NICET FAQs: Testing

Computer Based Testing (CBT)

Why is NICET moving from Paper Pencil to CBT exams?

Certification industry best practices dictate that NICET should confirm what the practitioners do every five to seven years. So we are doing that; and in addition, we're moving to CBT because it's more convenient for you, the candidate.

What do you mean 'it will be more convenient for me'?

You can take the exam when you're ready; you can do so at a secure, proctored facility; the computer base computes your score as you test so at the end you'll get your results. Before you even leave the test center, you'll know whether you passed your exam.

Will Work Elements (WEs) be used in the CBT format?

No, CBT will use a standardized test and everyone will be tested on the same material for each level.

I just took the Level II exam and also passed some Work Elements for Level III. Does this mean I lose those Work Elements?

Not at all; those certification candidates who are already taking Work Element exams will be given time to finish in that format. NICET plans to give ample notification to people taking the WE format exams, so they'll be able to finish that way, or change to the CBT exams; whichever they prefer.

What if I don't pass the new exams?

Two good things about that: you now know what kind of questions there are on the test, and if you're unsuccessful, you'll be told which areas you need to study more.

Will I be able to carry over the questions I passed, like the WE exams?

Unfortunately, no. But that means you won't have to test a number of extra work elements. It also means that everyone will have a test of equal difficulty.

Beta test: What's that?

The beta test is where NICET tests the test; we need to see if the questions are performing well and really asking what we think they're asking. During the Beta test, you won't get your results immediately, but to compensate for that, we're offering the test at a reduced fee.

What does NICET mean "if the questions are performing well"?

That means NICET may not use all the questions originally tested; for example, if everyone gets the question right, how does this distinguish between those candidates who know the material and those who don't? The same applies if everyone gets the question wrong. The purpose of the test is to tell which candidates are knowledgeable and which ones aren't.

What happens to the question if everyone gets it right? Or no one gets it right?

We won't use it on the published test after the Beta phase. Meantime, during the Beta phase, if you got it right, good for you!

Do I still have to get 60% in order to pass? What's the passing score?

The passing score has not been set yet; that's a main purpose of the Beta test. After enough people take the Beta, a committee of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) meets to set the passing score. This is a standardized procedure for certification exams.

If I pass the Beta test, have I passed the test? Do I have to take another test?

Yes and No: Yes - if you pass the Beta test, that's the same as passing the test. You're done with testing that material. No, you won't have to take another test. Of course, for certification there are still some experience requirements to be met. See NICET Certification Program Information.

Who makes up the questions?

A committee of SMEs meets to develop and review questions; there's an established process for that, and NICET follows the industry best practices.

If I don't pass and have to retest, will I get the same test?

No; NICET plans to publish at least two forms of the test of equal difficulty so if you retest, you'll be given the form you haven't seen yet. In addition, through CBT, the questions can be presented in random order; so if two people are taking the same test, they won't be seeing the same questions at the same time.

Can I see what questions I didn't pass so I know exactly what to study?

No; NICET and NICET SMEs spend a lot of time, money and effort developing those questions; they are NICET's intellectual property. If everyone were given the questions they didn't get right, soon everyone would know the questions on the test and NICET would be testing your memory, not your knowledge. It is, however, NICET's intent to inform you of those areas where you may need further study.

 

If none of these FAQs answered your question, please e-mail NICET. Questions related to your personal progress toward meeting a certification requirement must be directed to NICET by telephone. Please call 888-476-4238 or 703-548-1518.