ABA Retake: A strategic approach to retaking the BCBA® exam.

Helpful tips for retaking the BCBA® exam

Understanding the Score Report after failing: After the initial exam attempt, you'll receive your score report with the break down of the BACB® Behavior Analyst Certification Board, 5th edition task list. The BACB® task list is organized in two major sections, Foundations, which includes basic skills and underlying principles and knowledge, and Applications, which includes more practice-oriented skills. Think of this as a map showing which paths (or sections of the exam) were most challenging for you. This report is crucial as it helps you identify the areas where you need to focus your efforts. However, most retest takers only focus on the sections they did poorly in and then the previous higher scores decline, it’s important to study every area of the task list.

Revisiting Study Material: Keep it simple and make sure that the materials you are using are valid and derived from materials that are approved by the BACB®. Be careful of free materials or scams online. If you have a hard time studying the material, join a course or study group to keep you accountable and motivated.

Practice Exams and Questions: Engaging in practice exams, going through the “why” and “why not” of the questions is helpful. Make sure to ask questions and dig deep into the material.

Seeking Support: Ask for help, make a plan, and be okay with failing. It can be very discouraging to get back into studying after failing the BCBA exam, you may not know where to begin. You are not alone, many people do not pass the exam the first time. Join an ABA Retake prep course, connect with other retest takers, or set up 1:1 sessions with a tutor.

Mental and Emotional Preparation: It's essential to approach retaking the exam with the right mindset. Be easy on yourself, try to stay positive, engage in self care, and reinforce your study maintained behavior. Think of this as preparing both your body and mind for the climb.

Application and Scheduling: Once you're ready, you'll need to schedule your retake. Be mindful of application deadlines and any changes in exam content or format that may have occurred since your last attempt. 

Remember, a retake is not failure; it's an opportunity to learn from your previous experience and approach the exam with new strategies and insights. It's about refining your skills and knowledge to successfully navigate the path to passing the exam and become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst®.

For more information or questions about the BCBA® exam visit the site below:

https://www.bacb.com/examination-information/#BCBAExamination

References:

https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BCBA-task-list-5th-ed-230130-a.pdf

https://www.bacb.com/bcba/

Disclaimer: ABA Retake products and services are offered independently of the BACB®. ABA Retake is not affiliated with the BACB®