2025 ASWB Advanced Generalist Exam Changes: What You Need to Know
The Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) is implementing major updates to the Advanced Generalist 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 Advanced Generalist 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 advanced practice:
I. Human Development, Diversity, and Behavior in the Environment – 23% Covers advanced understanding of human development, social systems, and the impact of diversity and discrimination.
II. Intervention Processes and Techniques for Use Across Systems – 32% Emphasizes direct practice skills, including advanced techniques for working with individuals, families, and groups.
III. Intervention Processes and Techniques for Use with Larger Systems – 18% Focuses on planning and implementing programs, services, and policies that affect larger systems and communities.
IV. Professional Relationships, Values, and Ethics – 27% Assesses knowledge of ethical standards, supervisory practices, and the roles and responsibilities of the advanced generalist.
How to Prepare for the 2025 Advanced Generalist Exam
ASWB provides helpful resources to guide candidates through the new testing process:
- ASWB Examination Guidebook (2025) – Detailed overview of the exam, testing policies, and what to expect at the test center.
- Online Practice Test – Includes retired exam questions to simulate the real testing experience.
- Exam Software Tutorial – Walkthrough of the Pearson VUE testing environment.
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 Advanced Generalist 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 Advanced Generalist exam prep app reflects the latest exam blueprint and competencies to help you study smarter.
