Interested in taking a licensure exam prep course? NASW-Pennsylvania has several resources available to social workers (and discounts if you’re a current NASW member)!

LSW & LCSW Licensure Exam Prep Course Overview

Licensure preparatory classes are designed for individuals who wish to review items that are frequently seen on the licensure exam. This is not a course that will rehash your entire MSW program, rather it will help refresh and clarify what you have learned either in school or as a social worker. The class day goes by quickly and a lot of information is covered. Manuals are included in the cost of class and will be provided to you the day of the training. Many attendees bring their own highlighters, scratch paper, pens, and post-it notes to identify pages in the manual for further study or clarification.

The instructors generally cover what to expect on the day of the examination, how to take a computerized exam, time that is needed for each question, and some test-taking strategies. Our instructors are all licensed and knowledgeable regarding the examination process.

In the event that you register for a class and are unable to attend, the refund policy is as follows: 5 days prior to the event, send us an e-mail requesting a refund. A check will be processed and mailed (minus a $30 administrative fee) usually within 14 days.

Cost are $80 for members of NASW and $155 for Non-Members

Upcoming Course Dates

TBA

Licensure Prep Manual

Please Note: As of August 2025 store orders will not ship till September 2025 as NASW-PA transitions to a new office. 

The licensure preparatory manual included in our licensure prep courses is also available as a standalone purchase here. If you are a member of NASW-PA, PLEASE log in first before purchasing the manual. 

The study manual contains over 250 pages for review. The manual is designed to allow readers to become more comfortable with the exam content and style. The manual discusses areas that you will be tested on and provides study materials related to those areas. A sample test is also included to help you prepare.

Licensure Exam FAQs

Who administers the social work exams?

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) administers all social work licensure exams for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This includes exams for LBSWs, LSWs, and LCSWs.

When can I schedule the social work exam?

Applicants cannot take the ASWB exam without receiving official notification from the State Board. This notification will provide you with detailed instructions on how to proceed with scheduling the exam at your local Pearson Testing Center.

Where do I schedule my exam?

Register to take the exam using ASWB's website at this link.

What score do I need to pass the exam in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, you must earn a 70% on the exam. Each state licensing body has its own respective requirements, therefore pass scores may vary from state to state.

If I do not pass the ASWB exam, when can I retake it?

ASWB requires licensure applicants to wait 90 days prior to retaking the examination. If your licensure application through the PA State Board is on file for more than 6 months, you will need to resubmit your application to become eligible to retake the examination.