ASWB Exam Changes

ASWB Exam Updates Are Coming

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The ASWB Exam is Changing in 2026
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The ASWB exam is expected to change in August of 2026, with new content outlines, a revised structure, and a stronger focus on applied knowledge and ethics. Start now to test before the changes and stay on track with your licensure, or prepare for the new exam format with confidence.


The ASWB Social Work Licensing Exams will transition to a new Content Outline and Exam Format as of August 2026

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) has published a new ASWB Examination Guidebook for the social work exams that will take effect this year. Learn more about how these changes will affect the exam below or click HERE to view the ASWB website.

The Advantage of Testing Early

Studying for the current ASWB exam gives you a head start. You can build knowledge, practice test-taking skills, and gain confidence with the familiar format. Testing before the August 2026 exam changes means you secure your license sooner and leverages your experience under the current exam structure, reducing uncertainty and helping you enter professional practice earlier with greater confidence.

AATBS offers comprehensive study packages for the ASWB Bachelors, Masters, and Clinical exams, including full-length practice exams, live online workshops, one-on-one coaching, a Pass Guarantee, and more. These resources give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence you need to succeed, whether you test before the 2026 updates or after.


Stay Updated and Prepared

We’ll continue monitoring updates from the ASWB and share details as they become available. You can focus on studying now, knowing that guidance and resources will be ready when you’re ready to test. Whether you test before the exam update or after, we’ll provide the support and tools you need to be fully prepared for the ASWB exam.


HOW THE EXAM IS ORGANIZED

Three content areas across all exams, with knowledge statements varying by each exam level

CONTENT AREAS

Values & Ethics; Assessment & Planning; Intervention & PracticeThree content areas across all exams, with knowledge statements varying by each exam level

FOCUS AND EMPHASIS

KSAs replaced by Applied Knowledge Statements; Values & Ethics is now the most heavily weighted area

QUESTION TYPE / FORMAT

110 scored + 12 pretest multiple choice questions, including a mix of three- and four-option questions, focused on applied knowledge, values, and ethical reasoning

HOW THE EXAM IS ORGANIZED

4 content areas that vary by exam level

CONTENT AREAS

Includes areas like human development, assessment, ethics, interventions, and more

FOCUS AND EMPHASIS

Focused on Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

QUESTION TYPE / FORMAT

170 multiple choice: 150 scored + 20 unscored (pre-test items)

Frequently Asked Questions


Preparing for the current ASWB exam now helps you build skills, gain confidence, and stay on track for licensure. Updated 2026 exam materials will be available soon, so you’ll be supported no matter which version you take.

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The 2026 ASWB exams will feature new content outlines, a revised structure, and an increased focus on applied knowledge and ethics, reflecting current social work practice.

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Learn how preparing now for the 2026 ASWB Bachelors, Masters, and Clinical exams can build knowledge, test-taking skills, and applied social work competencies.

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We know this can be a stressful and uncertain time so we've made it easy to succeed no matter what the future brings and we'll be there every step of the way.