Get Board Certified
Unlock the potential to make a profound impact on people’s lives by becoming a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach.
Upcoming Exams
July 20 - Aug 8, 2026
Apply Between:
May 18 – Jun 1, 2026
Nov 30 - Dec 14, 2026
Apply Between:
Sep 28 – Oct 12, 2026
Mar 8 - Mar 23, 2027
Apply Between:
Jan 4 – Jan 18, 2027
*All application periods close promptly at 5:00 PM EST. Late submissions will not be accepted.
National Board Certification Exam Requirements:
Did you know?
Many approved programs offer financial aid?
Check out the NBHWC Scholarship Guidebook for details!
Prior to applying for the NBHWC Board Exam you’ll need to complete an NBHWC Approved Training Program.
During your training, you’ll become well-versed in the five NBHWC Content Areas: Coaching Presence, Relationships and Sessions, Theories, Models and Approaches to Behavior Change, Skills, Tools and Strategies, Ethics and Professional Practice, and Health and Wellness.
Choose from more than 138 approved programs across the country, ranging from certificate to masters degree programs, including programs that are offered online for convenient remote attendance. Each program listed includes program information concerning delivery format, location, and contact information.
Please note you must complete the coursework before you can apply for the NBHWC Board Exam.
Did you know?
We offer a 3 week extension for the coaching log.
Check out the Coaching Log Extension for more details!
The coaching session requirement ensures all applicants gain real-world, hands-on experience prior to becoming National Board Certified.
Prior to being eligible for the NBHWC Board Exam you will need to complete 50 coaching sessions that meet the eligibility requirements listed on the NBHWC Coaching Log.
These sessions, which must occur after you pass a skills assessment within your training program, allow for skill development, competence in client interaction, and prepareation for certification.
Did you know?
Your degree and work expereince can be in ANY field!
Degree Verification
In addition to completing an NBHWC Approved Training Program, you must verify that you hold an associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.
The degree may be in any discipline, and must be completed before you apply for the NBHWC Board Exam.
Did you know?
You may be able to be reimbursed for your exam fees by the GI Bill!
Exam Fees are paid during registration.
Please read the Fee Policy linked below for important information on deadlines and refund information.
Exam Fee – $400
Application Fee** – $100
Fact Box
You must apply for the exam you wish to sit for during that specific application window.
Exam registrations are non-transferrable.
Once you have met the eligibility requirements you are ready to apply!
To submit your application, compile your application documents in PDF format and register at the link below. Please note you will be redirected to an NBME site to complete your exam registration.
Applications can take up to 30 days to process. Â You will be notified by email when your review is complete.
Apply Now!
Once you have met the eligibility requirements you are ready to apply!
To submit your application, compile your application documents in PDF format and register at the link below. Please note you will be redirected to an NBME site to complete your exam registration.
Exam Prep
Get ready to sit for the NBHWC Board Exam with the following resources.
Exam Tutorial
Find A Testing Center
Q&A Registration
We are here to help
Live Q&A Webinars
Every month NBHWC hosts live Q&A Webinars where we go over the history of NBHWC, exam eligibility requirements, and audience questions.
How To Videos
Need help registering for the exam or uploading your documents? Check out our How To Videos for a visual walkthrough of this and more!
FAQ
Have a question? Check out our detailed FAQs for additional information. If you still need help, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Contact NBHWC
Still need assistance? Â No problem! Â Our team is ready to answer any questions you have about becoming board certified!
Upcoming Events
2026 Coaching and Technology Summit: Coaching at Organizational Scale
Approved Training Program Connect – Public Sector
Approved Training Program Connect – Academic Programs
Approved Training Program Connect – All Programs
