How to Study for the BCBA Exam?

The exam consists of 185 multiple-choice questions. Of these, 175 are scored and 10 are unscored pilot questions.

You will have four hours to complete the exam.

Questions cover the BACB Task List, including foundational principles, assessment, intervention, and ethical considerations.

Understanding the exam format allows you to tailor your preparation and manage time effectively on test day.

A master’s degree in behavior analysis, psychology, or education from an accredited institution.

Completion of approved ABA coursework.

A minimum of 2,000 hours of supervised fieldwork or 1,500 hours of concentrated supervision.

• Begin reviewing the BCBA Task List to identify areas of strength and weakness.
• Gather study materials, including textbooks, study guides, and flashcards.
• Create a study schedule that includes daily or weekly goals.

• Start taking practice exams to gauge your progress.
• Focus on weak areas, so strengthen your understanding of these areas.

• More practice tests and timed quizzes.
• Review ethical guidelines and commonly misunderstood concepts.
• Mentally prepared, so try not to get stressed out, stay the course.

Assign specific topics to each week, such as focusing on one major task list area, like assessment or intervention. This approach helps you build a deep understanding of each topic.

Dedicate specific time slots each day to studying, ensuring consistent progress. For instance, you might spend mornings reviewing flashcards and evenings taking practice quizzes.

By setting clear goals, you create a roadmap that keeps you accountable and ensures steady progress toward exam readiness.

Invest in a reputable guide like The BCBA Exam Prep Manual or Cooper, Heron, and Heward’s Applied Behavior Analysis. These resources provide comprehensive coverage of the exam’s content.

Utilize platforms like Pass the Big ABA Exam for access to mock exams, video tutorials, and breakdowns of complex concepts.

Create or purchase flashcards to review key terms, ethical guidelines, and foundational principles. Apps like Quizlet can help you practice on the go.

Incorporate ABA podcasts or YouTube videos into your routine for a more engaging way to reinforce concepts.

Using multiple resources ensures you’re exposed to varied explanations and applications of ABA principles, deepening your understanding.

Set aside 30–60 minutes each day to answer practice questions. This helps reinforce what you’ve studied and familiarizes you with the exam format.

Take at least one full-length mock exam each month leading up to your test date. This not only assesses your knowledge but also builds the stamina needed for a four-hour exam.

After each practice session, review incorrect answers and understand the reasoning behind the correct choices. Use this feedback to adjust your study focus.

Practicing regularly trains your brain to retrieve information quickly and accurately under pressure.

Periodically evaluate your knowledge of each BCBA Task List area. Highlight strengths and weaknesses to prioritize study efforts.

Use a spreadsheet or app to log your practice test scores and track improvement over time.

At the end of each week, review what you’ve accomplished and identify areas needing more focus. 

Tracking progress gives you a sense of accomplishment and keeps you motivated throughout your preparation journey.

Collaborating with peers can add value to your preparation. Join a BCBA study group to discuss difficult concepts, share resources, and exchange strategies. Studying in a group also provides accountability and diverse insights that can clarify challenging topics.

Use the skills learned in assessments to conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) in real-world settings.

Reflect on ethical dilemmas encountered during your fieldwork and discuss how BACB guidelines would apply.

Applying concepts to real-life situations enhances understanding and retention while preparing you for scenario-based questions on the exam.

• Cooper, Heron, and Heward’s Applied Behavior Analysis
• BCBA Exam Study Prep Crash Course by Linda Cooper

• Pass the Big ABA Exam [Website]
• Study Notes ABA [YouTube channel]

• Quizlet (for flashcards)
• BCBA Exam Prep by TPN.health

A proven technique to build fluency in critical concepts. Write terms on one side of a card and definitions or examples on the other, then practice recalling them rapidly.

Use flowcharts, diagrams, and mnemonic devices to organize information. For example, create a chart to distinguish between reinforcement and punishment types.

Apply key concepts during fieldwork or case studies to strengthen your understanding and recall.

Waiting too long to start studying can leave you unprepared. Stick to your schedule and start early.

Using too many study materials can be overwhelming. Focus on a few trusted sources.

Ethical guidelines make up a significant portion of the exam. Don’t underestimate their importance.

Practice exams are vital for identifying gaps in knowledge and building test-taking stamina.

• Develop a consistent study routine to build confidence and avoid last-minute cramming.
• Incorporate relaxation techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, or muscle relaxation.
• Simulate the exam environment with timed practice tests to reduce anxiety and familiarize yourself with the format.

• Arrive early to settle in, review key concepts, and adapt to the environment.
• Focus on pacing; mark tough questions and move on to maintain momentum.
• Take short breaks to breathe deeply, helping reset and tackle the next question with clarity.
• Combine preparation with anxiety-management techniques for a confident approach to the BCBA exam.

Break down your study goals into smaller, manageable milestones. Celebrate these small wins, such as completing a chapter or passing a mock test. Rewards can range from a special treat, a night out, or simply taking time to relax.

Collaborate with peers to stay accountable and share insights. Engaging with others who are on the same journey can provide motivation and different perspectives on tough topics. A study group also offers a support network that understands the challenges you’re facing.

Regularly remind yourself of the reasons why you’re pursuing the BCBA certification and the positive impact you’ll make in the field. Visualization can be a powerful tool to keep your end goals in sight and maintain your drive throughout the preparation process.