CPCE Reference
CPCE exam: the complete guide
Last updated September 29, 2026 · Published by Counseling Exam Assist
Short answer
The CPCE is a 160-question multiple-choice exit exam (136 scored) that many counseling master's programs require. It covers the same 8 CACREP areas as the NCE, takes about four hours, and has no national passing score: each program sets its own. Try our free CPCE practice test.
CPCE at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Made by | Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE) |
| Who takes it | Counseling master's students near the end of their program |
| Questions | 160 multiple choice (136 scored, 24 pretest) |
| Time | About 4 hours |
| Content | 8 CACREP core areas |
| Passing score | Set by each program |
The 8 content areas
The CPCE uses the same eight areas as the NCE. Each one is explained in our NCE content areas guide, with key concepts and a sample question.
CPCE vs NCE
| CPCE | NCE | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | School exit exam | NCC certification and licensure |
| Questions | 160 | 200 |
| Passing score | Set by your program | Set by NBCC per form |
| Content | 8 CACREP areas | 8 CACREP areas + work behaviors |
Because the content overlaps so much, CPCE prep is also NCE prep. Read how to pass the NCE for a full study plan.
A 4-week CPCE study plan
- Week 1: take the free CPCE practice test to find weak areas.
- Week 2: drill your two weakest areas with flashcards.
- Week 3: 25-question mixed sets daily; review every rationale.
- Week 4: a full timed practice exam, then light review.
Check the official CPCE details with CCE and your program before test day.
Frequently asked questions
What is the CPCE exam?
The Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) is a multiple-choice exit exam many counseling master's programs use to check that students have mastered the eight CACREP core areas. It is developed by the Center for Credentialing & Education (CCE), an NBCC affiliate.
How many questions are on the CPCE?
The CPCE has 160 multiple-choice questions: 136 scored and 24 unscored pretest items, spread across the eight CACREP core areas. Candidates get about four hours.
What is a passing score on the CPCE?
There is no national passing score. Each program sets its own cut score, often based on the national average minus one standard deviation. Ask your program for its exact number.
Is the CPCE the same as the NCE?
No, but they cover the same eight CACREP areas in a similar multiple-choice format. The CPCE is a school exit exam; the NCE is a national certification and licensure exam. Studying for one prepares you well for the other.
How do I study for the CPCE?
Take a baseline practice test, find your two weakest CACREP areas, drill them with short daily question sets, and review rationales for every miss. Aim for 70% or better on mixed practice before test day.
Practice until the dashboard says you're ready
$100 one-time for unlimited AI-generated NCMHCE cases and NCE practice. If our dashboard says you're Exam Ready and you don't pass, email annie@emdrassist.com with your Exam Ready screenshot and failed score (with dates) for a full refund.
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