Failed my NCE twice — what finally worked for me third time — Forums

Daniel M.OP

May 27, 2026

I'm not going to sugarcoat it — I bombed the NCE the first two times and seriously considered just giving up on licensure altogether. First attempt I scored a 93 (passing is 97 on most state conversions) and thought it was a fluke. Second time I did slightly worse. I was devastated.

What changed everything was finally finding a decent NCE practice test that actually matched the real exam's format and weighting. I'd been using outdated study materials that overloaded me on theory and barely touched the Human Growth and Development domain, which is huge on the actual test. I also started using a structured study guide instead of just rereading my grad school notes like a zombie.

Third attempt I passed with a 114. The thing that genuinely helped: timed practice tests, drilling counseling theory (especially Adlerian and person-centered), and focusing hard on the research and program evaluation section that I kept ignoring. Happy to share my full breakdown if anyone wants it — just ask.

Amanda H.

May 27, 2026

The Human Growth domain thing is so real. My supervisor warned me about it but I still underestimated it. I passed on my second try but just barely, and looking back I spent way too much time on stuff like ethical codes (which matter but aren't as heavily tested as people think) and not enough on developmental theories. Glad you finally got through it — NCE stress is no joke, especially when you've already invested so much in the degree.

Jessica L.

May 28, 2026

This is so encouraging to read. I take mine in six weeks and I'm terrified. Can I ask how many hours you were putting in per day toward the end? I'm doing about 90 minutes after work but I'm worried it's not enough. My weakest area is career counseling and group dynamics — any specific exam tips for those sections? I keep second-guessing myself on the group work questions especially.

Chris D.

May 28, 2026

Congrats on passing! The timed practice point is clutch — I passed last year and honestly think doing full 200-question timed runs in the final two weeks is what got me over the line. Your brain just responds differently under real time pressure. Don't skip that step.

Failed my NCE twice — what finally worked for me third time

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