The NBHWC Exam Doesn’t Have to Be Scary—Here’s How to Shift Your Mindset
Getting ready for the NBHWC board exam? Do you feel a pit in your stomach when you think about it? That’s normal. Formal exams can feel intimidating—especially if you’ve had tough experiences with tests in the past.
To pass, of course you need to know your stuff—core coaching concepts, behavior change theories, biometrics, the code of ethics, and more. But there’s another thing just as important: believing in yourself.
So many people think of themselves as “bad test-takers.” But remember—we’re all smart in different ways. I tell my 6-year-old son this all the time!
Maybe you’re great at connecting with people, thinking creatively, or noticing details others miss. Just because traditional exams haven’t been your thing doesn’t mean you’re not intelligent. It just means the way you think and process information might not have matched the way you were tested before.
The truth is, studying is a skill. Test-taking is a skill. And like any skill, they can be learned and improved—with the right tools, support, and strategy.
If you’ve mentally disqualified yourself by saying you’re a “bad test-taker”, here’s your first challenge: acknowledge that label isn’t serving you, and decide it’s time to let it go.
Try this reframe instead:
“Exams have been challenging for me in the past, but I’m working on building the skills to do better.”
See the difference? It’s honest, but it also leaves room for growth.
Along with that mindset reset, the right study strategy and prep materials matter. They help bridge the gap between what you know and how you show it on exam day.
Mindset Shift + Smart Strategy = Your Best Shot at Success
The Materials You Need to Pass the NBHWC Exam
At Health Coach Study Hall, we’ve designed study materials that work with your brain, not against it. We’re all about helping you study in focused and effective ways—so you can save time, actually remember what you’re learning, and find confidence in your knowledge and skills as a health and wellness coach.
We offer individually priced exam prep materials designed for busy people just like you. Practice exams, content review quizzes, a 6-week guided study plan, and a handful of free resources that help you lock in what you need to know.
Here are a few other practical ways to shift how you approach your NBHWC exam study sessions so you can feel in control.
1. Start Early and Create a Realistic Plan
Instead of cramming, space your studying out over time. This is more manageable, practical, and better for long-term retention.
Try this: Break your review sessions into weekly chunks using a study plan (like our 6-Week Guided Study Plan). Getting organized and deciding up front what you’ll study, when, and for how long puts you in the drivers seat and reduces stress.
2. Use Active Recall Instead of Passive Review
Reading or highlighting notes isn't enough. Your brain learns best through active methods where you have to pull information out of your memory.
Try this: Use flashcards, practice exams, or even teach concepts out loud to yourself or a friend. If you are going to read something, spend an extra 5 minutes at the end summarizing what you just read from memory. This helps lock in the information.
3. Use Mindset Mantras (Seriously!)
Shift your inner voice to something grounded and encouraging. This helps lower anxiety and improves focus.
Try this mantra: “I am smart and capable of understanding what I need to know to pass the NBHWC exam.”
Start early, pace yourself, and trust that we’re in your corner for everything you need for the NBHWC exam.
You absolutely have what it takes to pass this test! Believe in yourself.