How hard is it to pass the NHA CCMA exam?

The NHA CCMA exam is considered challenging but manageable with proper preparation, covering broad clinical and administrative topics through 180 questions (150 scored) in 3 hours, with a 78% passing score needed. Its difficulty often depends on your foundational knowledge, the comprehensiveness of your study plan (practice tests, reviewing weak areas), and enduring the test's length, but dedicated study, especially on clinical scenarios and procedures, leads to success.

How many questions can you miss on the NHA CCMA exam and still pass?

The passing standard is 390 on a scale of 200 to 500 (you must answer 78% of the questions correctly).

What percentage of people pass the NHA CCMA exam?

NHA's CCMA Exam

The exam takes 3 hours and covers topics ranging from clinical patient care to administrative assisting. There are 180 multiple-choice questions and you must score at least 390 out of 500 to pass. The nationwide passing rate is 77%.

How many questions can you get wrong on the CCMA test?

If you answer at least 50% of the MCQs correctly, you can move on to the essays. On the other hand, if you incorrectly answer 49% or fewer MCQs, you cannot attempt the essays and will automatically receive a failing CMA score. Additionally, you are allowed 3 hours for the MCQs and 1 hour for the essay question.

How to pass the NHA ccma test?

To study for the NHA exam, start your preparations early, ensure your study materials are up-to-date and sufficient, and focus on the major topics that the exam covers, including foundational knowledge and basic science, anatomy and physiology, clinical patient care, patient care coordination and education, ...

PASS YOUR NHA CCMA EXAM IN 2025 | STUDY TIPS + WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW! Part 1

Is the NHA CCMA exam hard?

The NHA CCMA exam is challenging due to its breadth and scenario-based questions, but manageable with dedicated study, focusing on clinical workflow, procedures, and pharmacology; many test-takers find it difficult but pass with good preparation, using process of elimination, and understanding the material, not just memorizing practice questions. The key is thorough preparation, utilizing practice tests to identify weak areas, and understanding the concepts deeply, as the actual exam is often harder than the practice versions. 

How to pass the CMA exam on the first try?

Design an Effective Study Plan

1. Master the Exam Structure. The CMA exam tests your accounting and financial management skills and focuses on key areas essential for professionals. ...
2. Decide Which Part to Start First. ...
3. Customize Your Study Plan. ...
4. Practice Consistently. ...
5. Choose the Right Review Course.

What if I fail my CCMA exam?

It can be discouraging but happens sometimes. Try not to worry — if you don't pass after the first or second attempt, you are able to re-apply* to sit for the exam again after 30 days. Since you need to pay for every exam attempt you should use that time to prepare yourself for success.

How many hours to study for the CMA exam?

Average CMA study time for most candidates

On average, Part 1 requires 170 study hours, which you can cover in 10-13 weeks, and Part 2 takes 130 hours and 8-11 weeks. We recommend that candidates study a minimum of 12 hours each week.

What is the lowest score to pass the NHA CCMA exam?

What Score Do You Need to Pass the CCMA Exam? Potential scores range from 200 to 500, with 500 being the highest. You must get a score of at least 390, which is 78%, to pass.

How many times can you retake the CCMA exam?

To be eligible for the CCMA exam, you must either complete a medical assistant training program or have one year of medical assisting experience. The CCMA exam costs $155. You can attempt the test three times per year and must wait 30 days between each attempt.

Is NHA ccma better than other certifications?

Broad Industry Recognition. NHA certifications are widely recognized across the healthcare industry, particularly by larger healthcare networks, clinics, and hospitals. Some employers specifically prefer or require the CCMA certification for Medical Assistant roles, giving it an edge in certain regions or job markets.

Why is the CMA pass rate so low?

The CMA exam has lower pass rates because it tests for in-depth understanding and the ability to apply concepts in various scenarios. This means that to get a CMA passing score, candidates must not only memorize formulas and definitions but also understand how to use them in real-world situations.

What is the highest paid medical assistant?

The highest-paid medical assistants work in specialized fields like cardiology, dermatology, or oncology, in hospitals or research settings, and in high-cost-of-living areas (like NYC, SF) or leadership roles, potentially earning $65,000 to over $80,000 annually, with specialized skills, certifications, and union benefits boosting pay for complex duties like assisting with EKGs, minor surgeries, or managing clinical operations. 

How do I know if I passed my NHA exam?

You will receive an email notification when your results are available within the certification portal. For confidentiality, the notification email will not include your exam score.

Is the CCMA worth it?

Yes, CCMA certification is generally worth it as it significantly boosts job opportunities, often leads to higher pay (60%+ of employers offer more), provides faster entry into the field with less on-the-job training, and demonstrates competence to employers, validating your skills for a competitive healthcare market. While some experience can get you hired without it, certification offers better long-term security and career growth, though initial pay can vary.
 

Which part of the CMA exam is harder?

While it is important to enter the CMA Exam well-prepared in all areas, certain sections are notoriously more difficult than others. Many candidates find Internal Controls in Part 1 is the most difficult area.

How to pass CMA in 3 months?

Stay focused and study in concentrated 3-hour time intervals. Take a 1-hour break every three hours. Be sure to exercise – a healthy body is a healthy mind when it comes to these exams. Studying for three months, one hour a day is less effective than studying for one month at three hours a day from my experience.

Is CMA harder than CA?

Duration: CMA is a short-term course of 6-9 months, while CA is a professional course that takes about 5 years. Difficulty Level: CA is considered much more difficult than CMA. Job Opportunities: CA candidates have job opportunities in areas like financial management, taxation, and auditing.

Is it hard to pass the NHA CCMA exam?

The NHA CCMA exam is challenging due to its breadth and scenario-based questions, but manageable with dedicated study, focusing on clinical workflow, procedures, and pharmacology; many test-takers find it difficult but pass with good preparation, using process of elimination, and understanding the material, not just memorizing practice questions. The key is thorough preparation, utilizing practice tests to identify weak areas, and understanding the concepts deeply, as the actual exam is often harder than the practice versions. 

How long is CCMA certification valid?

The CCMA is valid for two years. Certification holders must earn ten continuing education credits and pay a fee in order to renew.

How long does it take to get your CCMA exam results?

Online Exams at an institution: Results will be available within 48 hours of your exam.

What is the best way to study for the certified medical assistant exam?

Use study guides, practice exams, and online resources to prepare for the CMA (AAMA) exam. The exam accurately reflects medical assistants' duties and required skills because it uses research-based data from the AAMA Occupational Analysis of Medical Assistants. These resources will help you study for the exam.

How many questions do you have to get right on the CMA exam?

You need a 360 to pass.

Based on the difficulty of the questions randomly selected for your exam, the number of questions that you got correct in the MCQs, and number of points you received on the essays, you are given a “scaled score” between 0 and 500. Note: 360 does NOT translate to 72%.

How can I improve my CMA pass rate?

5 Time-Tested Ways to Improve Your CMA Exam Score

1. 1) Practice MCQ & Essays Equally. ...
2. 2) Don't Memorize. ...
3. 3) Go Ahead, Change An Answer! ...
4. 4) Answer Every Question – Even If Guessing. ...
5. 5) Use All The Time You Have.