4 Reasons to Sit for the NBHWC Exam Sooner Than Later
If you've completed your NBHWC-approved coach training program and are still on the fence about when to take the NBHWC exam, you're not alone. Many coaches tell themselves they'll sit for the exam "eventually," but waiting too long can actually make the process harder than it needs to be.
Here are three reasons why sooner might be better than later when it comes to scheduling your exam:
1. You might lose access to your training materials.
Not all coach training programs provide lifetime access to their course content. Unless you saved all your resources, you may find yourself scrambling to locate key materials down the line. We've heard from many coaches who go to study months (or years) after graduation, only to realize they no longer have access to the tools that supported them the first time around.
2. Information fades over time.
Ride the momentum of your training program while you're already in the learning zone. Waiting too long means losing that mental rhythm and having to rebuild study habits and confidence from scratch.
Even if you're coaching regularly, the specific terminology, theories, and exam-style applications you learned in your training won’t stay fresh forever. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that you’ll have to relearn foundational content—especially when it comes to things like behavior change models, coaching ethics, and test-taking strategies.
3. Life only gets busier.
It’s easy to think “I’ll take it next year when things calm down,” but let’s be honest—life rarely slows down for long. Whether it’s work, caregiving, or unexpected curveballs, other commitments will always compete for your attention. Prioritizing the exam now can free up your mental space and create momentum for your coaching career.
4. It can open doors to more job opportunities.
Many employers hiring coaches now strongly prefer or require an NBHWC certification. Getting your NBC-HWC credential sooner helps you move forward in your career with clarity, and positions you for new roles or raises faster.
What to Do Next
Now that you’re thinking seriously about your exam timeline, it’s important to stay aware of key dates.
The NBHWC exam is offered three times a year—in March, July, and November. You typically need to apply 2–3 months in advance, so be sure to plan ahead. Each exam cycle has its own application window, and deadlines can sneak up fast. Visit the NBHWC website for accurate information on application dates and the process of applying.
Bottom line?
The longer you wait, the harder it gets.
The sooner you schedule your exam, the more momentum you build and the less you’ll have to relearn. So, make a plan, set your date, and trust that you have what it takes.
You don’t have to feel “perfectly ready” to begin preparing. What you really need is a smart strategy and tools that help you study effectively and confidently.
👉 Check out Health Coach Study Hall for self-paced, practical resources built specifically for busy coaches preparing for the NBHWC exam.