This overview includes information to help you prepare for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology® (EPPP®). You’ll find details about exam format, Part 1 and Part 2 requirements, registration, costs, scoring, retakes, and study resources.
Exam Background and Purpose
The EPPP is developed by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). Licensing authorities in the United States and Canada use the exam as part of the licensure process for psychologists.
The EPPP currently includes two parts: EPPP Part 1–Knowledge and EPPP Part 2–Skills. All ASPPB member jurisdictions require candidates to pass EPPP Part 1–Knowledge before licensure. Some jurisdictions also require EPPP Part 2–Skills, so candidates should check the requirements of the licensing authority where they plan to practice.
Important EPPP Update
ASPPB has announced a future transition to an integrated EPPP. The current EPPP Part 1–Knowledge and EPPP Part 2–Skills exams are expected to remain available during the transition period. Candidates should review current ASPPB and licensing-authority requirements before registering, especially if they plan to test during the transition period.
Content Areas
EPPP Part 1–Knowledge may include topics related to biological bases of behavior, cognitive-affective bases of behavior, social and cultural bases of behavior, growth and lifespan development, assessment and diagnosis, treatment and intervention, research methods, statistics, ethical issues, legal issues, and professional responsibilities.
EPPP Part 2–Skills focuses more on applying psychological knowledge in practice. Content may include assessment, intervention, relational competence, professionalism, ethical practice, scientific orientation to practice, collaboration, consultation, and supervision.
Because EPPP requirements can vary by jurisdiction and may change during the transition to the integrated EPPP, candidates should use the current ASPPB candidate handbook and their licensing authority’s instructions when preparing.
Costs and Payment Options
The current EPPP Part 1–Knowledge application fee is $600. The current EPPP Part 2–Skills application fee is $450. Candidates also pay a test-site appointment fee of $91.88 for each exam appointment. Additional licensing, application, or administrative fees may be charged by your state, provincial, or territorial licensing authority.
Because fees can change, review ASPPB’s current registration and fee information before registering for the exam.
Registration/Times/Locations
To take the EPPP, candidates must first apply for licensure through the licensing authority in the state, province, or territory where they plan to practice. The licensing authority reviews the candidate’s credentials and determines whether the candidate is eligible to test.
After eligibility is approved, candidates register through the EPPP registration portal and schedule their testing appointment through Pearson VUE. Candidates generally must sit for the exam within 12 months of registering unless their licensing authority sets an earlier deadline.
Test Day
On test day, follow the instructions provided by ASPPB, Pearson VUE, and your licensing authority. Candidates testing at a Pearson VUE test center should bring the required identification and arrive early enough to complete check-in procedures.
Personal items, study materials, phones, watches, bags, notes, and other unauthorized materials are not allowed in the testing area. Candidates who need testing accommodations should request them during the registration process and follow the instructions provided by their licensing authority and ASPPB.
Test Scores
EPPP scores are reported on a scaled score range from 200 to 800. ASPPB’s recommended passing score for independent practice is 500, but licensing authorities determine the score requirements that apply in their jurisdictions.
Candidates should check with their licensing authority to confirm whether they need to pass only EPPP Part 1–Knowledge or both EPPP Part 1–Knowledge and EPPP Part 2–Skills.
Retaking the EPPP
If you do not pass the EPPP, retake approval and waiting-period rules may depend on your licensing authority. ASPPB limits candidates to no more than four EPPP attempts in any rolling 12-month period. Some jurisdictions may have stricter limits, so check with your licensing authority before registering again.
How Can I Prepare for the EPPP?
Preparing for the EPPP is easier when you know which exam part your jurisdiction requires. Start by reviewing the current ASPPB candidate handbook and your licensing authority’s instructions. A study guide can help you review major content areas, flashcards can reinforce important concepts, and practice questions can help you become familiar with the exam format.
If your jurisdiction requires EPPP Part 2–Skills, make sure your preparation includes applied practice scenarios and decision-making skills, not just knowledge review.
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EPPP® and ASPPB® are registered trademarks of the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards. The Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards is not involved with or affiliated with Mometrix Media LLC, nor does it endorse or sponsor any of the products or services offered by Mometrix Media LLC.
