CNS Practice Test
Your Proven Shortcut to Clinical Nurse Specialist Success
Get exam-style questions, detailed explanations, and realistic timing to master the latest American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Prepare CNS practice test then walk into your Nursing exam with confidence.
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How Our Practice Test Works?
Study wherever, whenever with these quiz types:
Pick a Mode
You can choose Exam Mode (timed 90-minute simulation) or Study Mode for preparation.
Realistic Mix
Questions reflect both multiple-choice and scenario/performance-style prompts aligned to CNS objectives.
Detailed Explanations
Every question includes a clear explanation, so you know why an answer is correct.
Domain Analytics
See strengths/weaknesses by the domains & sub-topics to focus your revision.
Reattempts
Retake sets to improve your speed and accuracy; watch your score trend toward the benchmark.
Exam Simulator
Get a feel for the real exam with our American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) practice test.
Why Choose PrepHOW for CNS Practice Questions
Train the way you'll be tested. Our platform replicates the real American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) experience and turns every attempt into clear, actionable progress-so you waste less time and pass sooner.
Real Exam Feel
Exam/Study modes, question flagging, and instant or end-of-exam feedback.
Smarter Analytics, Faster Improvement
Trend charts so you can see when you're consistently above the passing scrore.
Quality You Can Trust
Clear, teach-back explanations with why the correct answer is right and why others aren't.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Exam?
The Clinical Nurse Specialist exam is a national certification examination that validates advanced practice nursing competency in a specialized area of clinical practice. It's administered by professional nursing certification organizations and is required for CNS licensure and practice in most states.
Which organizations offer CNS certification exams?
The two primary national certifying bodies that offer CNS exams in the United States are:
- The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC): Offers the Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist certification (AGCNS-BC).
- The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN): Offers certifications like the Acute Care Clinical Nurse Specialist in Adult-Gerontology (ACCNS-AG), Pediatric (ACCNS-P), and Neonatal (ACCNS-N).
Can I take the CNS exam before graduating?
Yes, if all coursework and clinical hours are complete. You'll receive ATT status, allowing you to test, but certification isn't issued until final transcripts with degree conferral are received (within 2 years, or the application is abandoned). This applies to master's, post-graduate, or DNP programs.
What are the core eligibility requirements to sit for a CNS exam?
While requirements vary slightly by specialty and certifying body, the core requirements typically include:
- A current, active, unencumbered Registered Nurse (RN) license.
- Completion of a Master's, Post-Graduate Certificate, or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from an accredited CNS program (CCNE or ACEN accredited).
- Successful completion of required graduate-level coursework in advanced physiology/pathophysiology, advanced pharmacology, and advanced health assessment.
- Completion of a minimum of 500 faculty-supervised clinical hours in the CNS role and population focus (e.g., Adult-Gerontology, Pediatric).
What are the different CNS specialty tracks I can be certified in?
The ANCC offers several population-focused CNS certifications. The most common ones include:
- Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (AGCNS-BC)
- Pediatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (PCNS-BC)
- Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist (NCNS-BC)
- Certified Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS-Core)
How should I prepare for the CNS exam?
A structured study plan is crucial for success. Recommended preparation includes:
- Review the ANCC Test Content Outline: This is the most important document, detailing the percentage of questions from each domain.
- Use CNS Review Books: Purchase a comprehensive review guide specific to your specialty track.
- Take Prephow CNS Practice Tests: Utilize question banks and practice exams to identify weak areas and build test-taking stamina.
- Join a Study Group: Collaborating with peers can provide support and deepen your understanding.
How long is CNS certification valid, and how do I maintain it?
CNS certification is typically valid for 5 years. To maintain certification, you must complete continuing education requirements (usually 75-100 contact hours), maintain your RN license, document practice hours as a CNS, and pay renewal fees.