The exams that change careers

The licensure exam every registered nurse in the US and Canada must pass to practice. Computer-adaptive, pass/fail, and the single gateway between nursing school and an RN license.

NCSBN · $200 · required to practice

One of two national board exams that license family nurse practitioners to practice across the lifespan. Passing confers the NP-C credential and is a prerequisite for state APRN licensure and prescriptive authority.

AANPCB (American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board) · $315 · required to practice

The licensure exam every licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN) in the US must pass to practice. Computer-adaptive and pass/fail — the single gateway between a practical nursing program and an LPN/LVN license.

NCSBN · $200 · required to practice

The ANCC's board certification for family nurse practitioners, conferring the FNP-BC credential required for APRN licensure and prescriptive authority. Organized around the nursing process across the lifespan.

ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) · $395 · required to practice

AACN's specialty certification for nurses caring for acutely ill adult progressive- and intermediate-care patients. A recognized wage-premium credential built on the AACN Synergy Model.

AACN Certification Corporation · $255

The gold-standard specialty credential for perioperative (operating room) registered nurses, validating competency across the surgical continuum. A widely recognized wage-premium certification for OR roles.

CCI (Competency & Credentialing Institute) · $475

The written knowledge exam most states use to place certified nursing assistants on the state nurse aide registry. Paired with a hands-on skills evaluation, it is the entry credential for CNA jobs in long-term care and hospitals.

NCSBN (administered by Credentia) · required to practice

The specialty certification for nurses providing direct care to acutely and critically ill adult patients (ICU, CCU, trauma). Widely recognized by hospitals for clinical-ladder advancement and ICU hiring.

AACN Certification Corporation · $370

The benchmark specialty certification for emergency department nurses. Validates expertise across the full span of emergency presentations and is favored by trauma centers for hiring and clinical-ladder advancement.

BCEN (Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing) · $380

The first exam in the US physician licensing sequence, testing whether students can apply foundational science concepts to the practice of medicine. Pass/fail since 2022, it remains a required gateway to clinical rotations and residency.

USMLE (NBME & FSMB) · $695 · required to practice

The standardized admission exam required by virtually every US and Canadian medical school. A seven-plus-hour test of science knowledge, reasoning, and critical analysis that is the single biggest gatekeeper to an MD or DO seat.

AAMC · $355 · required to practice

The clinical-knowledge exam in the US physician licensing sequence, testing the application of medical knowledge and patient-centered skills under supervised practice. Its three-digit score is a major factor in residency selection.

USMLE (NBME & FSMB) · $695 · required to practice

The most widely used nursing and allied-health program entrance exam in the US. A timed assessment of reading, math, science, and English that nursing schools use to screen applicants for admission.

Assessment Technologies Institute (ATI)

The most widely held medical coding credential in the US, certifying proficiency in assigning CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes for physician and outpatient services. The standard hiring requirement for professional-fee coding roles.

AAPC · $425

The single integrated board exam US dental students must pass for licensure, replacing the former NBDE Parts I and II. It blends foundation biomedical knowledge with clinical decision-making across the domain of general dentistry.

JCNDE (Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations), ADA · $890 · required to practice

The credentialing exam for radiographers (X-ray technologists), required for state licensure to perform diagnostic imaging in most states.

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) · $225 · required to practice

The standardized admission exam required by nearly every US dental school. A multiple-choice battery covering the natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading, and quantitative reasoning that is the primary gatekeeper to a DDS or DMD seat.

American Dental Association (ADA) · $580

The pharmacy law exam required for pharmacist licensure in most US states, assessing federal and state-specific statutes and regulations governing pharmacy practice. Taken alongside the NAPLEX as a licensure gateway.

NABP (National Association of Boards of Pharmacy) · $100 · required to practice

The licensure exam every pharmacist in the US must pass to practice. Tests whether a PharmD graduate can safely select, dispense, and manage drug therapy — the single national gateway to a pharmacist license.

NABP (National Association of Boards of Pharmacy) · $620 · required to practice

The certification for medical laboratory scientists who perform and interpret clinical lab tests; required for employment in most clinical laboratories.

ASCP Board of Certification · $250 · required to practice

The national certifying exam every physician assistant must pass to earn the PA-C credential, which all US states require for PA licensure. The single gateway between PA school and clinical practice.

NCCPA · $550 · required to practice

AHIMA's advanced credential for hospital inpatient and outpatient coders, validating mastery of ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT coding across complex facility records. A premium hiring signal for acute-care coding roles.

AHIMA · $299

The national certification exam for entry-level Emergency Medical Technicians. Most US states require NREMT certification for EMT licensure, making it the gateway to working on an ambulance.

NREMT · $104 · required to practice

The advanced national credential for respiratory therapists, earned by passing the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination at the high-cut score plus the Clinical Simulation Examination. Required or strongly preferred for most acute-care RT positions.

NBRC (National Board for Respiratory Care) · $190 · required to practice

The final exam in the USMLE sequence, assessing whether a physician can practice medicine unsupervised. Typically taken during or after intern year and required for an unrestricted US medical license.

FSMB / NBME (USMLE program) · $955 · required to practice

NHA's high-volume credential for clinical medical assistants who take vitals, assist with exams, perform phlebotomy and EKGs, and support patient flow. A common hiring requirement in physician offices and clinics.

NHA (National Healthcareer Association) · $165

The national board exam dental hygiene students must pass as a prerequisite for state dental hygiene licensure. It combines discipline-based questions with patient case-based items covering the full scope of dental hygiene practice.

JCNDE (Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations), ADA · $600 · required to practice

The standardized admission exam required by every US optometry school. A multiple-choice battery covering the natural sciences, reading, physics, and quantitative reasoning that gatekeeps entry to a Doctor of Optometry (OD) program.

Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO), administered by the ADA Department of Testing Services · $520

The national certification exam for pharmacy technicians. Most states require or strongly prefer PTCB certification to register and work as a pharmacy tech in retail and hospital pharmacies.

PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) · $129 · required to practice

AHIMA's flagship credential for health information management leaders who oversee data governance, privacy, analytics, and revenue integrity across healthcare organizations. A baccalaureate-level gateway into HIM management careers.

AHIMA · $229

The AAMA's nationally recognized medical assistant credential, earned by graduates of accredited programs and required by many employers and physician practices. Validates both clinical and administrative competency.

AAMA (American Association of Medical Assistants) · $125

The first of three licensure exams every osteopathic (DO) medical student must pass, testing foundational biomedical sciences and osteopathic principles. Pass/fail since 2022 and required to progress toward DO licensure.

NBOME · $745 · required to practice

AHIMA's associate-degree credential for health information technicians who ensure the quality, accuracy, and security of medical records and support the revenue cycle. A common entry requirement for HIM technician and coding roles.

AHIMA · $229

A national certification for phlebotomy technicians, validating competence in blood collection, specimen handling, safety, and patient interaction. Recognized by employers and used to demonstrate entry-level competence for phlebotomy roles.

American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) · $105 · required to practice

The most popular AWS certification, validating the ability to design secure, resilient, and cost-optimized architectures on AWS. A standard credential for cloud engineers, solutions architects, and developers moving into cloud roles.

Amazon Web Services · $150

The most widely held entry-level cybersecurity certification, taken by IT professionals moving into security roles. Frequently listed in job postings and accepted for US DoD 8140/8570 baseline requirements.

CompTIA · $439

The gold-standard certification for senior security practitioners and managers, covering eight domains from risk management to software security. Frequently required for security leadership and US DoD 8570/8140 roles.

ISC2 · $749

AWS's foundational certification for anyone who needs cloud fluency — sales, finance, project managers, and new technologists. Validates a high-level understanding of AWS services, security, and pricing without requiring hands-on depth.

Amazon Web Services · $100

AWS's professional-level architecture certification for experienced solutions architects designing complex, cost-optimized, and resilient systems on AWS. Carries a high wage premium for senior cloud roles.

Amazon Web Services · $300

Cisco's associate-level networking certification, the de facto baseline for network engineer and network administrator roles. One exam (200-301) covering networking fundamentals, IP connectivity, security, and automation.

Cisco · $330

The industry-standard entry credential for IT support and help desk roles, covering hardware, operating systems, networking basics, security, and troubleshooting. Earned by passing two exams: Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202).

CompTIA

Expert-level certification for solutions architects designing identity, governance, storage, compute, and business continuity solutions on Microsoft Azure. Carries a high wage premium for senior cloud roles.

Microsoft · $165

Management-focused information security certification for security managers, directors, and CISOs. Commonly required or preferred for security leadership roles and carries a strong wage premium.

ISACA · $575

AWS's specialty certification validating expertise in securing AWS workloads, covering threat detection, logging, infrastructure security, IAM, and data protection. Valued for cloud security engineer roles.

Amazon Web Services · $300

The leading certification for IT auditors, assurance, and control professionals. Frequently required or preferred for IT audit, risk, and compliance roles and carries a strong wage premium.

ISACA · $575

The vendor-neutral standard for foundational networking skills, taken by help desk technicians, network administrators, and IT generalists to validate they can configure, manage, and troubleshoot networks.

CompTIA · $399

Google Cloud's flagship professional architecture certification for designing, planning, and managing solutions on Google Cloud, including security, operations, and AI workloads. Carries a high wage premium for senior cloud roles.

Google Cloud · $200

Microsoft's entry-level cloud certification validating foundational knowledge of cloud concepts and Azure services. A common first credential for IT professionals, sales/business roles, and career switchers moving into cloud.

Microsoft · $99

The core exam for the Cisco CCNP Enterprise and CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certifications, covering enterprise networking infrastructure, virtualization, security, and automation. A high-value credential for network engineers.

Cisco · $400

An advanced cloud security certification from ISC2 for security professionals designing and managing secure cloud environments. Highly valued for cloud security architect and engineer roles.

ISC2 · $599

A hands-on, performance-based certification validating the ability to design, build, configure, and deploy cloud-native applications on Kubernetes. Highly valued for cloud-native developer and platform roles.

Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) · $445

A hands-on, performance-based certification validating core Red Hat Enterprise Linux administration skills. Widely required or preferred for Linux administrator and DevOps roles in enterprise environments.

Red Hat · $500

The core associate-level certification for professionals who implement, manage, and monitor Azure environments — identities, storage, compute, and virtual networks. A standard requirement in cloud administrator and sysadmin-to-cloud job postings.

Microsoft · $165

Associate-level certification for security engineers implementing identity, network, compute, and data protection on Microsoft Azure, including Microsoft Defender for Cloud and Sentinel. Valued for cloud security roles.

Microsoft · $165

A hands-on, performance-based certification validating the skills to secure container-based applications and Kubernetes platforms across build, deployment, and runtime. Requires a prior CKA pass and is highly valued for platform-security roles.

Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) · $445

Advanced, master-level cybersecurity certification (the successor to CASP+) for senior security engineers and architects, covering governance, architecture, engineering, and operations across enterprise environments. Aligned to US DoD 8140 requirements.

CompTIA · $509

The baseline Salesforce credential for admins who configure orgs, manage users, and automate business processes. A proven career-switch gateway into the Salesforce ecosystem with no degree requirement.

Salesforce · $200

Associate-level certification for cloud developers building, deploying, and maintaining applications and services on Microsoft Azure. Valued for Azure-focused software engineering roles.

Microsoft · $165

Intermediate offensive-security certification for penetration testers and vulnerability analysts, covering engagement management, reconnaissance, exploitation, and reporting. Aligned to US DoD 8140 requirements.

CompTIA · $392

The entry-level certification in the world's most widely adopted IT service management framework. Frequently required or preferred for service desk, IT operations, and IT management roles, especially in large enterprises and the public sector.

PeopleCert (Axelos)

A hands-on, performance-based certification proving you can operate production Kubernetes clusters. One of the most demanded credentials for DevOps, platform, and SRE roles.

CNCF / The Linux Foundation · $445

Scrum.org's rigorous, Scrum Guide-based assessment for Scrum Masters and agile practitioners. Widely recognized for project, delivery, and team-lead roles, with a lifetime credential and no renewal fees.

Scrum.org · $200

A widely recognized ethical hacking certification covering reconnaissance, system hacking, and attack techniques across networks, web apps, cloud, and IoT. Accepted for US DoD 8140/8570 baseline requirements.

EC-Council

Vendor-neutral certification validating the ability to manage, secure, automate, and troubleshoot Linux systems in cloud and hybrid environments. Common for Linux administrators, DevOps, and cloud engineers.

CompTIA · $338

Google Cloud's entry certification for engineers who deploy, monitor, and operate workloads on Google Cloud. The standard first credential for GCP-focused cloud and DevOps roles.

Google Cloud · $125

AWS's associate-level certification for software developers who build, deploy, and debug cloud applications on AWS. A common resume gate for backend and cloud-native developer roles.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) · $150

Vendor-neutral certification for cloud engineers and administrators covering deployment, security, operations, and troubleshooting across multi-cloud and hybrid environments. Aligned to US DoD 8140 baseline requirements.

CompTIA · $338

AWS's foundational certification for AI and generative AI literacy: core ML/AI concepts, generative AI fundamentals, applying foundation models, responsible AI, and AI security and governance. Aimed at practitioners who use AI rather than build models from scratch.

Amazon Web Services · $100

An intermediate cybersecurity certification focused on the blue-team analyst role: detecting, analyzing, and responding to threats. A common step after Security+ and listed on US DoD 8570/8140 approved baselines.

CompTIA · $439

HashiCorp's foundational certification for practitioners who use Terraform to provision infrastructure as code. A common screening credential for DevOps, platform, and cloud engineering roles.

HashiCorp · $70

Microsoft's foundational certification for AI and machine learning concepts on Azure, including computer vision, natural language processing, and generative AI workloads. Aimed at technical and non-technical candidates building AI literacy.

Microsoft · $99

Microsoft's foundational certification covering core data concepts, relational and non-relational data on Azure, and analytics workloads. A common entry point for data roles in Azure-centric organizations and a stepping stone toward Azure data associate certifications.

Microsoft · $99

Vendor-neutral certification for server administrators covering hardware, administration, security, disaster recovery, and troubleshooting across on-premises, virtual, and cloud environments.

CompTIA · $369

A fundamentals-level certification covering security, compliance, and identity concepts and Microsoft solutions. A common entry point for IT professionals moving toward Microsoft security and compliance roles.

Microsoft · $99

The most popular AWS certification, validating the ability to design secure, resilient, and cost-optimized architectures on AWS. A standard credential for cloud engineers, solutions architects, and developers moving into cloud roles.

Amazon Web Services · $150

AWS's professional-level architecture certification for experienced solutions architects designing complex, cost-optimized, and resilient systems on AWS. Carries a high wage premium for senior cloud roles.

Amazon Web Services · $300

A hands-on, performance-based certification validating the ability to design, build, configure, and deploy cloud-native applications on Kubernetes. Highly valued for cloud-native developer and platform roles.

Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) · $445

A college-level introductory programming course taught in Java, covering object-oriented design, data structures, and algorithms. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit and place students out of an introductory CS course.

College Board · $99

Associate-level certification for cloud developers building, deploying, and maintaining applications and services on Microsoft Azure. Valued for Azure-focused software engineering roles.

Microsoft · $165

A hands-on, performance-based certification proving you can operate production Kubernetes clusters. One of the most demanded credentials for DevOps, platform, and SRE roles.

CNCF / The Linux Foundation · $445

Google Cloud's entry certification for engineers who deploy, monitor, and operate workloads on Google Cloud. The standard first credential for GCP-focused cloud and DevOps roles.

Google Cloud · $125

AWS's associate-level certification for software developers who build, deploy, and debug cloud applications on AWS. A common resume gate for backend and cloud-native developer roles.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) · $150

HashiCorp's foundational certification for practitioners who use Terraform to provision infrastructure as code. A common screening credential for DevOps, platform, and cloud engineering roles.

HashiCorp · $70

Microsoft certification for analysts who model, visualize and analyze data with Power BI; a top-demand data analytics credential.

Microsoft · $165

Validates the ability to build and operate data pipelines on AWS: ingestion and transformation, data store selection and modeling, pipeline operations, and data security and governance. A common ask for data engineering roles in AWS-centric shops.

Amazon Web Services · $150

AWS's specialty certification for data scientists and ML engineers who build, train, tune, and deploy machine learning models on AWS. RETIRED: the last day to take MLS-C01 was March 31, 2026; AWS directs candidates to the Machine Learning Engineer – Associate (MLA-C01) instead. Existing certifications remain valid for 3 years from the date earned.

Amazon Web Services · $300

AWS's foundational certification for AI and generative AI literacy: core ML/AI concepts, generative AI fundamentals, applying foundation models, responsible AI, and AI security and governance. Aimed at practitioners who use AI rather than build models from scratch.

Amazon Web Services · $100

Databricks' entry certification for data engineers who build ELT pipelines on the lakehouse with Spark SQL, Python, and Delta Lake. Increasingly requested for data engineering roles in Databricks shops.

Databricks · $200

Associate-level certification for analytics engineers building solutions on Microsoft Fabric: lakehouses, warehouses, and semantic models, with querying via SQL, KQL, and DAX. Increasingly requested as organizations adopt Microsoft Fabric for unified analytics.

Microsoft · $165

Google's beginner-friendly professional certificate that teaches the full data analysis process: asking questions, preparing and cleaning data, analyzing, and visualizing, using spreadsheets, SQL, Python, and Tableau. A popular career-switch gateway into entry-level data analyst roles.

Google (via Coursera)

Tableau's entry-level certification covering connecting to and preparing data, exploring and analyzing it, sharing insights, and core Tableau concepts. A widely recognized credential for data analyst and business intelligence roles.

Salesforce (Tableau) · $100

Microsoft's foundational certification for AI and machine learning concepts on Azure, including computer vision, natural language processing, and generative AI workloads. Aimed at technical and non-technical candidates building AI literacy.

Microsoft · $99

Microsoft's foundational certification covering core data concepts, relational and non-relational data on Azure, and analytics workloads. A common entry point for data roles in Azure-centric organizations and a stepping stone toward Azure data associate certifications.

Microsoft · $99

Snowflake's foundational certification covering its architecture, security, performance, and data movement. The prerequisite for all SnowPro Advanced tracks and a common ask for analytics and data engineering roles on Snowflake.

Snowflake · $175

The licensure exam for Certified Public Accountants in the US — required to sign audit opinions and use the CPA title. Four sections: three Core (AUD, FAR, REG) plus one candidate-chosen Discipline.

AICPA / NASBA · required to practice

The first of three exams toward the CFA charter, the most recognized credential in investment management. Level I tests a broad foundation across ethics, financial analysis, asset classes, and portfolio management.

CFA Institute · $1490

The second of three exams toward the CFA charter. Level II emphasizes asset valuation and the application of investment tools, using item-set (vignette) questions to test analysis across the same ten topic areas as Level I.

CFA Institute · $1490

The qualification exam to register as a General Securities Representative — required to solicit and trade nearly the full range of securities products for customers of a FINRA member firm.

FINRA · $395 · required to practice

The final exam toward the CFA charter. Level III focuses on portfolio management and wealth planning, combining a common core with a candidate-selected specialized pathway (Portfolio Management, Private Markets, or Private Wealth) and testing through both item sets and constructed-response (essay) questions.

CFA Institute · $1590

FINRA's entry-level securities exam, open to anyone 18 or older without firm sponsorship. Passing the SIE is the first step toward registered representative roles and is a corequisite for top-off exams like the Series 7.

FINRA · $100 · required to practice

The capstone exam for the CFP mark, the leading credential for personal financial planners in the US. Tests the ability to apply planning knowledge across insurance, investments, tax, retirement, and estate planning.

CFP Board · $925

The first preliminary actuarial exam, a gateway to the actuarial profession. Exam P develops knowledge of the fundamental probability tools used to quantitatively assess risk, and is jointly sponsored by the SOA and the Casualty Actuarial Society.

Society of Actuaries (SOA) · $275

The second preliminary actuarial exam, building the financial mathematics toolkit used in reserving, pricing, valuation, and asset/liability management. Exam FM is jointly sponsored by the SOA and the Casualty Actuarial Society and is a core gateway to the actuarial profession.

Society of Actuaries (SOA) · $275

A globally recognized credential for accountants and financial professionals in business, focused on management accounting and corporate finance. The CMA is earned by passing a two-part exam covering financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics.

IMA (Institute of Management Accountants) · $545

The securities license required to work as an investment banking representative, covering advising on or facilitating debt and equity offerings and mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings. Together with the SIE exam, it is required to register in this role.

FINRA · $395 · required to practice

The state-law exam most states require before a broker-dealer agent can sell securities to their residents. Written by NASAA, administered by FINRA, and typically taken alongside the SIE and Series 7.

NASAA · $147 · required to practice

The most widely recognized anti-money laundering certification, the global benchmark for AML and financial crime compliance professionals. The CAMS exam tests knowledge of money laundering risks, compliance program design, and investigation processes.

ACAMS

The exam most states require to register as an investment adviser representative (IAR). Written by NASAA and administered by FINRA, it is the standalone path to giving paid investment advice without a Series 7.

NASAA · $187 · required to practice

The only globally recognized certification for internal auditors and the leading standard of competence in the profession. The CIA is earned by passing a three-part exam aligned with the Global Internal Audit Standards. The blueprint below details Part 1, Essentials of Internal Auditing.

The IIA (Institute of Internal Auditors)

The first of two exams toward the FRM designation, the leading global credential for financial risk managers. Part I covers the tools of risk measurement: quantitative analysis, markets and products, and valuation models.

GARP · $800

The combined state-law exam that qualifies a candidate as both a securities agent and an investment adviser representative. Written by NASAA and only effective when paired with a passed Series 7.

NASAA · $177 · required to practice

The first of two exams toward the CAIA charter, the leading credential for alternative investment professionals. Level I builds the foundational tools and concepts across alternative asset classes, from real assets and private equity to hedge funds and digital assets.

CAIA Association · $1395

The three-part exam that earns the Enrolled Agent credential — the highest credential the IRS awards — granting unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS without being a CPA or attorney.

IRS · $317 · required to practice

A principal-level securities license that qualifies a person to supervise and manage branch activities, including securities trading, underwriting, and customer-related functions at a broker-dealer. It is a key credential for those moving into supervisory roles.

FINRA · $235 · required to practice

A securities license that qualifies a representative to sell packaged investment products such as mutual funds and variable annuities and insurance. Together with the SIE exam, it is required to register in this representative role.

FINRA · $100 · required to practice

The licensure exam for Certified Public Accountants in the US — required to sign audit opinions and use the CPA title. Four sections: three Core (AUD, FAR, REG) plus one candidate-chosen Discipline.

AICPA / NASBA · required to practice

The standardized bar examination required to practice law in most U.S. jurisdictions, producing a portable score accepted across UBE states. It combines three NCBE components — the Multistate Bar Examination, Multistate Essay Examination, and Multistate Performance Test.

NCBE · required to practice

The first of three exams toward the CFA charter, the most recognized credential in investment management. Level I tests a broad foundation across ethics, financial analysis, asset classes, and portfolio management.

CFA Institute · $1490

The most widely held entry-level cybersecurity certification, taken by IT professionals moving into security roles. Frequently listed in job postings and accepted for US DoD 8140/8570 baseline requirements.

CompTIA · $439

The multiple-choice core of the U.S. bar exam, used by nearly every jurisdiction and weighted 50% of the Uniform Bar Examination total. It tests fundamental legal principles and reasoning across seven subjects.

NCBE · required to practice

The gold-standard certification for senior security practitioners and managers, covering eight domains from risk management to software security. Frequently required for security leadership and US DoD 8570/8140 roles.

ISC2 · $749

PMI's flagship certification for experienced project managers, widely requested in job postings across industries. Validates ability to lead people, manage process, and tie projects to business outcomes.

PMI · $405

One of two national board exams that license family nurse practitioners to practice across the lifespan. Passing confers the NP-C credential and is a prerequisite for state APRN licensure and prescriptive authority.

AANPCB (American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board) · $315 · required to practice

The aptitude battery used to qualify and classify applicants for all branches of the US military. Four of its subtests form the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) that determines enlistment eligibility, and the full battery sets which military jobs an applicant can hold.

US Department of Defense · $0 · required to practice

AWS's foundational certification for anyone who needs cloud fluency — sales, finance, project managers, and new technologists. Validates a high-level understanding of AWS services, security, and pricing without requiring hands-on depth.

Amazon Web Services · $100

AWS's professional-level architecture certification for experienced solutions architects designing complex, cost-optimized, and resilient systems on AWS. Carries a high wage premium for senior cloud roles.

Amazon Web Services · $300

The admission test required or accepted by every ABA-accredited law school, testing logical reasoning and reading comprehension. Scores drive both admission odds and scholarship offers, making it the highest-leverage exam in legal careers.

LSAC · $253 · required to practice

NCBE's redesigned bar exam, launching July 2026 and replacing the legacy UBE in adopting jurisdictions. It integrates foundational legal concepts with foundational lawyering skills, testing knowledge and skills together rather than as separate components.

NCBE · required to practice

The most widely accepted graduate-school admissions test, used by master's, PhD, and many business and law programs worldwide. Shortened to under two hours in September 2023.

ETS · $220

The ANCC's board certification for family nurse practitioners, conferring the FNP-BC credential required for APRN licensure and prescriptive authority. Organized around the nursing process across the lifespan.

ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) · $395 · required to practice

Expert-level certification for solutions architects designing identity, governance, storage, compute, and business continuity solutions on Microsoft Azure. Carries a high wage premium for senior cloud roles.

Microsoft · $165

The second of three exams toward the CFA charter. Level II emphasizes asset valuation and the application of investment tools, using item-set (vignette) questions to test analysis across the same ten topic areas as Level I.

CFA Institute · $1490

Management-focused information security certification for security managers, directors, and CISOs. Commonly required or preferred for security leadership roles and carries a strong wage premium.

ISACA · $575

The most widely held medical coding credential in the US, certifying proficiency in assigning CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes for physician and outpatient services. The standard hiring requirement for professional-fee coding roles.

AAPC · $425

The NCBE ethics exam required for bar admission in nearly all U.S. jurisdictions. It measures knowledge of the standards governing lawyers' professional conduct, based largely on the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct and Model Code of Judicial Conduct.

NCBE · $160 · required to practice

AWS's specialty certification validating expertise in securing AWS workloads, covering threat detection, logging, infrastructure security, IAM, and data protection. Valued for cloud security engineer roles.

Amazon Web Services · $300

The final exam toward the CFA charter. Level III focuses on portfolio management and wealth planning, combining a common core with a candidate-selected specialized pathway (Portfolio Management, Private Markets, or Private Wealth) and testing through both item sets and constructed-response (essay) questions.

CFA Institute · $1590

The leading certification for IT auditors, assurance, and control professionals. Frequently required or preferred for IT audit, risk, and compliance roles and carries a strong wage premium.

ISACA · $575

The standard admissions exam for MBA and business master's programs worldwide. The current GMAT (launched as the Focus Edition, renamed simply GMAT in 2024) is shorter than the legacy exam, with three equally timed sections and a 205–805 score scale.

GMAC · $275

Google Cloud's flagship professional architecture certification for designing, planning, and managing solutions on Google Cloud, including security, operations, and AI workloads. Carries a high wage premium for senior cloud roles.

Google Cloud · $200

The single integrated board exam US dental students must pass for licensure, replacing the former NBDE Parts I and II. It blends foundation biomedical knowledge with clinical decision-making across the domain of general dentistry.

JCNDE (Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations), ADA · $890 · required to practice

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office registration exam — the licensure gateway to practice as a patent agent or patent attorney before the USPTO. It tests patent law, rules, and procedure as set out in the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP).

USPTO · $480 · required to practice

The core exam for the Cisco CCNP Enterprise and CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certifications, covering enterprise networking infrastructure, virtualization, security, and automation. A high-value credential for network engineers.

Cisco · $400

An advanced cloud security certification from ISC2 for security professionals designing and managing secure cloud environments. Highly valued for cloud security architect and engineer roles.

ISC2 · $599

The capstone exam for the CFP mark, the leading credential for personal financial planners in the US. Tests the ability to apply planning knowledge across insurance, investments, tax, retirement, and estate planning.

CFP Board · $925

A hands-on, performance-based certification validating the ability to design, build, configure, and deploy cloud-native applications on Kubernetes. Highly valued for cloud-native developer and platform roles.

Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) · $445

Scrum Alliance's foundational Scrum Master credential, earned after instructor-led training, and one of the most widely recognized agile certifications in job postings. Validates understanding of Scrum theory, roles, events and artifacts.

Scrum Alliance

The pharmacy law exam required for pharmacist licensure in most US states, assessing federal and state-specific statutes and regulations governing pharmacy practice. Taken alongside the NAPLEX as a licensure gateway.

NABP (National Association of Boards of Pharmacy) · $100 · required to practice

A hands-on, performance-based certification validating core Red Hat Enterprise Linux administration skills. Widely required or preferred for Linux administrator and DevOps roles in enterprise environments.

Red Hat · $500

SHRM's certification for early-to-mid-career HR professionals who implement policies and serve as the point of contact for staff and stakeholders. Built on the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge (BASK), testing both HR knowledge and behavioral competencies.

SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) · $450

ASQ's advanced process improvement credential for professionals who lead complex Six Sigma projects and mentor Green Belts. Validates deep command of DMAIC, advanced statistics, team leadership and Design for Six Sigma.

ASQ (American Society for Quality) · $585

Associate-level certification for security engineers implementing identity, network, compute, and data protection on Microsoft Azure, including Microsoft Defender for Cloud and Sentinel. Valued for cloud security roles.

Microsoft · $165

A hands-on, performance-based certification validating the skills to secure container-based applications and Kubernetes platforms across build, deployment, and runtime. Requires a prior CKA pass and is highly valued for platform-security roles.

Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) · $445

Advanced, master-level cybersecurity certification (the successor to CASP+) for senior security engineers and architects, covering governance, architecture, engineering, and operations across enterprise environments. Aligned to US DoD 8140 requirements.

CompTIA · $509

Scaled Agile's leadership certification earned through the Leading SAFe course, aimed at leaders driving Lean-Agile transformation across enterprises. Validates understanding of the Scaled Agile Framework, Lean-Agile leadership, and aligning strategy to execution.

Scaled Agile, Inc.

The baseline Salesforce credential for admins who configure orgs, manage users, and automate business processes. A proven career-switch gateway into the Salesforce ecosystem with no degree requirement.

Salesforce · $200

Associate-level certification for cloud developers building, deploying, and maintaining applications and services on Microsoft Azure. Valued for Azure-focused software engineering roles.

Microsoft · $165

IIBA's senior business analysis credential for experienced practitioners, mapped to the six knowledge areas of the BABOK Guide. Validates the ability to define needs and recommend solutions that deliver value to stakeholders.

IIBA (International Institute of Business Analysis) · $505

AHIMA's advanced credential for hospital inpatient and outpatient coders, validating mastery of ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT coding across complex facility records. A premium hiring signal for acute-care coding roles.

AHIMA · $299

Intermediate offensive-security certification for penetration testers and vulnerability analysts, covering engagement management, reconnaissance, exploitation, and reporting. Aligned to US DoD 8140 requirements.

CompTIA · $392

The entry-level certification in the world's most widely adopted IT service management framework. Frequently required or preferred for service desk, IT operations, and IT management roles, especially in large enterprises and the public sector.

PeopleCert (Axelos)

The national certification exam for entry-level Emergency Medical Technicians. Most US states require NREMT certification for EMT licensure, making it the gateway to working on an ambulance.

NREMT · $104 · required to practice

The professional licensure exam for civil engineers, taken after the FE and qualifying work experience. Examinees choose one of five practice modules (Construction, Geotechnical, Structural, Transportation, or Water Resources and Environmental); this blueprint follows the Construction module.

NCEES · $375 · required to practice

The professional licensure exam for electrical engineers practicing in power, taken after the FE and qualifying work experience. It is the Power module of the PE Electrical and Computer exam.

NCEES · $375 · required to practice

PMI's agile credential spanning Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP and other approaches rather than a single framework. Validates real agile experience for practitioners who lead or work on agile teams.

PMI · $435

The advanced national credential for respiratory therapists, earned by passing the Therapist Multiple-Choice (TMC) Examination at the high-cut score plus the Clinical Simulation Examination. Required or strongly preferred for most acute-care RT positions.

NBRC (National Board for Respiratory Care) · $190 · required to practice

The first preliminary actuarial exam, a gateway to the actuarial profession. Exam P develops knowledge of the fundamental probability tools used to quantitatively assess risk, and is jointly sponsored by the SOA and the Casualty Actuarial Society.

Society of Actuaries (SOA) · $275

The professional licensure exam for mechanical engineers, taken after the FE and qualifying work experience. Examinees choose one of three modules (HVAC and Refrigeration, Machine Design and Materials, or Thermal and Fluid Systems); this blueprint follows the HVAC and Refrigeration module.

NCEES · $375 · required to practice

Scrum.org's rigorous, Scrum Guide-based assessment for Scrum Masters and agile practitioners. Widely recognized for project, delivery, and team-lead roles, with a lifetime credential and no renewal fees.

Scrum.org · $200

ASQ's mid-level process improvement credential for professionals who support or lead smaller Six Sigma projects within a function. Validates command of the DMAIC methodology and statistical problem-solving tools.

ASQ (American Society for Quality) · $483

The second preliminary actuarial exam, building the financial mathematics toolkit used in reserving, pricing, valuation, and asset/liability management. Exam FM is jointly sponsored by the SOA and the Casualty Actuarial Society and is a core gateway to the actuarial profession.

Society of Actuaries (SOA) · $275

The multi-division licensing examination required to become a licensed architect in the United States. Candidates must pass all six divisions, each covering a phase of architectural practice essential to protecting public health, safety, and welfare.

NCARB · required to practice

The licensing exam most US states require for the clinical-level social work license (LCSW and equivalents), which authorizes independent clinical practice including diagnosis and psychotherapy. Administered by the Association of Social Work Boards on behalf of state and provincial boards.

ASWB · $260 · required to practice

The national board certification required to practice as a behavior analyst, most commonly delivering applied behavior analysis (ABA) services for autism and developmental disabilities. State licensure and most payor/employer requirements are built on holding the BCBA credential.

BACB · $245 · required to practice

PMI's entry-level project management credential for those starting out or supporting projects, with no formal experience requirement. Validates fundamentals across predictive, agile, and business analysis approaches and serves as a stepping stone toward the PMP.

PMI · $225

NHA's high-volume credential for clinical medical assistants who take vitals, assist with exams, perform phlebotomy and EKGs, and support patient flow. A common hiring requirement in physician offices and clinics.

NHA (National Healthcareer Association) · $165

A widely recognized ethical hacking certification covering reconnaissance, system hacking, and attack techniques across networks, web apps, cloud, and IoT. Accepted for US DoD 8140/8570 baseline requirements.

EC-Council

A globally recognized credential for accountants and financial professionals in business, focused on management accounting and corporate finance. The CMA is earned by passing a two-part exam covering financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics.

IMA (Institute of Management Accountants) · $545

Vendor-neutral certification validating the ability to manage, secure, automate, and troubleshoot Linux systems in cloud and hybrid environments. Common for Linux administrators, DevOps, and cloud engineers.

CompTIA · $338

The securities license required to work as an investment banking representative, covering advising on or facilitating debt and equity offerings and mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings. Together with the SIE exam, it is required to register in this role.

FINRA · $395 · required to practice

The national board exam dental hygiene students must pass as a prerequisite for state dental hygiene licensure. It combines discipline-based questions with patient case-based items covering the full scope of dental hygiene practice.

JCNDE (Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations), ADA · $600 · required to practice

HRCI's credential for HR practitioners focused on operational and technical aspects of HR management and U.S. employment law. Widely recognized for mid-level HR roles and emphasizes program implementation over strategy.

HRCI (HR Certification Institute) · $395

The national certification exam for pharmacy technicians. Most states require or strongly prefer PTCB certification to register and work as a pharmacy tech in retail and hospital pharmacies.

PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board) · $129 · required to practice

AHIMA's flagship credential for health information management leaders who oversee data governance, privacy, analytics, and revenue integrity across healthcare organizations. A baccalaureate-level gateway into HIM management careers.

AHIMA · $229

The most widely recognized anti-money laundering certification, the global benchmark for AML and financial crime compliance professionals. The CAMS exam tests knowledge of money laundering risks, compliance program design, and investigation processes.

ACAMS

The AAMA's nationally recognized medical assistant credential, earned by graduates of accredited programs and required by many employers and physician practices. Validates both clinical and administrative competency.

AAMA (American Association of Medical Assistants) · $125

Vendor-neutral certification for cloud engineers and administrators covering deployment, security, operations, and troubleshooting across multi-cloud and hybrid environments. Aligned to US DoD 8140 baseline requirements.

CompTIA · $338

The national licensure exam for psychologists in the US and Canada. Required by every state and provincial licensing board, it stands between a doctoral degree in psychology and independent practice.

ASPPB · $600 · required to practice

AACN's specialty certification for nurses caring for acutely ill adult progressive- and intermediate-care patients. A recognized wage-premium credential built on the AACN Synergy Model.

AACN Certification Corporation · $255

The basic-skills battery in reading, writing, and math that many US states and teacher-preparation programs require for entry into educator licensure pathways. Often the first gate on the road to a teaching credential.

ETS · $90 · required to practice

The entry-level certification in the PRINCE2 structured project management method, widely required for project roles in the UK, Europe and Commonwealth markets. Validates understanding of PRINCE2's principles, practices and processes.

PeopleCert (on behalf of AXELOS)

The only globally recognized certification for internal auditors and the leading standard of competence in the profession. The CIA is earned by passing a three-part exam aligned with the Global Internal Audit Standards. The blueprint below details Part 1, Essentials of Internal Auditing.

The IIA (Institute of Internal Auditors)

The gold-standard specialty credential for perioperative (operating room) registered nurses, validating competency across the surgical continuum. A widely recognized wage-premium certification for OR roles.

CCI (Competency & Credentialing Institute) · $475

The first of two exams toward the FRM designation, the leading global credential for financial risk managers. Part I covers the tools of risk measurement: quantitative analysis, markets and products, and valuation models.

GARP · $800

A case-study-based licensing exam used by most US states for clinical mental health counselor licensure (LPC/LCMHC and equivalents) and for NBCC's CCMHC certification. It tests applied clinical judgment through simulated client cases rather than standalone knowledge items.

NBCC · $275 · required to practice

The licensing exam an experienced real estate salesperson must pass to become a broker, who can own a brokerage and supervise agents. Includes a national/general portion plus a state-law portion, and is administered through vendors such as Pearson VUE or PSI.

State real estate commissions (national portion via Pearson VUE or PSI) · required to practice

AHIMA's associate-degree credential for health information technicians who ensure the quality, accuracy, and security of medical records and support the revenue cycle. A common entry requirement for HIM technician and coding roles.

AHIMA · $229

The ETS Praxis subject test required for school psychologist credentialing in most states and for the NASP Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) designation. It gates entry into practice in K-12 schools.

ETS · $156 · required to practice

The first of two exams toward the CAIA charter, the leading credential for alternative investment professionals. Level I builds the foundational tools and concepts across alternative asset classes, from real assets and private equity to hedge funds and digital assets.

CAIA Association · $1395

The three-part exam that earns the Enrolled Agent credential — the highest credential the IRS awards — granting unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS without being a CPA or attorney.

IRS · $317 · required to practice

A principal-level securities license that qualifies a person to supervise and manage branch activities, including securities trading, underwriting, and customer-related functions at a broker-dealer. It is a key credential for those moving into supervisory roles.

FINRA · $235 · required to practice

The counselor licensure and certification exam used by most US state boards and for the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential. The standard gateway from a counseling master's degree to licensed practice.

NBCC · $275 · required to practice

A securities license that qualifies a representative to sell packaged investment products such as mutual funds and variable annuities and insurance. Together with the SIE exam, it is required to register in this representative role.

FINRA · $100 · required to practice

The state licensing exam required to sell life and health insurance products as an insurance producer. Includes national/general insurance content plus a state-law portion, and is administered through vendors such as Pearson VUE or PSI.

State departments of insurance (exams via Pearson VUE or PSI; licensing through NIPR) · required to practice

The state licensing exam required to sell property and casualty insurance products as an insurance producer. Includes national/general insurance content plus a state-law portion, and is administered through vendors such as Pearson VUE or PSI.

State departments of insurance (exams via Pearson VUE or PSI; licensing through NIPR) · required to practice

Vendor-neutral certification for server administrators covering hardware, administration, security, disaster recovery, and troubleshooting across on-premises, virtual, and cloud environments.

CompTIA · $369

A fundamentals-level certification covering security, compliance, and identity concepts and Microsoft solutions. A common entry point for IT professionals moving toward Microsoft security and compliance roles.

Microsoft · $99

The standardized bar examination required to practice law in most U.S. jurisdictions, producing a portable score accepted across UBE states. It combines three NCBE components — the Multistate Bar Examination, Multistate Essay Examination, and Multistate Performance Test.

NCBE · required to practice

The multiple-choice core of the U.S. bar exam, used by nearly every jurisdiction and weighted 50% of the Uniform Bar Examination total. It tests fundamental legal principles and reasoning across seven subjects.

NCBE · required to practice

NCBE's redesigned bar exam, launching July 2026 and replacing the legacy UBE in adopting jurisdictions. It integrates foundational legal concepts with foundational lawyering skills, testing knowledge and skills together rather than as separate components.

NCBE · required to practice

The NCBE ethics exam required for bar admission in nearly all U.S. jurisdictions. It measures knowledge of the standards governing lawyers' professional conduct, based largely on the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct and Model Code of Judicial Conduct.

NCBE · $160 · required to practice

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office registration exam — the licensure gateway to practice as a patent agent or patent attorney before the USPTO. It tests patent law, rules, and procedure as set out in the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure (MPEP).

USPTO · $480 · required to practice

The discipline-specific FE exam for civil engineers, usually taken near graduation. Passing the FE is the required first step toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in the United States.

NCEES · $175 · required to practice

The discipline-specific FE exam for mechanical engineers, typically taken near graduation. Passing the FE is the first step toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in the United States.

NCEES · $175 · required to practice

The discipline-specific FE exam for electrical and computer engineers, usually taken near graduation. Passing the FE is the required first step toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure in the United States.

NCEES · $175 · required to practice

The professional licensure exam for civil engineers, taken after the FE and qualifying work experience. Examinees choose one of five practice modules (Construction, Geotechnical, Structural, Transportation, or Water Resources and Environmental); this blueprint follows the Construction module.

NCEES · $375 · required to practice

The professional licensure exam for electrical engineers practicing in power, taken after the FE and qualifying work experience. It is the Power module of the PE Electrical and Computer exam.

NCEES · $375 · required to practice

The professional licensure exam for mechanical engineers, taken after the FE and qualifying work experience. Examinees choose one of three modules (HVAC and Refrigeration, Machine Design and Materials, or Thermal and Fluid Systems); this blueprint follows the HVAC and Refrigeration module.

NCEES · $375 · required to practice

The multi-division licensing examination required to become a licensed architect in the United States. Candidates must pass all six divisions, each covering a phase of architectural practice essential to protecting public health, safety, and welfare.

NCARB · required to practice

The knowledge test battery required to earn a commercial learner's permit and Class A CDL — the license needed to drive tractor-trailers and other combination vehicles. Administered by state licensing agencies under federal FMCSA standards.

FMCSA / State Driver Licensing Agencies · required to practice

The industry-standard certification for automotive technicians. The eight A-series exams cover all major vehicle systems; passing all eight earns Master Automobile Technician status.

National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) · $47

The most widely recognized food protection manager certification in the US. Most state and local health codes require at least one certified food protection manager per food-service establishment, making it a de facto requirement for kitchen and restaurant managers.

National Restaurant Association · required to practice

The state licensing exam an apprentice electrician must pass to work independently as a journeyman. Administered per state (often through PSI or Prometric) and based on the National Electrical Code (NEC).

State licensing boards (NEC-based) · required to practice

The premier certification for welding inspectors in the United States, validating the ability to inspect welds, interpret codes, and verify weld quality. Required or strongly preferred for inspection roles in construction, fabrication, pipeline, and structural work.

American Welding Society (AWS) · $1255

Required to fly small drones commercially in the US. The Aeronautical Knowledge Test covers airspace, regulations, weather, and safe operations.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) · $175 · required to practice

The state licensing exam an apprentice plumber must pass to work independently as a journeyman. Administered per state (often through PSI) and based on the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) or International Plumbing Code (IPC), depending on the state's adopted code.

State licensing boards (UPC/IPC-based) · required to practice

The state licensing exam a journeyman electrician must pass to become a master electrician, authorized to pull permits, design installations, and supervise other electricians. Administered per state (often through PSI or Prometric) and based on the National Electrical Code (NEC).

State licensing boards (NEC-based) · required to practice

The federally required certification for any technician who maintains, services, repairs, or disposes of equipment containing regulated refrigerants. Every HVAC/R technician in the US must hold the appropriate Type to legally handle refrigerants.

US Environmental Protection Agency · required to practice

The 30-hour OSHA Outreach safety course for the construction industry, intended for workers with safety responsibility such as supervisors and foremen. Completion earns an OSHA Department of Labor card that many employers, contracts, and jurisdictions require for construction work.

U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Outreach Training Program · required to practice

The leading industry certification for HVAC/R technicians in North America, validating real-world knowledge of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Widely required or preferred by HVAC employers and recognized in manufacturer and utility programs.

North American Technician Excellence (NATE) · $136

The standardized examination used by most states to license or certify home inspectors. Developed and governed by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors, it tests inspection methods, building systems, and professional practices.

Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors (EBPHI) · $225 · required to practice

The national written (theory) examination used by most US state boards as part of cosmetology licensure. Passing it — alongside the practical exam and state requirements — is required to work as a licensed cosmetologist.

National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) · required to practice

The certification exam required to apply restricted-use pesticides as a private or commercial applicator. The core exam follows EPA federal standards and the National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual; states administer the core plus category-specific exams.

State lead agencies under EPA federal certification standards (40 CFR Part 171) · required to practice

The state licensing exam a barber must pass to work professionally, covering both written theory and a hands-on practical. National exams are developed by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) and delivered through vendors such as PSI.

State barber/cosmetology boards (national exams via NIC / PSI) · required to practice

The standard college-admissions test taken by US high-school students. Fully digital and section-adaptive since 2024, it scores Reading & Writing and Math on a combined 400–1600 scale used in admissions and scholarship decisions.

College Board · $68

The college admissions test taken by over a million US high-school students each year. Scores on a 1–36 composite scale feed admissions and scholarship decisions at most US colleges.

ACT, Inc. · $70

The most widely accepted graduate-school admissions test, used by master's, PhD, and many business and law programs worldwide. Shortened to under two hours in September 2023.

ETS · $220

The College Board's first-semester-college-calculus exam for high-school students. A score of 3+ earns college credit or placement at most US universities, making it a standard accelerator for STEM-bound students.

College Board · $99

The high-school equivalency credential. Passing all four subject tests certifies high-school-level academic skills for jobs and college admission.

GED Testing Service (Pearson VUE) · $80

The end-of-course exam for the College Board's AP Biology course. A score of 3 or higher commonly earns college credit or placement, saving tuition and accelerating STEM degree paths.

College Board · $99

A college-level course in rhetoric and argument that develops evidence-based analytic and persuasive writing through the study of nonfiction texts. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit, often for first-year composition.

College Board · $99

The end-of-course exam for one of the most popular AP courses in the US. A score of 3 or higher commonly earns introductory psychology credit at college, and the course is a frequent gateway into behavioral-science majors.

College Board · $99

A college-level US history survey from 1491 to the present. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit and strengthen admissions, making the course a common gateway to advanced standing.

College Board · $99

A college-level introductory chemistry course covering atomic structure, bonding, reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit and place students out of introductory chemistry.

College Board · $99

A college-level introductory course in the principles that apply to an economic system as a whole, including national income, inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, and international trade. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit.

College Board · $99

A college-level, algebra-based introductory physics course covering mechanics, rotation, oscillations, and fluids. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit and place students out of introductory physics.

College Board · $99

The end-of-course exam for the College Board's AP Statistics course, equivalent to a one-semester introductory college statistics class. A score of 3 or higher commonly earns college credit and is a strong foundation for data-oriented majors.

College Board · $99

A college-level introduction to the constitutional underpinnings, institutions, and political behavior of the US government. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit and strengthen admissions.

College Board · $99

A college-level global history survey from c. 1200 CE to the present. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit and strengthen admissions, making the course a common gateway to advanced standing.

College Board · $99

A college-level introductory course in the principles that apply to the functions of individual decision-makers, both consumers and producers, within an economic system. A strong AP exam score can earn college credit.

College Board · $99

The standard college-admissions test taken by US high-school students. Fully digital and section-adaptive since 2024, it scores Reading & Writing and Math on a combined 400–1600 scale used in admissions and scholarship decisions.

College Board · $68

The College Board's first-semester-college-calculus exam for high-school students. A score of 3+ earns college credit or placement at most US universities, making it a standard accelerator for STEM-bound students.

College Board · $99

The end-of-course exam for the College Board's AP Statistics course, equivalent to a one-semester introductory college statistics class. A score of 3 or higher commonly earns college credit and is a strong foundation for data-oriented majors.

College Board · $99

One of the world's most widely taken English proficiency tests, accepted for university admission and immigration in the UK, Australia, Canada, and beyond. The Academic module targets higher-education and professional registration.

IELTS Partners (British Council, IDP, Cambridge English)

The academic English proficiency test accepted by universities in the US and worldwide. Non-native English speakers take it primarily for university admission, scholarships, and some visa pathways.

ETS

The highest level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, certifying the ability to understand Japanese used in a broad range of circumstances. N1 is frequently required for professional, academic, and certain visa pathways in Japan.

Japan Foundation & Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)

A computer-based, AI-scored academic English proficiency test accepted by universities worldwide and approved for visa and migration purposes in several countries. Non-native speakers take it for admission, professional registration, and immigration.

Pearson

An online, on-demand, computer-adaptive English proficiency test accepted by thousands of universities worldwide. Its low cost and at-home delivery make it a popular admissions alternative to TOEFL and IELTS for non-native speakers.

Duolingo · $70

The upper-intermediate level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, certifying the ability to understand Japanese in everyday situations and in a variety of circumstances. N2 is the level many employers in Japan treat as a practical hiring threshold.

Japan Foundation & Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)

An official, lifelong Spanish-language diploma issued by Spain's Instituto Cervantes. The B2 level certifies upper-intermediate proficiency and is widely accepted for university study, professional registration, and residency in Spanish-speaking countries.

Instituto Cervantes (on behalf of Spain's Ministry of Education)

An official, lifelong French-language diploma issued by the French Ministry of Education. The B2 level certifies upper-intermediate proficiency and is widely accepted for university admission in France and for residency and naturalization pathways.

France Éducation international (French Ministry of Education)

An internationally recognized German-language certificate from the Goethe-Institut at the B1 (intermediate) level. Widely accepted for residency and citizenship requirements, vocational training entry, and as proof of independent everyday German.

Goethe-Institut

The upper-intermediate level of China's official Chinese-language proficiency test, certifying the ability to discuss a wide range of topics and communicate fluently with native speakers. HSK 4 is a frequent requirement for university admission and degree programs in China.

Center for Language Education and Cooperation (Chinese Testing International / Hanban)

The intermediate-to-advanced tier of Korea's official Korean-language proficiency test, awarding a level from 3 to 6 based on score. Required for many university admissions, degree programs, and professional and visa pathways in South Korea.

National Institute for International Education (NIIED), Republic of Korea

The intermediate level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, certifying the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations to a degree. A bridge level often expected for service and support roles in Japan.

Japan Foundation & Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)

The intermediate-entry level of China's official Chinese-language proficiency test, certifying the ability to communicate in everyday, academic, and work situations. HSK 3 is a common admissions and program-placement threshold.

Center for Language Education and Cooperation (Chinese Testing International / Hanban)

The second level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, certifying the ability to understand basic Japanese used in everyday situations. A common milestone for learners heading toward study or work in Japan.

Japan Foundation & Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)

The second level of China's official standardized Chinese-language proficiency test, certifying the ability to handle simple, routine communication. A practical early milestone for learners building toward study or work involving Chinese.

Center for Language Education and Cooperation (Chinese Testing International / Hanban)

The entry level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test, certifying the ability to understand basic Japanese. Taken by learners building toward study, work, or residence in Japan and by employers as a baseline language signal.

Japan Foundation & Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES)

The entry level of China's official standardized Chinese-language proficiency test, certifying mastery of basic everyday words and phrases. A common first milestone for learners pursuing study, work, or business ties with China.

Center for Language Education and Cooperation (Chinese Testing International / Hanban)