The National Board of Executive Function Certification (NBEFC) has established a clear process for earning a professional credential. Each step ensures that candidates receive appropriate education, demonstrate competence through examination, and maintain high standards through continuing education and ethical practice.
The Board and the approved provider are committed to accessibility. All training materials, preparation resources, and examinations include closed captioning and are available in text format to support candidates who are hard of hearing or who require alternative formats.
Step 1: Complete Approved Education
All candidates must complete training through the approved accredited educational provider.
Current Approved Provider: The EF Institute
The training program is designed to:
- Educate candidates in executive function principles and applied strategies.
- Provide the educational foundation necessary to sit for the NBEFC examination.
- Conclude with a certificate of completion, which must be submitted with the exam application.
Step 2: Apply for the Examination
Candidates who complete the approved provider’s program may apply for the NBEFC examination.
Examination Details:
- Delivered online through the Board’s secure testing platform.
- Timed to ensure fairness and consistency.
- Evaluates knowledge, application, and ethical standards in executive function.
- Includes closed captioning and text-based accessibility options.
- Examination Format
- Format: Multiple-choice
- Number of Questions: 150
- Delivery: Online, through the Board’s secure testing platform.
- Timing: 3 hours (180 minutes)
- Scoring: Candidates must achieve a passing score of 75% to be awarded a credential.
- The examination is designed to measure knowledge, applied understanding, and ethical standards in the field of executive function. Each question offers four possible answers, with only one correct response.
Examination Fee: $675 (non-refundable)
Step 3: Preparation Option
Candidates may elect to purchase the Preparation + Exam Package through NBEFC. Inquire at the email on the bottom of the page, to purchase.
Preparation + Exam Package: $1,275 (non-refundable)
- Includes exam preparation materials.
- Includes one examination attempt.
- All preparation resources include closed captioning and text-based options for accessibility.
Step 4: Retake Policy
Candidates who do not pass the exam may retake it under the following conditions:
- A minimum waiting period of 30 days is required before retaking the exam.
- Each retake requires payment of a Retake Fee of $275 (non-refundable).
- Candidates may attempt the exam up to three times in a 12-month period.
- After three unsuccessful attempts, candidates must complete additional training through the approved provider before reapplying.
Step 5: Earn the Credential
Candidates who successfully pass the examination are awarded one of the following designations:
- NBEFC-C Credentialed Executive Function Coach
- NBEFC-E Credentialed Executive Function Educator (requires a degree in education and a teaching credential)
- NBEFC-T Credentialed Executive Function Therapist (requires an advanced degree and professional license)
Each credential holder receives a unique Credential ID number and is listed in the NBEFC public registry for verification.
Step 6: Credential Renewal
NBEFC credentials are valid for two years. Renewal ensures that professionals remain current and uphold the standards of the Board.
Renewal Requirements:
- Renewal Fee: $395 every two years (non-refundable).
- Completion of 40 continuing education units (CEUs) through the approved provider.
- Agreement to uphold the NBEFC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
Summary of Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Examination Fee | $675 | One exam attempt |
| Preparation + Exam Package | $1,275 | Includes study materials + one attempt |
| Retake Fee | $275 | Per attempt, after 30-day wait |
| Renewal Fee | $395 | Every two years, with 40 CEUs required |
Next Steps
Once you have completed training with the approved provider and received your certificate of completion, you may schedule your online examination or order the Preparation + Exam Package.
Please contact the Board at info@nbefc.org to begin the process.