Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for AANP FNP Exam

The AANP FNP certification exam is a great opportunity for nurses who want to take the next step in their careers. With this certification, also known as the Family Nurse Practitioner Certification Examination, nurses expand their practice capabilities. Many states require the AANP FNP certification for licensure.

Preparing for the exam is not an easy feat, with 150 questions that cover patient care, family practice, and more. Prepare for it here at Exam Edge.

What Are The Eligibility Requirements for the AANP FNP Exam?

Before applying for the AANP Family Nurse Practitioner Exam, you need to ensure you have the following prerequisites:

• You need to hold a Master's Degree in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on Family Nurse Practice.
• Be the holder of an Active and unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license within the United States.
• You must have completed the minimum number of supervised clinical hours in a family setting, as required by the AANP.

How To Apply for the AANP FNP Exam

Step 1: Create an AANPCB Online Profile

To access the AANP exam, visit the AANPCB website and create an online profile. Make sure your full legal name matches your government-issued ID. Then, enter the email address you want attached to your account.

Double-check your name and contact information. If you make a mistake here, it can cause delays in your application process. The name on your application should match the name on the photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.) you will bring to the testing center.

Step 2: Review the AANP FNP Candidate Handbook

Download the AANP FNP Candidate Handbook and review it. This handbook has all the essential details: eligibility requirements, the exam content, and how the certification process works. It’s by far the most comprehensive resource you can read to ensure everything goes smoothly when you’re getting ready for the AANP FNP.

Step 3: Complete the AANPCB Application

Fill out the online application form on the AANPCB website and pay the application fee with a credit card. You’ll need the following documents:

• Official Transcripts: Ask your school to send these to the AANPCB directly, as each school will have a distinct process.
• RN License Verification: Get proof that your RN license is active and in good standing. You can usually find this on your licensing board's website.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Create a detailed CV that shows your education, clinical experience (with a focus on family practice), certifications, and other relevant
activities.

Note: Always double-check your application details. Any missing information can impede your application process.

Step 4: Wait for the Application Review and Approval

After you submit your application, the AANPCB reviews it to decide if you're eligible for the exam. This can take a few weeks. Once the review process is done, they’ll contact you via the email you provided to let you know if you’ve been approved.

Step 5: Schedule the AANP FNP Exam with Prometric

Once your examination application receives approval, anticipate an email detailing how to arrange your testing appointment with Prometric. This can be accomplished via their official website or by reaching out to their customer support line.

Locate a Prometric examination center in your vicinity and select a date and time that allows for ample preparation. It's advisable to lock in your test date shortly after approval to secure the most convenient location and time for you.

Step 6: Prepare for the AANP FNP Exam

Practice exams are a great way to prepare for your certification test, and Exam Edge offers exams that closely match the AANP FNP exam. Practice tests help you identify areas where you need more study, improve your speed in answering questions, and get comfortable with the exam format. By preparing ahead of time, you can achieve the best results and help lower test anxiety by being familiar with the testing contents.

Check Other Resources for Exam Preparation

Begin your preparation for the AANP FNP examination by visiting the AANPCB official site. Utilize the recommended reading they provide to acquaint yourself with the format of the exam.

Next, dive into your FNP textbooks and study materials, making sure you pay close attention to the essential principles. Consider enrolling in an online review course as well. These courses simplify the content and offer additional practice questions for self-assessment.

Use practice exam and questions to find your weak areas. You can then focus in on subjects that are giving you trouble in the practice exam.

Follow These Exam Tips

Understand the structure of the AANP FNP exam in advance. By preparing up front and being aware of the questions and the time allocated, you can use your time while taking the test efficiently. Develop a plan for addressing challenging questions while still giving yourself enough time to get through the exam.

Important Considerations for the AANP FNP Exam

After your application is approved, you have 120 days to schedule and take the AANP FNP exam. If you miss the deadline, you'll need to reapply and pay the fees again. To reschedule or cancel your exam, follow Prometric's instructions. You can usually do this online or by phone.

Note: There's a service fee for submitting a paper application instead of applying online.

What to Expect on the AANP FNP Exam

In the AANP FNP examination, you'll encounter a series of multiple-choice questions, all to be answered within a designated time frame. The exam evaluates your understanding of crucial competencies required for Family Nurse Practitioners, including patient assessment, illness diagnosis, treatment planning, and outcome evaluation. Familiarizing yourself with both the structure of the exam and its core content areas can sharpen your study focus and boost your confidence when the exam day arrives.

How to Retake the AANP FNP Exam

If you don't pass the AANP FNP exam the first time, don't worry. You can retake it, but there are a few rules. Take note, you're limited to two attempts per year. Before your retake, complete at least 15 hours of continuing education in the areas where you need improvement. Check the AANPCB website for details on retake policies and fees.