
ASWB Bachelors Exam
Applicant
Student or person not licensed in another jurisdiction; submit a current standard LSW application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all baccalaureate social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accredited program; an accredited-university doctorate also meets the statutory graduate qualification.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Six months; expires earlier upon issuance of the standard license. Nonrenewable.

Temporary License Graduate Social Worker

Licensing authority: Minnesota Board of Social Work · Application information

Temporary licensure for graduates of programs in accreditation candidacy status
ASWB Masters Exam
Applicant
Student or person not licensed in another jurisdiction; submit a current standard LGSW application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all graduate or doctoral social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a program in CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accreditation candidacy status.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Twelve months; expires earlier upon issuance of a standard license. Nonrenewable but may be extended while the program remains in candidacy; revoke immediately if accreditation is denied.
Temporary graduate licensure with a pending standard LICSW application from an accreditation candidacy program
ASWB Clinical Exam
Applicant
Student or person not currently licensed in another jurisdiction, with a current standard LICSW application under section 148E.055.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all graduate or doctoral social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a program in CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accreditation candidacy status.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Implementation Qualification
The Board temporary-license page lists standard applications as LSW or LGSW in its student/candidacy eligibility instructions: “Standard License Application: Submitted an application for standard licensure (LSW or LGSW)”. The controlling section 148E.060 instead refers without that limitation to the current application and applicable examination under section 148E.055. Board processing of this statutory pathway should be confirmed for the individual application.
Prior Standard Qualifications
Meet the applicable education, clinical education if applicable, and supervised-practice qualifications for the pending LICSW license under section 148E.055 subdivision 5.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Twelve months; expires earlier upon issuance of a standard license. Nonrenewable but may be extended while the program remains in candidacy; revoke immediately if accreditation is denied.
Temporary graduate licensure with a pending standard LISW application from an accreditation candidacy program
ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam
Applicant
Student or person not currently licensed in another jurisdiction, with a current standard LISW application under section 148E.055.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all graduate or doctoral social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a program in CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accreditation candidacy status.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Implementation Qualification
The Board temporary-license page lists standard applications as LSW or LGSW in its student/candidacy eligibility instructions: “Standard License Application: Submitted an application for standard licensure (LSW or LGSW)”. The controlling section 148E.060 instead refers without that limitation to the current application and applicable examination under section 148E.055. Board processing of this statutory pathway should be confirmed for the individual application.
Prior Standard Qualifications
Meet the applicable education, clinical education if applicable, and supervised-practice qualifications for the pending LISW license under section 148E.055 subdivision 4.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Twelve months; expires earlier upon issuance of a standard license. Nonrenewable but may be extended while the program remains in candidacy; revoke immediately if accreditation is denied.
Temporary licensure for applicants actively licensed in another jurisdiction
No examination is required for this applicant pathway.
Application
Submit a completed signed temporary-license application, criminal background check and required fees.
Current License
Hold an active social work license or credential in another jurisdiction at the corresponding baccalaureate or graduate level.
Ethical Conduct
Meet statutory ethical standards.
Representation
Use the temporary license title rather than a standard Minnesota license credential.
Scope
Baccalaureate practice is nonclinical; graduate practice is consistent with the level and scope of the license held in the other jurisdiction.
Term
Six months or until a standard license is issued, whichever is earlier; nonrenewable and may not be issued more than once in twelve months.

Official no-examination sources

Effective from 2026-09-22.

Temporary licensure for students or persons not licensed in another jurisdiction
ASWB Masters Exam
Applicant
Student or person not licensed in another jurisdiction; submit a current standard LGSW application.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all graduate or doctoral social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accredited program; an accredited-university doctorate also meets the statutory graduate qualification.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Six months; expires earlier upon issuance of the standard license. Nonrenewable.
Temporary graduate licensure with a pending standard LICSW application
ASWB Clinical Exam
Applicant
Student or person not currently licensed in another jurisdiction, with a current standard LICSW application under section 148E.055.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all graduate or doctoral social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accredited program; an accredited-university doctorate also meets the statutory graduate qualification.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Implementation Qualification
The Board temporary-license page lists standard applications as LSW or LGSW in its student/candidacy eligibility instructions: “Standard License Application: Submitted an application for standard licensure (LSW or LGSW)”. The controlling section 148E.060 instead refers without that limitation to the current application and applicable examination under section 148E.055. Board processing of this statutory pathway should be confirmed for the individual application.
Prior Standard Qualifications
Meet the applicable education, clinical education if applicable, and supervised-practice qualifications for the pending LICSW license under section 148E.055 subdivision 5.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Six months; expires earlier upon issuance of the standard license. Nonrenewable.
Temporary graduate licensure with a pending standard LISW application
ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam
Applicant
Student or person not currently licensed in another jurisdiction, with a current standard LISW application under section 148E.055.
Application
Submit a completed signed application, or the specified electronic attestation, and required supporting documents.
Application Deadline
Complete the application and requested information within one year, subject to the statutory candidacy-program accreditation extension.
Criminal Background Check
Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check and applicable fee; the Board does not require another check when a current standard or temporary Minnesota social work license is held.
Education
Complete all graduate or doctoral social-work degree requirements, coursework and internships, in a CSWE/Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work/Board-designated accredited program; an accredited-university doctorate also meets the statutory graduate qualification.
Ethical Conduct
Do not engage in conduct violating Minnesota Statutes sections 148E.195–148E.240; the Board may take statutory action if such conduct has occurred.
Exam Timing
The applicant must already have passed the applicable ASWB examination; passing before the temporary application does not remove the registered examination from the requirement tree.
Fees
Pay the applicable application and initial-license fees; initial licensure becomes effective when the Board receives the initial-license fee.
Implementation Qualification
The Board temporary-license page lists standard applications as LSW or LGSW in its student/candidacy eligibility instructions: “Standard License Application: Submitted an application for standard licensure (LSW or LGSW)”. The controlling section 148E.060 instead refers without that limitation to the current application and applicable examination under section 148E.055. Board processing of this statutory pathway should be confirmed for the individual application.
Prior Standard Qualifications
Meet the applicable education, clinical education if applicable, and supervised-practice qualifications for the pending LISW license under section 148E.055 subdivision 4.
Representation
Use the temporary license title; do not use LSW, LGSW, LISW or LICSW until a standard license is issued.
Scope
Baccalaureate temporary license does not authorize clinical practice; graduate temporary license authorizes clinical practice with required supervision.
Supervision
Comply with sections 148E.100–148E.125 and submit a supervision plan within 60 days of beginning practice. Temporary supervised practice counts toward standard-license requirements.
Term
Six months; expires earlier upon issuance of the standard license. Nonrenewable.

Jurisprudence Online Learning Module

Provider
Minnesota Board of Social Work
Format
Online module in the licensee Online Services account
Passing score
100%
Practice scope

Inferred from the examination name; the authority has not published an examination outline.

  • Minnesota Statutes Chapter 148E — Board of Social Work Practice
Examination sources

ASWB Advanced Generalist 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 (35%) (35%)
    • 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 — Professional values and principles (e.g., competence, social justice, integrity, dignity and worth of the person)
    • 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 — Principles and processes of obtaining informed consent
    • IA. ETHICAL PRINCIPLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES — Identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas
    • 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 documentation (e.g., maintaining client records)
    • 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 — 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 — Responsible billing practices (e.g., managed care, insurance reimbursement, incident to billing)
    • IB. ETHICAL SERVICE DELIVERY — Ethical issues in supervision and management
    • 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)
    • 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 — Accessibility including language, physical, and cultural access (e.g., translation and interpretation, neurodiversity, American Sign Language)
    • 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 — 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 — Power differential and racial privilege (e.g., internalized racial and ethnic inferiority and superiority)
    • 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 — Dynamics of interpersonal relationships and relationship development (e.g., family, couples, groups, polyamory)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Indicators of mental and emotional illness throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • 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 — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Impact of caregiving on families
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability 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 — Indicators, dynamics, and impact of exploitation across the lifespan (e.g., financial, immigration status, trafficking)
    • 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 — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual 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 — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • 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, techniques, and instruments for assessing client/client system strengths, resources, needs, and challenges
    • 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 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 for assessing resilience and coping abilities
    • IIB. ASSESSMENT METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods for obtaining sensitive and/or confidential information (e.g., substance use, sexual abuse)
    • 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 — 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 — 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 — Principles and techniques for building and maintaining a helping relationship (e.g., acceptance, empathy, rapport)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — End of life practice (e.g., continuity of care, hospice, palliative care, stages of death and dying)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Developing formal documents (e.g., grants, proposals, reports, evaluations)
    • 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 (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Verbal and nonverbal communication (e.g., body language, congruence, feedback)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — 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 (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Methods and approaches for providing trauma-informed care for various types of trauma (e.g., complex, vicarious)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Methods for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Principles of active listening and observation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Family therapy models, interventions, and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES (printed in the guidebook as 'IIB.') — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • 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 — Quality assurance (e.g., program reviews and audits by external sources)
    • 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)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Leadership and management techniques
    • 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 — Transference and countertransference within supervisory relationships
    • 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 — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Employee recruitment, training, retention, performance appraisal, evaluation, and discipline
Examination sources

ASWB Bachelors 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 — 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 — 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 — 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 — Social justice, truth and reconciliation, and restorative practices related to clients/client systems from historically oppressed and marginalized communities
    • 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 — 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 — 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 — Impact of poverty on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., social determinants of health)
    • 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 — Indicators and impact of addiction and substance use and abuse on individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
    • 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 — 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 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 — Factors of out-of-home displacement (e.g., homelessness, immigration, and refugee status) on clients/client systems
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Co-occurring disorders and conditions
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Factors influencing self- and body-image (e.g., culture, race, religion/spirituality, age, ability, trauma, gender, sexuality, size)
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Characteristics of perpetrators of abuse, neglect, and exploitation
    • 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 — Biopsychosocial assessment model and related components and factors
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Effects of physical and mental ability throughout the lifespan
    • IIA. ASSESSMENT CONCEPTS — Typical and atypical physical, cognitive, emotional, and sexual development 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 — Defense mechanisms and their effects on behavior and relationships
    • 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 — 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 — Components and function of the mental status examination
    • 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)
    • 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 — Indicators of client/client system readiness for termination
    • IIC. ASSESSMENT PRACTICES — Use and side effects of common prescription, over-the-counter, and alternative medications
  • III. INTERVENTION AND PRACTICE (32%) (32%)
    • 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 — Strengths-based and empowerment strategies and interventions
    • 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 — Permanency planning (e.g., child welfare)
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Policies, procedures, regulations, and legislation and their impact on social work practice and service delivery
    • IIIA. PRACTICE CONCEPTS — Community organizing, development, and mobilizing community participation
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Principles of active listening and observation
    • 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 — Limit and boundary setting techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Case management techniques (e.g., case recording, documentation, case presentation)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Approaches to and methods of advocacy for needed services and resources
    • 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 for engaging and motivating voluntary and involuntary clients/client systems
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Contracting and goal-setting techniques (e.g., partializing, measurable objectives)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Practice with clients experiencing loss, separation, and grief
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Emotional regulation techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Crisis intervention and treatment approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Stress management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Discharge, aftercare, wrap-around services, and follow-up
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Methods of teaching coping and other self-care skills to clients
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Techniques and methods for addiction intervention
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Establishing service networks or community resources
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Problem-solving models and approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Harm reduction techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Conflict resolution methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Anger management techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Task-centered approaches
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Psychoeducation methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Group work techniques and approaches (e.g., developing and managing group processes and cohesion)
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Role modeling techniques
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Social change and social planning methods
    • IIIB. INTERVENTION METHODS AND TECHNIQUES — Assertiveness training techniques
    • 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 evaluating agency programs (e.g., needs assessment, formative/summative assessment, cost-effectiveness, cost-benefit analysis, outcomes assessment)
    • IIIC. PRACTICE EVALUATION AND RESEARCH — Methods, techniques, and instruments used to evaluate social work practice
    • IIID. SUPERVISION AND ADMINISTRATION — Organizational development, structure, and functioning (e.g., policies, procedures)
    • 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
Examination sources

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