NASM CWC exam-day guide
NASM CWC · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring an unexpired ID with a name that exactly matches your registration. Accepted ID types vary by provider and testing modality, so confirm the list with the provider before exam day.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have your registration email, appointment time, time zone, and confirmation or eligibility number accessible. Confirm whether a printed copy is required or a digital copy is acceptable.
Testing-platform login credentials
Verify your username and password before test day. If you cannot log in, reset credentials or contact support at least 72 hours before your appointment.
Computer with webcam, microphone, and speakers
Required if your exam is online-proctored. Run the provider's system check on the same device and browser you will use on exam day. Confirm technical requirements with the provider.
Stable internet connection with a backup plan
Use a wired or reliable connection. Know a backup location or hotspot option, and confirm the provider's policy for technical interruptions.
Quiet, private, well-lit room
Clear the desk and surrounding area of notes, books, phones, smartwatches, and extra monitors. Confirm whether the room must be closed and whether a room scan is required.
Power adapter or charger
Keep your device plugged in during the exam to avoid battery failure. Confirm whether power cables are allowed in the testing area.
Water in a clear container and a light snack
Prepare these only if breaks are permitted. Confirm break policy, including whether the exam clock runs during breaks.
Scratch paper, pen, or approved virtual whiteboard
Many proctored exams prohibit physical scratch paper. Confirm which note-taking tools, if any, are allowed before the exam begins.
Candidate handbook or exam rules summary
Review the provider's current candidate handbook for identification, conduct, break, and scoring rules. Do not rely on memory or third-party summaries.
Transportation and arrival plan for in-person testing
If testing at a center, confirm the address, parking, and recommended arrival time. Aim to arrive early and confirm the late-arrival policy with the provider.
Plan the day
Confirm your appointment date, time, time zone, and testing modality. Reschedule only through the provider's official process if needed.
If online-proctored, run the system check on your exam device and browser. Test your webcam, microphone, speakers, and internet connection.
Locate your government-issued photo ID and verify that the name matches your registration exactly.
Review the exam content outline at a high level. Avoid learning new material; focus on pacing and question-reading strategy.
Confirm login credentials and appointment details. Charge your device and prepare your testing room.
Get a full night of sleep. Avoid cramming and reduce screen time before bed.
Eat a normal meal, hydrate, and dress appropriately. Clear your testing area of unauthorized materials and devices.
Join or arrive 15–30 minutes early. Complete identity verification and listen carefully to proctor instructions.
Read each question fully, flag uncertain items, and return to them if time allows. Monitor your pace against the number of remaining questions.
If a technical issue occurs, pause and contact the proctor or support immediately. Ask for a case or ticket number before troubleshooting alone.
Confirm how and when your score will be reported, and ask about retake or appeals procedures if needed.
Rules to check
Present a valid government-issued photo ID. The name must match your registration; confirm accepted ID forms with the provider.
Keep the testing area free of unauthorized materials, including notes, phones, smartwatches, and extra monitors. Follow all proctor instructions.
Remain in camera view and in the testing room for the duration of the exam. Leave only during approved breaks and follow the provider's break rules.
Confirm the number and length of breaks and whether the exam clock runs during breaks. Do not assume a break policy.
Confirm the passing score, score-report timing, and retake policy with the provider before exam day.
Report any technical problem or suspected security issue to the proctor immediately and request a case number.
Do not share, record, photograph, or reproduce exam content. Follow the provider's academic-integrity and confidentiality rules.
Arrive or log in early. Confirm the provider's late-arrival and no-show policy in advance.