CEN Exam FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about the CEN exam, including eligibility, registration, study tips, and certification maintenance.
Quick Overview
What You Need to Know About the CEN Exam
You need 2+ years RN experience and 2,000+ hours in emergency nursing to be eligible. The exam costs $230-$370, has 175 questions in 3 hours, and requires a scaled score of 109 to pass. Study 8-12 weeks using the CEN Review Manual and BCEN practice exams.
RN Experience Required
Questions in 3 Hours
Exam Fee
Certification Valid
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility and Requirements
What are the eligibility requirements for the CEN exam?
To be eligible for the CEN exam, you must have a current, active, unencumbered RN license, a minimum of two years of RN experience, and completion of 2,000 hours of emergency nursing practice within the past three years. No specific educational requirements beyond RN licensure are needed.
Can new graduate nurses take the CEN exam?
New graduates cannot take the CEN exam immediately. You must have a minimum of two years of RN experience and 2,000 hours of emergency nursing practice within the past three years before becoming eligible.
Do I need to be an ENA member to take the CEN exam?
No, ENA membership is not required to take the CEN exam. However, BCEN membership (which is separate from ENA) provides a significant discount on the exam fee and other benefits.
Exam Details and Format
How long is the CEN exam and how many questions are there?
The CEN exam is 3 hours (180 minutes) long and contains 175 multiple-choice questions. Of these, 150 questions are scored and 25 are pretest questions that don't count toward your score but are randomly distributed throughout the exam.
What is the passing score for the CEN exam?
The CEN exam uses scaled scoring with a minimum passing score of 109 out of 200. The scaled score accounts for variations in exam difficulty and ensures consistent standards across different exam versions.
Can I use a calculator during the CEN exam?
No, calculators are not permitted during the CEN exam. However, basic mathematical calculations required for the exam are typically simple and can be performed mentally or with paper and pencil provided at the testing center.
What topics are covered on the CEN exam?
The CEN exam covers 10 content domains: Cardiovascular (18%), Respiratory (16%), Neurological (14%), Gastrointestinal (11%), Genitourinary/Gynecological (9%), Psychosocial/Medical (8%), Maxillofacial/Ocular (7%), Environmental/Toxicological (7%), Orthopedic/Wound (6%), and Communicable Diseases (4%).
Registration and Scheduling
How much does the CEN exam cost?
The CEN exam fee is $230 for BCEN members and $370 for non-members. Additional fees may apply for rescheduling or special accommodations. BCEN membership costs $50 annually and provides exam discounts plus other benefits.
How do I schedule my CEN exam?
After your application is approved by BCEN, you'll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email with instructions to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center. You can schedule online or by phone, and appointments are available year-round.
Can I take the CEN exam online or at home?
No, the CEN exam must be taken at an authorized Pearson VUE testing center. Online or remote testing is not available for the CEN exam due to security and integrity requirements.
Testing Experience
What should I bring to the CEN exam?
Bring two forms of valid identification (one must be government-issued with photo and signature). Do not bring personal items like phones, bags, or study materials as they are not permitted in the testing room.
How soon will I get my CEN exam results?
You will receive your preliminary pass/fail results immediately after completing the exam at the testing center. Official results with detailed score reports are typically available within 2-3 business days through your BCEN account.
How often can I take the CEN exam if I don't pass?
If you don't pass the CEN exam, you must wait 90 days before retaking it. There is no limit to the number of times you can retake the exam, but you must pay the full exam fee each time and meet the 90-day waiting period.
Study Preparation
How long should I study for the CEN exam?
Most successful candidates study for 8-12 weeks, dedicating 10-15 hours per week. Highly experienced emergency nurses may need only 4-6 weeks, while newer nurses might benefit from 12-16 weeks of preparation.
What study materials do I need for the CEN exam?
Essential materials include the CEN Review Manual by ENA and BCEN practice exams. Supplement with additional resources like Tintinalli's Emergency Medicine, online question banks, and current emergency nursing guidelines.
Certification Maintenance
How long is CEN certification valid?
CEN certification is valid for 4 years from the date you pass the exam. You must renew your certification before it expires to maintain your CEN credential.
How do I renew my CEN certification?
You can renew your CEN certification by completing 100 hours of continuing education in emergency nursing over the 4-year period, or by retaking and passing the CEN exam. Renewal applications must be submitted before your certification expires.
What are the benefits of CEN certification?
CEN certification demonstrates expertise in emergency nursing, can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities, provides professional recognition, enhances clinical confidence, and may be required for certain positions or career advancement.
Special Circumstances
What happens if I have a medical condition that requires special accommodations?
BCEN provides reasonable accommodations for candidates with documented disabilities. You must submit a request with supporting documentation at least 45 days before your desired test date. Contact BCEN directly for specific accommodation procedures.
What is the difference between CEN and other emergency nursing certifications?
CEN is the general emergency nursing certification covering all ages and conditions. Other certifications like CPEN (pediatric emergency), TCRN (trauma), and CPN (pediatric) focus on specific populations or specialties within emergency nursing.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Check out our comprehensive study resources or contact BCEN directly for official information.
Ready to Start Your CEN Journey?
The CEN exam is challenging but achievable with proper preparation. Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing facts, and use high-quality study materials that align with the current exam blueprint.