Social work involves providing care for individuals in your community who may need support with mental health, behavioral needs or family dynamics. Because of this scope of practice, all states require clinical social workers to be licensed, and some states require even non-clinical social workers to obtain licensure as well. 

Being a credentialed social worker can make a difference when it comes to professional opportunities, and it starts with studying for the social work license exam. Where necessary, aspiring social workers seeking licensure take the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s or clinical level, depending on the type of work they want to practice in their state. ASWB also offers an advanced generalist exam for individuals with an advanced knowledge in the field and a desire to work in social work administration and community practice.   

The following tips apply to all levels of the social work license exam but do not guarantee passing the exam or gaining licensure. 

Sponsored online social work programs

University of Denver

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The University of Denver’s Online MSW Program is delivered by its top-ranked school of social work and offers two programs. Students can earn their degree in as few as 12 months for the Online Advanced-Standing MSW or 27 months for the Online MSW.

• Complete the Online Advanced-Standing MSW in as few as 12 months if you have a BSW; if you do not have a BSW, the Online MSW Program may be completed in as few as 27 months.
• No GRE Required
• Customizable pathway options include Mental Health and Trauma or Health, Equity and Wellness concentrations

Request more info from the University of Denver.

Fordham University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Fordham’s skills-based, online MSW program integrates advanced relevant social work competencies, preparing students to serve individuals and communities while moving the profession forward. This program includes advanced standing and traditional MSW options.

•  Traditional and advanced standing online MSW options are available.
• There are four areas of focus: Individuals and Families, Organizations and Community, Evaluation, and Policy Practice and Advocacy.
• Pursue the degree on a full-time or part-time track.

Request more info from Fordham University.

Hawaii Pacific University

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Master of Social Work

The online Master of Social Work prepares aspiring social work leaders to develop a multicultural social work practice, advocate for social and economic justice, and empower diverse communities affected by systemic inequities within civilian and military-focused areas. 

• Learn how to develop a multicultural social work practice.  
• Pending accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
• Complete in 18 months full time, or in 36 months part time on the traditional track.
• Complete in 12 months full time or 24 months part time on the Advanced Standing Track. 

Request more info from Hawaii Pacific University.

Simmons University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Aspiring direct practitioners can earn their MSW online from Simmons University in as few as 9 months. GRE scores are not required, and the program offers full-time, part-time, accelerated, and advanced standing tracks.

• Prepares students to pursue licensure, including LCSW 
• Full-time, part-time, and accelerated tracks 
• Minimum completion time: 9 months

Request more info from Simmons University.

Howard University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The online Master of Social Work program from Howard University School of Social Work prepares students for advanced direct or macro practice in culturally diverse communities. Two concentrations available: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice. No GRE. Complete in as few as 12 months.

• Concentrations: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice
• Complete at least 777-1,000 hours of agency-based field education
• Earn your degree in as few as 12 months

Request more info from Howard University.

Syracuse University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Syracuse University’s online Master of Social Work program does not require GRE scores to apply and is focused on preparing social workers who embrace technology as an important part of the future of the profession. Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks are available.

• Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks
• No GRE required
• Concentrate your degree in integrated practice or clinical practice

Request more info from Syracuse University.

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Think back to previous exams or courses you’ve taken: How did you study for tests? What made you feel successful? Maybe pacing yourself through the study material or working with others to help each other learn more effectively is what did it for you.

For aspiring social workers who benefit from a lot of structure, study guides can help paint a picture of what to expect from the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), the national body that issues the social work license exam. Study guides may include strategies for how to prioritize learning and studying for each section of the exam, as well as examples of what questions might be asked during the test. If you’re wondering where to start, consider the ASWB study guide, which is published by the organization itself and can be purchased as an e-book or print edition.

To learn more about where the exam fits into your career path, familiarize yourself with the steps to become a social worker.

You don’t have to study for the social work exam alone. Joining a study group can help aspiring clinicians with social work test prep because they can share strategies and support each other. 

When working with a study group, take note of the type of social work licensure that other members of your group might have or are hoping to obtain because they may be able to help with understanding different levels of the exam or different experiences as a practitioner. 

Practice exams can be a helpful way to prepare for the real test, including knowing how to pace yourself on each question and track your progress with individual learning objectives. 

Exams typically take four hours and have 170 questions. ASWB offers practice exams for many different levels at a price of $85, and each practice test can only be taken once per purchase. 

Some aspiring social workers take the licensing exam while juggling a day job, family life and other mentally and physically demanding responsibilities. It’s important to prioritize mental and emotional health during social work exam prep — not only to ensure the mental capacity that is necessary to pass the exam, but also to help prevent burnout once you’ve gained licensure and begun practicing.

Self-care during social work exam prep may include scheduling breaks for rest, exercise and other health-focused activities. 

Before taking the ASWB exam, find out what items are necessary to have with you at the testing center, such as forms of identification or writing utensils. Check for any food and water limitations, bag restrictions, parking validation or other information about what you are allowed to bring inside. 

If you can, pack ahead for the day of the test, including a snack, a beverage or other necessities that may help you stay focused and alert during the exam. 

The resources below may be helpful when preparing for the exam but do not guarantee passing the test or gaining licensure. 

Aspiring social workers taking their first state-level licensure exam may have concerns about using an ASWB exam study guide. Social Work License Map answers frequently asked questions below:

Last updated November 2021.