2025 ASWB MSW Exam Changes: What You Need to Know

The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) is implementing major updates to the Master of Social Work (MSW) licensing exam beginning March 31, 2025. These updates focus on enhancing the candidate testing experience while maintaining a rigorous standard of competency measurement. Here’s what you should know:

Transition to Pearson VUE Testing Centers

Starting March 31, 2025, all ASWB exams will be administered exclusively at Pearson VUE test centers. This move will ensure a standardized, secure, and accessible testing environment for all candidates.

  • Testing pause: Exams will not be administered from March 16–30, 2025, to support the transition.
  • Automatic registration transfer: Candidates registered but untested by March 15, 2025, will be transferred to Pearson VUE. Expect detailed instructions via email.

Exam Format and Structure

The MSW exam will still include 170 multiple-choice questions (150 scored items and 20 unscored pretest items).

Time limit: 4 hours

ASWB continues its gradual shift to three-option multiple-choice questions, started in 2023. This change reduces complexity without sacrificing rigor.

Exam Content Outline with Percentages

The exam is divided into four content areas. Each reflects essential knowledge required for safe and effective practice:

I. Human Development, Diversity, and Behavior in the Environment – 27% Covers lifespan development, social systems, and the influence of diversity and discrimination.

II. Assessment and Intervention Planning – 24% Focuses on gathering client data, assessing needs, and planning interventions.

III. Interventions with Clients/Client Systems – 24% Emphasizes applying evidence-based techniques across individuals, families, and groups.

IV. Professional Relationships, Values, and Ethics – 25% Tests knowledge of ethical standards, professional responsibilities, and client-worker relationships.

How to Prepare for the 2025 MSW Exam

ASWB provides helpful resources to guide candidates through the new testing process:

Registration & Scheduling

After receiving authorization from your state board, register for the exam directly through ASWB. Once approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email that allows you to schedule your exam through Pearson VUE. It’s best to schedule early to secure your preferred date and location.

Study Confidently with Pocket Prep

With these changes, the ASWB MSW exam is evolving to better reflect the skills needed in today’s social work landscape. Use the new resources and tools available to prepare with confidence for your licensing journey in 2025 and beyond.

Pocket Prep’s ASWB MSW exam prep app reflects the latest exam blueprint and competencies to help you study smarter.