What Is the CHES Test 2025?

The CHES Test 2025 is a competency-based exam offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC). It measures the possession, application and interpretation of knowledge essential to the professional practice of health education.

The CHES test is an important step in earning your CHES certificate. It’s also an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise and skills to employers.

Free CHES Practice Test Online

CHES Comprehensive Exam

Free CHES Practice Test covering Health Education Competencies with CHES Answers and Program Planning for Certified Health Education Specialist certification preparation.

CHES Basic Level

CHES Test Online featuring foundational concepts with CHES Questions and Community Health Assessment for entry-level health education specialist examination.

CHES Ultimate Preparation

CHES Mock Test covering advanced competencies with CHES Sample and Program Evaluation for comprehensive health education specialist certification mastery.

CHES Exam Dates

Whether you are looking to start or advance your career in health education, the CHES test is an essential part of the process. Taking the exam can make an impression on potential employers, and it can be a huge boost for your job search.

The CHES exam is offered only twice a year, which gives you plenty of time to prepare. It is best to create a study plan and block out two to three hours per day to focus on preparing for the exam.

You may also want to get a study guide, which can help you review the details that are most important for the CHES test. These guides will be filled with the critical information you need to know before sitting for the CHES test, including concepts, procedures, and principles.

The CHES test is offered through professional testing centers around the world. You can choose between in-person and online testing options, as well as live remote proctoring.

📚 CHES Overview

What does CHES stand for?: CHES stands for Certified Health Education Specialist, a nationally recognized professional credential in health education and promotion.
Who offers CHES certification?: The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) develops, administers, and maintains the CHES certification program.
Is CHES certification nationally recognized?: Yes, CHES is the premier national credential for health education specialists, recognized by employers, government agencies, and professional organizations.
What are the Seven Areas of Responsibility?: The seven areas are: assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, advocacy, communication, and leadership/management for health education practice.

📝 CHES Preparation

How should candidates prepare for CHES?: Review the Seven Areas of Responsibility, use NCHEC study materials, take practice exams, join study groups, and apply theoretical knowledge.
Are official CHES practice exams available?: Yes, NCHEC offers official practice exams that simulate the actual CHES format and provide score reports with feedback.
What study resources are best for CHES?: NCHEC's official study guide, online practice exams, review courses, webinars, and health education textbooks provide comprehensive preparation.
How many months should candidates study for CHES?: Most candidates study 8-12 weeks with consistent review, though new graduates may need less time while working professionals may need more.

✍️ CHES Content

How many questions are on the CHES exam?: The CHES exam contains 165 multiple-choice questions, with 150 scored questions and 15 pretest items that don't affect scoring.
What percentage covers each responsibility area?: Questions are distributed across seven areas: assessment (12%), planning (20%), implementation (17%), evaluation (15%), advocacy (10%), communication (13%), and leadership (13%).
Are CHES questions scenario-based?: Yes, most CHES questions use real-world scenarios requiring application of health education principles and competencies to practice situations.
What health topics appear on CHES?: CHES covers chronic disease prevention, health behavior theory, program planning models, community assessment, health literacy, and professional ethics.

🎯 CHES Results

What is the CHES passing score?: The CHES passing score is 500 on a scale of 200-800, determined through criterion-referenced standard setting.
When are CHES exam results available?: CHES results are typically available within 4 weeks after the testing window closes and are sent via email notification.
How long is CHES certification valid?: CHES certification is valid for 5 years and requires 75 continuing education contact hours for recertification.
What are CHES recertification requirements?: Recertification requires 75 CECH hours over 5 years, including at least 3 hours in Category I (advanced level) activities.

📖 CHES Career Benefits

What jobs require CHES certification?: Health education coordinator, wellness program manager, public health educator, community health specialist, and health promotion director positions often require CHES.
Does CHES certification increase salary?: Yes, CHES-certified professionals typically earn 10-20% more than non-certified colleagues and have better advancement opportunities.
What career settings employ CHES professionals?: CHES work in public health departments, hospitals, schools, corporations, nonprofits, insurance companies, government agencies, and community organizations.
Is CHES required for public health positions?: While not universally required, many public health and health education positions prefer or require CHES certification for hiring and promotion.

CHES Test Questions and Answers

What is the CHES exam?

The CHES (Certified Health Education Specialist) exam is a national credentialing test measuring competency in health education practice across seven areas of responsibility.

When can you take the CHES test?

The CHES test is offered during two testing windows annually (April and October) at computer-based testing centers nationwide.

How long does the CHES exam take?

The CHES exam is a 3-hour test consisting of 165 multiple-choice questions covering health education competencies.

What topics does the CHES test cover?

CHES covers assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, advocacy, communication, and leadership/management in health education practice.

How much does the CHES certification cost?

CHES exam fees are $320 for NCHEC members and $405 for non-members, plus optional study materials ($50-200).

Who is eligible for CHES certification?

Individuals with bachelor's or higher degrees in health education or health promotion, or related fields with health education coursework, are CHES-eligible.

How is the CHES exam scored?

CHES uses scaled scoring with a passing score of 500 out of 800; results are available approximately 4 weeks after testing.

Are CHES study materials available?

Yes, NCHEC offers official study guides, practice exams, webinars, and review courses specifically designed for CHES preparation.

Can you retake the CHES exam?

Yes, candidates can retake CHES during any future testing window by paying the exam fee again.

What is the average salary for CHES-certified professionals?

CHES-certified health educators earn $48,000-$65,000 annually, with senior positions and specialized roles earning $70,000-$90,000+.

CHES Test Practice Test