Can You Take NASM CPT Online? [2024]

Have you ever dreamed of becoming a certified personal trainer? The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) is a well-respected organization that offers a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam. But can you take the NASM CPT exam online? In this article, we will explore the options available to you and provide all the information you need to know about taking the NASM CPT exam from the comfort of your own home.

Quick Answer

Yes, you can take the NASM CPT exam online. NASM offers two options for taking the exam: the NASM Personal Trainer Certificate (Non-Proctored Exam) and the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (NCCA Accredited Certification Exam). The non-proctored exam is open-book and can be taken online within 180 days of enrollment. The NCCA accredited exam is proctored and can be taken either in-person or online within the same time frame.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: NASM Personal Trainer Certificate | CHECK PRICE on: NASM Certified Personal Trainer

Quick Tips and Facts

  • NASM offers two options for taking the CPT exam: the non-proctored exam and the NCCA accredited exam.
  • The non-proctored exam is open-book and can be taken online within 180 days of enrollment.
  • The NCCA accredited exam is proctored and can be taken either in-person or online within the same time frame.
  • Both exams require a passing grade of 70% or better.
  • The non-proctored exam consists of 100 questions, while the NCCA accredited exam consists of 120 questions.
  • To be eligible for the exam, you need a high school degree or GED and current CPR and AED certification.

Background: NASM CPT Exam Options

woman sitting on brown wooden chair while using silver laptop computer in room

Before we dive into the details of taking the NASM CPT exam online, let’s take a brief look at the two exam options offered by NASM.

  1. NASM Personal Trainer Certificate (Non-Proctored Exam)

    • This option allows you to take the exam online without the need for a proctor.
    • The exam is open-book, meaning you can refer to study materials and resources while taking the test.
    • You have 180 days from the date of enrollment to complete the exam.
    • The exam consists of 100 questions, and you must achieve a passing grade of 70% or better.

  2. NASM Certified Personal Trainer (NCCA Accredited Certification Exam)

    • This option is the more traditional, proctored exam.
    • You can choose to take the exam either in-person or online.
    • Like the non-proctored exam, you have 180 days from the date of enrollment to complete the exam.
    • The exam is closed-book, meaning you cannot refer to any study materials or resources.
    • It consists of 120 questions, and you must achieve a passing grade of 70% or better.

Now that we have a better understanding of the two exam options, let’s explore the process of taking the NASM CPT exam online.

NASM’s Certified Personal Trainer Exam Options

Option 1: NASM Personal Trainer Certificate (Non-Proctored Exam)

The NASM Personal Trainer Certificate is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of taking the exam online without the need for a proctor. Here’s what you need to know about this option:

  1. Exam Format and Requirements:

    • The exam is open-book, allowing you to refer to study materials and resources.
    • It consists of 100 questions, covering various topics related to personal training.
    • You have 180 days from the date of enrollment to complete the exam.
    • To pass the exam, you must achieve a score of 70% or better.

  2. Study Materials and Resources:

    • NASM provides a variety of study materials and resources to help you prepare for the exam.
    • The NASM EDGE personal training app is a valuable tool that offers study guides, flashcards, and practice exams.
    • The Exam Prep Q&A Forum allows you to ask questions and get answers from NASM experts and other candidates.

  3. Taking the Exam Online:

    • To take the exam online, you need a stable internet connection and a compatible device.
    • You can access the exam through the NASM website using your login credentials.
    • Once you start the exam, you have three hours to complete it.

Option 2: NASM Certified Personal Trainer (NCCA Accredited Certification Exam)

If you prefer a more traditional, proctored exam experience, the NASM Certified Personal Trainer option is for you. Here’s what you need to know about this option:

  1. Exam Format and Requirements:

    • The exam is closed-book, meaning you cannot refer to any study materials or resources.
    • It consists of 120 questions, covering a wide range of topics related to personal training.
    • You have 180 days from the date of enrollment to complete the exam.
    • To pass the exam, you must achieve a score of 70% or better.

  2. Eligibility Requirements:

    • To be eligible for the exam, you need a high school degree or GED.
    • You must also have current CPR and AED certification.
    • If you don’t have CPR and AED certification, NASM offers a course to help you obtain it.

  3. Taking the Exam:

    • You can choose to take the exam either in-person or online.
    • If you choose the online option, you need a stable internet connection and a compatible device.
    • The exam is administered through a proctoring service, ensuring the integrity of the exam.

Preparing for the Exam

Preparing for the NASM CPT exam is crucial to your success. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

  1. Study the NASM CPT Exam Content Outline:

    • The NASM CPT Exam Content Outline provides a detailed breakdown of the topics covered in the exam.
    • Use it as a guide to focus your study efforts on the areas that will be tested.

  2. Utilize NASM Study Materials:

    • NASM offers a variety of study materials and resources to help you prepare for the exam.
    • The NASM EDGE personal training app is a valuable tool that offers study guides, flashcards, and practice exams.
    • The Exam Prep Q&A Forum allows you to ask questions and get answers from NASM experts and other candidates.

  3. Take Practice Exams:

    • Practice exams are a great way to assess your knowledge and identify areas that need improvement.
    • NASM provides practice exams through the NASM EDGE app and other study materials.

  4. Stay Consistent and Manage Your Time:

    • Create a study schedule and stick to it.
    • Break down your study materials into manageable chunks and allocate time for each topic.
    • Avoid cramming and give yourself enough time to review and reinforce the information.

Helpful Resources

To support your journey in becoming a certified personal trainer, NASM provides several helpful resources:

  • Candidate Handbook: The NASM Candidate Handbook contains essential information about the exam, eligibility requirements, and exam policies.
  • Study Guide: The NASM Study Guide offers a comprehensive overview of the exam content and provides study tips and strategies.
  • How to Become a Personal Trainer Page: NASM’s website features a dedicated page that guides you through the process of becoming a personal trainer.
  • NASM EDGE Personal Training App: The NASM EDGE app offers study guides, flashcards, practice exams, and other valuable resources to help you prepare for the exam.
  • Exam Prep Q&A Forum: The Exam Prep Q&A Forum allows you to ask questions and get answers from NASM experts and other candidates.

Scheduling Your Exam

Scheduling your NASM CPT exam is a straightforward process. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. NASM Personal Trainer Certificate (Non-Proctored Exam):

    • The non-proctored exam does not require scheduling.
    • You can take the exam online at any time within 180 days of enrollment.

  2. NASM Certified Personal Trainer (NCCA Accredited Certification Exam):

    • You can schedule the NCCA accredited exam online or through NASM Member Services.
    • Choose a date and time that works best for you within the 180-day window.

Day of Exam Information

On the day of your NASM CPT exam, it’s essential to be prepared and know what to expect. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. NASM Personal Trainer Certificate (Non-Proctored Exam):

    • The non-proctored exam is open-book and can be taken online.
    • You have three hours to complete the exam.
    • Make sure you have a stable internet connection and a compatible device.

  2. NASM Certified Personal Trainer (NCCA Accredited Certification Exam):

    • The NCCA accredited exam is closed-book and can be taken either in-person or online.
    • You have two hours to complete the exam.
    • If you choose the online option, ensure you have a stable internet connection and a compatible device.
    • You will need to provide proof of valid, current, government-issued photo ID and current, valid CPR and AED certification.

After the Exam

Once you have completed the NASM CPT exam, here’s what you can expect:

  1. If You Pass the Exam:

    • If you pass the exam, you can print a temporary certificate within three to five business days.
    • You will receive an official certificate within four to six weeks.

  2. If You Do Not Pass the Exam:

    • If you do not pass the exam, NASM offers retest options.
    • The specific waiting periods and retest requirements differ for each exam option.

Conclusion

boy in gray shirt sitting on chair

Taking the NASM CPT exam online is a convenient and flexible option for aspiring personal trainers. Whether you choose the non-proctored exam or the NCCA accredited exam, NASM provides the resources and support you need to succeed. Remember to study diligently, utilize the available study materials, and manage your time effectively. With dedication and preparation, you can achieve your goal of becoming a certified personal trainer.

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