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How to Study If You Failed the NBHWC Exam: Regroup, Refocus, and Rise

First things first—if you didn’t pass the NBHWC exam, you are not alone. This is one of the most challenging and comprehensive health coaching exams out there. It’s designed to test not just your knowledge, but your ability to apply the coaching competencies in real-life situations. Failing doesn’t mean you’re not a good coach. It just means it’s time to recalibrate your study approach.

Here’s how to study smarter (not harder) the second time around:


1. Process, Don’t Panic

Take a few days to step back and breathe. Failing the exam is disappointing—but it’s also data. You now know what the exam feels like, how the questions are structured, and where your weak points might be. That’s powerful insight.


2. Identify the Gaps

Ask yourself:

  • Did I struggle with time management?

  • Were scenario-based questions tough?

  • Did I fully understand the coaching competencies?

Revisit the NBHWC Content Outline and cross-check it against your study notes. Focus on the competencies you didn’t feel 100% confident in.


3. Use Structured, Targeted Resources

Random notes and scattered prep won’t cut it. You need:

  • A clear study plan – Our 12-week Study Guide Course offers weekly lessons, quizzes, and live reviews to reinforce the curriculum and simulate real exam questions.

  • Practice exams that mimic the real test – Try our two full-length exams:

    • Test Yourself to review the core curriculum.

    • Challenge Yourself to expand your thinking and tackle more advanced scenarios.

  • Detailed feedback – All our questions come with explanations for right and wrong answers, plus the exact competency they’re tied to. That’s where deep learning happens.


4. Practice Coaching Scenarios

The NBHWC exam is all about applying what you know to real-world coaching situations. Practice interpreting client statements, identifying which competency is in play, and choosing the best response—not just a good one. We post weekly coaching scenarios to help with this, so follow along.


5. Consider 1:1 Tutoring

Sometimes, a conversation with a certified NBC-HWC can make all the difference. Our 1:1 sessions are personalized—you choose what you need help with, and a tutor will walk through it with you.


6. Believe in Yourself

You already took the first step—you sat for the exam. That takes courage and commitment. With the right tools, support, and strategy, passing on your next attempt is absolutely within reach.


📌 Time is valuable—let’s make your next prep count. Structured support, focused resources, and a community that’s in it with you. Let’s do this, together.

👉 Ready to reset? Explore our Study Guide Course, practice exams, or book a 1:1 tutoring session at CoachNFlow.com.

You’ve got this. 💪