Pathway to BCBA Certification

The process of becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) includes educational requirements, fieldwork experience, and passing a certification exam. If you are interested in becoming a BCBA or have started the process, there are steps you can take to best prepare for your BCBA certification.

Pediatric Therapeutic Services (PTS) places BCBAs in our partnering school districts to train teachers and staff on best practices for behavior and behavior change, develop ABA programming in schools, and enhance special education programs. After achieving certification, you can apply to work alongside us as a school-based provider.

How Can I Become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst?

To become a BCBA, you’ll first need to obtain relevant educational requirements via undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. During your education, you’ll have the opportunity to gain fieldwork experience and work with a BCBA supervisor. 

Your educational and fieldwork experience is a vital part of your path to BCBA certification and can help you prepare for real-world situations. 

Once you have the necessary requirements, you can apply to take your BCBA exam. 

How Can I Prepare for My BCBA Certification Exam?

The BCBA exam is a 4-hour, multiple-choice test that, if passed, allows you to practice as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. You can schedule your exam date after your application is approved. In the time leading up to your exam date, there are several things you can do to feel prepared. 

Here are some of our best tips to help you prepare for your exam: 

Understand the Exam Format 

Before you take your BCBA exam, it’s good to know what to expect from the exam itself. The BCBA exam consists of 185 questions, and you have four hours to complete it. It covers several learned areas, including ethics, philosophies, processes, and concepts of behavior analysis. 

Create a Study Schedule 

Along with understanding the test format, it’s important to understand how you best study. What subjects do you understand primarily? Which ones could you use a bit more practice on? Answering these questions can help determine your study schedule.

You can also search for an online study guide to help you plan out your study schedule and know which areas to focus on, using the SAFMEDS study style to fully comprehend content.

Review Study Materials 

As you begin to study for your exam, it can be helpful to review your class materials, previous exams, textbooks, or fieldwork notes to refresh. Take the time to understand the terminology, too, which can make it easier to narrow down the multiple-choice options on the exam. Consider using the SAFMEDS method flashcard strategy as part of your preparation.

Take a Practice Exam 

Consider taking a practice BCBA exam before your test day. This can help you feel confident in the exam format, length, and materials. It can also help you identify any areas where you need more practice. 

Remember to Take Care of Yourself

While studying is one of the best things you can do for yourself before your BCBA exam, it’s important to prioritize self-care. Make sure you are getting plenty of sleep, eating balanced meals, and going for a walk to rest your mind.  

Build a Classroom-Based BCBA Career Alongside PTS

Becoming a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst is a rewarding process that lets you provide behavior-analytic services. After earning your certification, apply to work alongside PTS as a school-based BCBA!