The Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) and the National Counselor Examination (NCE) are often discussed together, but they serve different purposes in the journey to becoming a licensed counselor.

 

Understanding the Purpose of Each Exam

  • CECE: The CECE is an exit exam used by graduate counseling programs to assess students’ knowledge before they graduate. It is not a licensure exam but is often required for degree completion.
  • NCE: The NCE is a national licensure exam required for becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in many states. It is administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC).

Content Overlap Between the CECE and NCE

Both exams cover similar content based on the CACREP core areas. However, the NCE contains 200 questions, with only 160 of those questions being scored, while the CECE has 120 scored questions. The NCE also features more questions in specific areas Helping Relationships and Career Development.

 

How to Prepare for Both Exams

Preparation for the CECE and NCE is quite similar since both exams focus on the same core counseling knowledge. Here are some tips to streamline your study process:

 

  1. Master the Core Content Areas
    Both exams assess knowledge in key counseling domains like human development, ethics, and group work. Prioritize these topics during your study sessions to ensure a strong foundation.
  2. Take Practice Exams
    CECE practice exams and NCE practice tests help simulate the exam environment and identify areas needing more attention. Incorporate timed practice sessions to build stamina and familiarity with exam formats.
  3. Join Study Groups or Attend Workshops
    Engaging with peers in study groups or participating in review workshops can reinforce your understanding and expose you to different perspectives.
  4. Follow a Structured Study Plan
    Create a consistent schedule that allows you to cover all content areas without last-minute cramming. Regular, focused study sessions are key.
  5. Use Study Resources
    Consult your graduate program for tailored study guides, practice exams, or review sessions specifically designed to prepare you for both the CECE and NCE.