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The National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE) is a crucial exam for anyone hoping to practice as a professional counselor in the US. It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and often takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete.
As you might imagine, this examination can be quite challenging. It’s also a relatively expensive test, incurring a non-refundable fee of $275 during each registration. Consequently, it’s vital to prepare for the test beforehand.
Fortunately, there are several top-notch NCE prep courses available online.
Which of these study-intensive courses might help you pass the NCE with flying colors? Let’s compare the best NCE prep courses to find out.
The Dooey NCE Prep Course is an online course that helps students prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCE) for elementary education. The course covers all of the content that is tested on the NCE, including reading, writing, mathematics, and science. The course also includes practice tests, video tutorials, and access to a private online forum where students can ask questions and get help from the course instructor.
Content (MCQ’s, Flashcards, Videos etc.)
9.5
Technology (App, Dashboard, Adaptive Learning)
9
Support (Instructor Access, Peer Groups, Email Response Times & Quality)
9.5
Value (Pricing, Financing Options, Discounts)
9.5
Positive
The course is comprehensive and covers all of the content that is tested on the NCE.
The practice tests are realistic and help students to prepare for the actual exam.
The video tutorials are clear and easy to follow.
Negatives
The practice tests are not timed, so students may not get a realistic sense of how long it will take them to complete the actual exam.
Dooey NCE Practice Quiz
Features:
Comprehensive coverage of all NCE content
1,200+ Practice questions with detailed answer explanations
35+ Video tutorials on all NCE topics
530+ Flashcards
Bottom Line
The Dooey NCE Prep Course is a comprehensive and well-designed course that can help students prepare for the NCE. The course is expensive, but it offers a lot of value for the price. If you are serious about passing the NCE, then the Dooey NCE Prep Course is a great option.
The Dooey NCE Prep Course is offered by Dooey Learning, a company that specializes in preparing students for teacher licensure exams. Dooey Learning has a good reputation for providing high-quality courses, and the Dooey NCE Prep Course has been praised by many students.
If you are interested in learning more about the Dooey NCE Prep Course, you can visit the Dooey Education website or contact the company directly.
Most Comprehensive Mometrix University NCE
8.5Expert Score
Mometrix
This course is one of the most comprehensive study options available. It’s also easily accessible, offering users up to one week of free access. So, you can try it out, and if you don’t feel like it’s worth the $79.99 monthly fee, you can immediately opt out. There are hundreds of high quallity flashcards and practice questions, video lessons, and text-based, subject-specific study guides. Each video lesson concludes with a quick practice quiz for improved reinforcement. You can also choose to retake any quiz or rewatch any video, making for your NCE review process straightforward. This option is also compatible with multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. Consequently, you can study for the NCE at nearly any location. And keeping track of your progress is easy with the help of the tracking bar located at the top of each lesson. The only potential drawbacks to choosing this prep course are the lack of extended access and recurrent monthly subscription fee. Still, we found that the majority of examinees will absorb the bulk of the information on offer within about one month, which may lower overall costs if you remember to cancel.
Content (MCQ’s, Flashcards, Videos etc.)
9.5
Technology (App, Dashboard, Adaptive Learning)
8
Support (Instructor Access, Peer Groups, Email Response Times & Quality)
8.5
Value (Pricing, Financing Options, Discounts)
9
Positive
A free 7-day trial ensures that examinees are satisfied with the study materials
More than 450 flashcards make it easy to study on-the-go
Nearly 1,650 practice questions
far more than other NCE preparation courses
All 84 lessons feature an end-of-lesson quiz that reinforces learned information
Easy-to-use user interface and progress tracking bar
Negatives
No lifetime subscription option
If you don't cancel your subscription, you'll be charged $79.99 every month
Bottom Line
Offering more than 1650 practice questions, 83 lessons, and 30 videos, this course caters to every type of learner. It features flashcards, full-length practice tests, and bonus guides addressing test anxiety and study strategies. With a 7-day money-back guarantee, it’s a risk-free investment for aspiring counselors. This engaging course is accessible, tailored to various learning preferences, and equipped with tools to track progress, making it an excellent choice for NCE exam preparation.
Dr. Gary L. Arthur has been teaching graduate-level counseling courses for more than four decades. That dedication makes Dr. Arthur’s Study Guide one of the most trustworthy NCE preparation sources. Unlike our other top picks, this option includes the opportunity to interact with a master of the field. Both prep packages come with a 30-minute (maximum time limit) consultation with Dr. Arthur himself. As such, examinees can ask any needling or unanswered questions about the NCE and receive a direct, honest, and informed response. Even better, both packages remain accessible and valid for up to one year after the purchase date. The pre-assessment NCE exam is also a practical addition. It allows you to gauge your weak subjects and focus more intensely on those during the preparation process.
Content (MCQ’s, Flashcards, Videos etc.)
8.5
Technology (App, Dashboard, Adaptive Learning)
8
Support (Instructor Access, Peer Groups, Email Response Times & Quality)
8.5
Value (Pricing, Financing Options, Discounts)
9
Positive
All plans include a 30-minute consultation with Dr. Gary Arthur
Prep access lasts for one year after purchase
Nearly 1,650 practice questions
far more than other NCE preparation courses
Two extra practice exams are available for an additional charge of $60
Includes a pre-assessment exam that helps you target trouble areas
Dr. Arthur’s Study Program for the NCE offers a comprehensive, proven resource with a 97% pass rate. With a focus on smarter preparation leading to better results, the program includes detailed study guides, case study simulators reflecting the latest exam formats, and personalized consults. Emphasizing practicality and effectiveness, the course promises a money-back pass guarantee, underscoring its confidence in helping candidates succeed. Ideal for those seeking an in-depth, structured approach to conquering their licensure exams, it’s a top recommendation for future counselors.
Valued Priced NCETestPrep.com
6.5Expert Score
NCETestPrep.com
This NCE Test Prep course was designed by Raysha, an instructor and counselor whose organizational skills are worthy of endless praise. After all, it’s challenging to fit all of the relevant information examinees need to master into an easy-to-follow 8-week curriculum. Still, the step-by-step curriculum and balanced pacing aren’t the only things that make this option attractive. At only $69, this course offers more bang for your buck, especially when you consider how many videos, text files, and practice exams are included. Unfortunately, there is no satisfaction guarantee associated with this NCE test preparation course. Additionally, users are limited to a 90-day access window, which is far shorter than the average access limit of one year.
Content (MCQ’s, Flashcards, Videos etc.)
8.5
Technology (App, Dashboard, Adaptive Learning)
8
Support (Instructor Access, Peer Groups, Email Response Times & Quality)
8.5
Value (Pricing, Financing Options, Discounts)
9
Positive
One of the most budget-friendly options
It offers a 6 to 8 week curriculum that's evenly paced and highly structured
Features a unique mix of video and text-based study materials
Two extra practice exams are available for an additional charge of $60
The final module consists of practical tips and exam advice
Negatives
No satisfaction guarantee or clearly-outlined refund process
Limited access of 90 days
Bottom Line
The NCE Test Prep website offers a focused approach to conquering the NCE with self-paced courses and webinars tailored to cutting through the overwhelm of exam preparation. Highlighting over 80 hours of content, comprehensive practice exams, and specific study sessions over 6 to 8 weeks, it’s designed for those who are serious about passing the NCE on their first try. A unique blend of detailed study guides, video coverage of essential domains, and insider exam tips make this a standout resource for aspirants.
If you prefer to utilize physical study materials (as opposed to digital ones), you may enjoy the options available from Licensure Exams, Inc.
This preparation provider offers physical study guides, CDs, and quick-reference guides (called Tidbits). Those who purchase audio study guides (CDs and CD sets) can also enjoy free shipping on those items.
However, an annual subscription plan that includes access to all resources and materials costs almost $600.
That’s double the cost of registering for the NCE, and it may be far too pricey for some examinees.
Additionally, refunds and returns can be challenging. For example, if you opt for a weekly subscription plan, you only have two days to try the study materials and request a refund. Physical items aren’t eligible for returns or refunds.
Things We Like
Offers both digital and paperback study guides
Examinees can choose from multiple subscription plans
Instructional CDs ship for free
NCE Exam Tidbits are condensed, affordable, and easy-to-reference study guides
Things We Don’t Like
An annual subscription plan that includes all resources and materials costs about $600
Test.com offers exam preparation resources for a wide variety of tests. While this diversity can be a boon for those attempting multiple examinations, it does have a few noticeable drawbacks.
Firstly, because Test.com’s NCE Practice Exams Plus is one of the hundreds of Test.com preparation products, it doesn’t feel quite as dedicated and comprehensive as other options.
While you’ll be able to access a test simulator feature, flashcards, and 800 practice questions, you won’t be able to view video lessons or order study guide books. That said, you could choose to download a printable version of this massive study guide.
Still, this option feels less interactive, which can be problematic for visual learners.
That said, Test.com’s NCE Practice Exams Plus is comparatively affordable at less than $100. In addition, Test.com also offers all users a full money-back satisfaction guarantee, which is far more impressive than the limited-time guarantees.
Things We Like
Offer unlimited access to study materials
Competitively priced for increased accessibility
TestSIM feature to simulate testing environment and time limit restrictions
Compatible with tablets, smartphones, and computers
84 text lessons, 30+ instructional videos, 488 flashcards
450+ flashcards, online study guide, phone consultation
Six video reviews, 25 instructional videos, study plan, 16-module course curriculum
Paperback study guide, eBook study guide, digital audio lessons, CD sets, reference guides
Test simulator, flashcards
Satisfaction Guarantee
Yes, or money back
Limited; 3-day satisfaction guarantee
No satisfaction guarantee
Limited; 7-day for monthly or yearly subscription plans, 2-day for weekly subscription plans, no refunds on physical materials
Yes, or money back
Price
$79.99 (every month)
$199 to $356 (single payment)
$39 to $69 (single payment)
$14.95 to $599.95 (varies depending on chosen materials)
$39.95 to $79.90 (single payment)
FAQs
Below you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding NCE prep courses. If you have any remaining questions or concerns, you may be able to resolve them by checking out the inquiries just below.
What Should I Study for NCE?
There are eight CACREP domains that you should concentrate on when studying for the NCE:
Assessment and Teaching
Career Counseling
Counseling and Helpful Relationships
Group Counseling and Group Work
Human Growth and Development
Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice
Research and Program Evaluation
Social and Cultural Diversity
How Long Should You Study for NCE?
The preparation period varies from person to person. Still, most examinees will want to spend a minimum of one week studying. But those determined to achieve the highest possible scores will want to dedicate three months to prepare for the NCE.
What Is the Passing Score for NCE 2021?
The passing score for the NCE changes slightly with every iteration and administration. That said, the general minimum for a passing score tends to range between 95 and 110.
What Percentage of People Pass the NCE the First Time?
The first-time pass rate for the NCE is 82.6%. Statistical data shows that younger examinees enjoy a higher passing rate than those aged 40 or older. Still, proper preparation and studying can help you increase your chances of passing on your first try.
How Many Times Can You Take NCE?
You can take the NCE up to eight times after your initial registration; Four attempts per year over two years. After two years of consistent attempts, you will need to re-register (and pay any applicable fees) to attempt the exam again.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the NCE doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. When you have suitable study materials and practice exams at your disposal, you can significantly increase your chances of passing this exam on your first try.
In our opinion, the Mometrix University NCE Prep Course is the best overall choice. It offers more NCE practice questions, study guide reviews, and digital flashcards than our other top picks. You can also try it out for one week, free of charge!
James is on a mission to uncover the greatest study guides and prep courses to ensure you pass your exam on your first attempt. He has personally assessed hundreds of study materials and developed courses himself.
