Association of Social Work Boards Test

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) test assesses prospective social workers to ensure that they have the knowledge and professionalism required to work in the field of social work. A passing score on the ASWB exam is mandatory to obtain a license and legally work in the field.

If you are interested in taking the ASWB exam, the first step is to register for it. The registration process occurs through the social work board in your area. Registration information can typically found online on the Board’s website. Registration cannot be completed without Board approval. You will need to contact someone and ask for their approval before moving forward with the test. After approval is received, you will then be able to complete the registration process online or by phone.

The ASWB test consists of 170 multiple-choice questions; however, only 150 questions count toward your final score. Four possible answers are listed for each question. Although the test is computer-based, no prior computer experience is necessary to take the test. The system is very easy to use and even includes a tutorial review so you can familiarize yourself with the interface before the test starts. Tests in pencil-and-paper format are not readily available.

The ASWB test is available in four levels: bachelors, masters, advanced generalist and clinical. An advanced generalist is for someone with a master’s degree, plus two years of supervised experience, while the clinical level requires a master’s degree and two years of clinical experience in the field. The allotted time for the test is four hours. The minimum score depends on the test level, but ranges from 57-80 percent, with the number of correct answers needed varying from 103-115.

The ASWB test does not include scheduled breaks. You are allowed to take breaks, if needed, during the test, but it is up to each individual student to plan her break time and be able to still complete the test in the allocated four hours. Special accommodations can be made for those with disabilities. These include extra time for those students who speak a primary language other than English, as well as pencil-and-paper tests for those unable to use a computer. However, you must fill out a special application ahead of time so that the accommodations can be made. This form can be found in the ASWB Candidate Handbook. Applicants must receive prior approval before taking the test with accommodations.

After you complete the ASWB test, you will have to wait for your results to arrive in the mail. Due to security reasons, test scores cannot be divulged over the telephone. You will receive a score report showing the passing score, as well as the number of questions you actually answered correctly. The score report will also break down your results by content area.

How your ASWB test is scored depends on the specific social workers board. Some may give a numerical score, while others may grade it as simply “pass” or “fail.” A numerical score is not that important because all that is required is a “pass” or “fail”. The results are valid throughout the country. If you pass in one jurisdiction, you essentially pass in all of them. This same rule applies if you fail in one jurisdiction. However, a passing score does not necessarily guarantee licensure in all jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction has different licensing requirements, so you will need to check with the board in your jurisdiction of choice to ensure that you have met all of their licensing requirements.