*This post has been updated to reflect the ASWB Examination Guidebook, effective March 31, 2025.

The ASWB Advanced Generalist exam tests the skills and knowledge of experienced non-clinical social workers. Here’s everything you need to know in 2025.

ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam Overview

The ASWB Advanced Generalist exam contains 170 multiple-choice questions. Of these, 150 are scored and 20 are pretest items that are unscored. Candidates have 4 hours to complete the exam. It is designed for social workers with a master’s degree and experience in non-clinical practice areas.

Content Areas

I. Human Development, Diversity, and Behavior in the Environment (23%)

  • Understand theories of human growth, development, and behavior across the lifespan, including biological, psychological, and social dimensions.
  • Analyze family dynamics and group functioning to support effective interventions across various cultural and social backgrounds.
  • Evaluate the effects of physical and mental health conditions on families, particularly in caregiving and bereavement contexts.
  • Apply knowledge of trauma, violence, separation, and loss and their lasting impact on individuals and communities.
  • Assess how environment, discrimination, privilege, and oppression influence identity and behavior.
  • Apply models of organizational development, social change, and community development in practice.
  • Interpret the role and effects of institutions and criminal justice systems on marginalized populations.

II. Intervention Processes and Techniques for Use Across Systems (32%)

  • Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, including strengths and risk assessments.
  • Apply culturally appropriate and trauma-informed methods to gather sensitive data on issues such as abuse, addiction, and violence.
  • Develop tailored intervention plans using client motivation, stages of change, and measurable goals.
  • Implement crisis intervention strategies for individuals and families in acute situations.
  • Use CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and psychoeducation to support client growth and coping skills.
  • Facilitate therapeutic interventions for couples, families, and groups, integrating empowerment and strengths-based perspectives.
  • Coordinate care, plan for aftercare, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions over time.
  • Use supervision and consultation to ensure ethical, high-quality service delivery across all systems.
  • Engage in interprofessional collaboration and navigate organizational policies impacting service access.

III. Intervention Processes and Techniques for Use with Larger Systems (18%)

  • Design, implement, and evaluate programs to address community or organizational needs.
  • Establish clear program objectives, measurable outcomes, and continuous quality improvement mechanisms.
  • Lead and participate in community organizing, advocacy campaigns, and social planning initiatives.
  • Mobilize stakeholder participation to influence policies and advance equity in service access.
  • Collaborate across systems using strategic planning, resource allocation, and policy development frameworks.
  • Apply knowledge of power structures, organizational change models, and governance in influencing systems-level change.

IV. Professional Relationships, Values, and Ethics (27%)

  • Demonstrate knowledge and application of the NASW Code of Ethics and the six core values of the profession.
  • Maintain professional boundaries, manage dual relationships, and engage in appropriate self-disclosure.
  • Ensure client confidentiality, secure informed consent, and fulfill mandated reporting responsibilities.
  • Commit to lifelong learning, self-reflection, and self-care to maintain competence and prevent burnout.
  • Apply ethical decision-making frameworks to complex dilemmas involving legal, cultural, or organizational issues.
  • Use technology ethically for documentation, communication, and service delivery in accordance with best practices.
  • Document client interactions and service delivery in compliance with legal, ethical, and organizational standards.
  • Advocate for client empowerment, informed decision-making, and equitable access to resources.
  • Actively address diversity, cultural humility, and anti-oppressive practices in all areas of service.

Advanced Generalist Exam Study Tips

  • Use the official ASWB Guidebook to track your progress through content areas
  • Take timed mock exams to simulate the real test environment
  • Focus on strengthening ethical reasoning and systems-level intervention strategies
  • Form or join a study group to review key concepts collaboratively
  • Plan regular self-assessments to check readiness before your test date