CEN-RO by Exam

General Information

Exam Development
The CEN exam is based on a role delineation study. The exam is developed by a committee comprised of emergency department nurses whose knowledge and experience qualify them as experts in the field. Item writers throughout the country have developed questions for the exam. Item writers have been provided with specific instructions to follow when developing items for the exam. The items are reviewed, revised and approved by the exam development committee. AMP, BCEN’s test administration company, also reviews and edits the items to insure their conformity to testing and measurement principles.

Exam Specifics

• The CEN examination is a 175 item, multiple-choice exam. 150 of these items are scored while the remaining 25 (scattered throughout the exam) are pretest items and do not impact the CENs score.
• Passing score is 109 of the 150 scored items.
• Unsuccessful candidates are eligible to reapply for the exam three months after the date of prior testing.

Eligibility Requirements

• To renew CEN certification, the CEN must have a current unrestricted license or nursing certificate that is equivalent to a Registered Nurse in the United States or its territories. Any restrictions must be reported to the BCEN office.

Testing Information

• The CEN exam is offered 12 months of the year, Monday - Friday.
• The exam is offered through a network of testing centers. To view a complete list, go to www.goAMP.com
• The exam is offered in a format called computer based testing (CBT). Other than reading the questions on a computer screen and answering the question using a keyboard, it is just like taking an exam by paper and pencil.
• A maximum of three hours is allowed for the testing period.
• Score reports are received on-site, immediately after completing the exam. (Retain the score report for your personal records.)

Application Procedure

• Once the application is received and approved by BCEN, the 90 day window will begin. A handbook and authorization letter will be sent approximately two weeks after receipt of your application. Eligibility to take the exam will not be given over the telephone or sent by fax under any circumstances.
• Upon receipt of the authorization letter and handbook, the candidate will call the toll free number in the handbook to schedule the date and time to take the exam. The phone number and details regarding scheduling can be found in the handbook. Testing times are first come, first served, and require a four (4) day advance scheduling. BCEN will not schedule appointments to take the CEN examination.
• The candidate must schedule and take the examination within the 90 day window identified on the authorization letter. Failure to schedule and take the examination within 90 days of notification will result in forfeiture of all fees.
• No refunds or rescheduling will be granted beyond the 90 day testing eligibility period.
• Any changes in information could result in an additional fee to make corrections.
• The name on the application needs to match the identification that will be used when taking the examination.

Refunds

• No refund or rescheduling will be given to a candidate that fails to schedule and take the examination within the assigned 90 day window.
• Candidates who have submitted an application with fee and decide not to take the examination PRIOR to scheduling a testing time may receive a partial refund if BCEN receives a written request (via mail or E-mail) for a refund before the 90-day window ends. The refund is the registration fee submitted less a $50 processing fee.
• All refunds will be paid in U.S. dollars approximately two to four weeks after receipt of the refund request. Refund requests must be submitted in writing and sent to the BCEN office.

Testing Sites

Applied Measurement Professionals (AMP) provides the testing centers for the CEN exam. The Assessment Centers have been selected to provide accessibility to the most candidates in all states and major metropolitan areas. Specific driving directions and maps for each AMP Assessment Center location are available on AMP’s web site at www.goAMP.com.

Special Testing Site Arrangements (ADA Compliant)

Candidates with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity may be eligible for accommodation in the testing process to assure that the examination accurately reflects knowledge. The testing company and BCEN are fully compliant with ADA Guidelines and will provide reasonable accommodations. Further information may be found in the handbook sent to each candidate.

Alternate Test Sites

Candidates living more than 175 miles from an established center in the U.S. may be eligible for a special testing center. Special rules apply to this situation, which include a required minimum number of candidates. For further information see Alternate Test Sites.

International Testing

Candidates living outside of the U.S. must contact BCEN to determine what testing options are available.