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NBHWC Exam Day: Timing, Tools, and Test Center Rules- What to Expect
If you’re preparing for the NBHWC exam and working toward your health coaching certification, it’s important to know exactly what to expect on test day. While studying with the right health coaching resources is key, understanding the exam structure, timing, and testing environment can make a huge difference in how confident and calm you feel when it matters most. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from how the exam is timed, what materials you’re allowed to use, and how to handle special accommodations, all the way down to what you can (and can’t) bring with you. NBHWC Exam Format and Timing The NBHWC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions split into two equal sections: Part 1: 75 questions Part 2: 75 questions Time limit: 90 minutes per section (total of 3 hours) After completing the first section, you’re given a 15-minute break. This break is optional. You can return to your seat early and
NBHWC Exam-How It Is Scored and Why It’s Fair for Everyone
If you’ve been preparing for the NBHWC Board Exam, you may have heard different explanations about how the scoring works. Some people believe only a certain percentage of test-takers pass, while others think the results depend on your testing group. Fortunately, the reality is simpler—and much fairer. Here’s a clear explanation of how the scoring process works, based on information from the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) and the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME). A Fair and Standardized Process The NBHWC exam isn’t graded on a curve, and you’re not competing against other test-takers. The purpose of the exam is to measure whether you’ve reached a consistent, professional standard of knowledge and skill expected of a certified health and wellness coach. The NBHWC Health & Wellness Coach Certifying Examination is scored on a pass/fail basis, with the passing score determined by a panel of subject matter
Medicare Reimbursement for Health & Wellness Coaching: A Turning Point in National Recognition
The National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) has taken a major step forward in advocating for the inclusion of Health and Wellness Coaching (HWC) services under Medicare Part B. As the health coaching profession continues to grow and demonstrate measurable impact on chronic disease management and lifestyle-related health conditions, this development marks a significant milestone in the broader integration of board-certified health coaches into the healthcare system. Special recognition is due to Margaret Moore, MBA—also known as Coach Meg—co-founder of NBHWC, Wellcoaches Corporation, and the Institute of Coaching. Her tireless advocacy, leadership, and years of behind-the-scenes policy work have been instrumental in positioning the field of health and wellness coaching for national recognition and future reimbursement. Advocacy in Action: Meeting with CMS In June 2025, NBHWC representatives met with a senior policy advisor to Dr. Mehmet Oz, the new Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Should You Renew Your NBC-HWC Credential? A Thoughtful Look at a Crossroads in Health Coaching
Considering NBC-HWC Renewal: Weighing the Value and the Future of Your Credential If you’re a board-certified health coach who has held your NBC-HWC credential for a few years, you may find yourself facing an important and personal decision: Should I renew? As the health coaching industry continues to evolve, so too does the landscape for certified professionals. A recent discussion among coaches revealed a wide range of thoughts, frustrations, and motivations around this topic. It’s clear that the decision to renew is not just about meeting requirements—it’s about career alignment, identity, and future direction. Here’s a closer look at the key themes and considerations emerging from these ongoing conversations. Why Some Coaches Are Choosing to Renew Many coaches feel strongly about maintaining their NBC-HWC credential. For them, it represents a significant achievement and a standard of professionalism they want to uphold. Some of the most common reasons cited include: Professional
How to Choose the Right NBHWC-Approved Health & Wellness Coaching Program- What Really Matters
Health and wellness coaching is a growing field—but it’s also currently unregulated. That means anyone can call themselves a coach, regardless of training. If you’re serious about building a career in coaching, becoming a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) is the gold standard. But before you can sit for the national board exam, you must complete a program approved by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). So, how do you assess which NBHWC-approved program is right for you? Here’s a guide to making a smart, informed decision. 1. Know the Baseline: What “NBHWC-Approved” Really Means NBHWC-approved programs must meet rigorous criteria. This includes: 75+ instructional hours covering all coaching competencies Faculty with advanced degrees, active coaching credentials, and real-world coaching experience Structured practice coaching sessions and feedback from qualified mentors A pass/fail practical skills assessment before graduation This ensures the program equips you with
