Our National AMFTRB Exam Study System includes INSTANT on-line access to:
- An organized, step-by-step study plan
- 19 on-line audio workshops with downloadable HANDOUTS
- Complete review of essential content areas
- Effective MFT exam study tools — Top 50 Topics Tested, Law & Ethics Quiz, Theory Review, DSM 5 Review
- Clinical examples that help you learn instead of memorize
- Clear test-taking strategies you will use on exam day
- 750+ ON-LINE practice questions with audio rationales
- Test anxiety management
- MFT Exam Prep Coaches available for on-going questions and support
This program is designed to maximize learning and minimize stress. The program takes approximately 55 hours to complete once and can be repeated as needed. Access is set for 6 months, but extensions are FREE. We are with you until you pass!
Our National MFT Exam Study System is for ALL states EXCEPT CALIFORNIA. For California please see California Law and Ethics Prep or California MFT Clinical Prep.
"I like how organized, detailed and repetitive your program is laid out. I have used other online programs and books for the National MFT exam and they gave too much information that overwhelmed me. Your program definitely covers the topics and your mock exams are great examples of questions on the exam. Thank you." -Jill Fishman
National MFT Exam Prep FAQs
1. What is the structure of the AMFTRB National MFT Exam?
The AMFTRB National MFT Exam is a computer-based standardized exam. The exam includes 200 multiple-choice questions. Test takers are given 4 hours to complete the exam questions. Special accommodations can be requested by individuals who meet the criteria based on the Americans with Disabilities Act. In addition, certain states provide special arrangements for English Language Learners (see below for additional information).
2. What is the passing score for the AMFTRB National MFT Exam?
The passing score for the National MFT Exam is established by a panel of expert judges and will change with each exam testing period. The passing score will shift up or down depending on the determined level of difficulty of each exam question; the easier the questions, the higher the passing score, and the more difficult the questions, the lower the passing score. The majority of states will use the passing score that is set by the AMFTRB; however, some jurisdictions set their own passing score. Test takers do not receive their results immediately; scores are sent to appropriate state licensing board and mailed to you within 20 business days of your exam date.
3. When will I be eligible to take the AMFTRB MFT National Exam?
Eligibility to sit for the exam will differ for each state that accepts the AMFTRB National MFT Exam for licensure. You will need to contact your state licensing board for the application and to determine eligibility requirements. Once you are approved by your state licensing board to sit for the AMFTRB National MFT Exam, you will receive an approval letter that will include an approval code and a link to the PTC Online Application System. Once you receive approval, complete the PTC application and submit payment for the examination/testing fee. PTC will email you a Candidate ID and Scheduling Authorization within 6 weeks of your testing period.
4. How often is the AMFTRB MFT National Exam administered?
The AMFTRB National MFT Exam is administered one week each month. The schedule for upcoming exam periods can be found here.
5. How can I apply for accommodations?
Accommodations are available for test takers with disabilities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you would like to request special accommodations, complete the online application (at least 8 weeks prior to exam date) and attach the appropriate documentation (i.e. doctor’s letter).
6. Does my state provide special accommodations for English Language Learners?
The following states provide special accommodations for English Language Learners:
Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
The following states do not provide special accommodations:
Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, New York, Utah, Washington
(see here for updates)
7. What do I do if I am licensed in California and moving to a different state?
The answer to this question will vary based on the state you are moving to and requirements established by the state’s MFT licensing board. The first step will be to apply to the state MFT licensing board. Once that state MFT board reviews your application and credentials, they will inform you of any deficits or if you are eligible to sit for the AMFTRB National MFT Exam. You must apply to sit for the National MFT Exam through the state’s MFT licensing board in which you plan to practice. You cannot sit for the exam without taking this step. Here is an overview of requirements by state.
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences is actively pursuing increased reciprocity for MFTs. To date, several states will accept the California MFT Clinical Exam, which means MFTs moving to these states may not have to take the AMFTRB National MFT Exam. Check with the state’s licensing board to determine if the California MFT Exam will fulfill the exam requirement.
8. How does the California MFT Clinical Exam compare to the National MFT Exam?
The National MFT Exam has more questions than the California MFT Clinical Exam (200 versus 170). The content areas have some overlap, but the National MFT Exam covers more domains (aka knowledge areas). The domains that are tested on the National MFT Exam can be found here. The National MFT Exam has a larger share of recall-based questions, whereas the California Clinical MFT Exam is mostly comprised of reasoning-based questions. However, The National MFT exam does include exam questions that will test your critical thinking skills.
9. Can I use the California Clinical MFT Exam prep program to prepare for the National MFT Exam?
There is some overlap between the content that is tested on the National MFT exam and the California Clinical MFT exam. However, there are also significant differences in the content and types of questions that appear on each exam. Each program teaches the content and strategies designed to meet the unique needs of each exam. For this reason, it is not appropriate to use one program for both exams. If you are using TDC to prepare for both exams we would be happy to give you a discount code as a thank you for your loyalty.
Course Reviews
TDC successfully got me through both of the CA MFT Exams, as well as the MFT National Exam. Amanda's professional and academic expertise in the neurological processes involved in learning, and particularly in optimizing the test taking experience, helped to break down the study material into digestible bites that were easier to retain and recall in a testing environment. My experience of working with Amanda and her team in both of the MFT study programs was overwhelmingly positive and provided an organized and concise overview of counseling basics that not only helped me to effectively pass the exams, but also reinforced my knowledge of the foundations involved in being a competent counselor. As such, I utilize my notebook of quick studies and other TDC materials in my practice as a reference guide for case conceptualization and treatment planning. My advice to anyone looking for a study course on either of the MFT licensing exams is to take the TDC course and follow Amanda's learning and test-taking protocol precisely. You won't be sorry. I had spent a lot of money on another program and just felt overwhelmed by the material. Then I learned about TDC's program and signed up first for the CA Exams and later the National Exam. Amanda helped me to reduce my overwhelm and build confidence toward having a desirable outcome. To my knowledge, TDC is simply the best study course out there.
In the past, I have tried three other study systems and free online helps. The TDC method assisted me in interacting with the material in a practical manner that resulted in real-world answers. I was so excited to get an 81% on the test when the passing score was 71%!
Thank you for your support! The exam prep was really comprehensive. Not only did it help me pass the exam, but it helped me brush up on valuable information/skills that have enhanced my clinical practice. I highly recommend this program.
I passed the National MFT Exam on the first try (with a great score) using the TDC! Not only did I feel prepared, use the testing strategies during the exam, PASS the exam, but I also feel confident that I know so much more than prior to the TDC program. Highly recommend!
I've been out of grad school for over three years, working very part-time as an ALMFT and part-time stay at home dad, so my academic recall was shaky at best when it came time to study for the national MFT exam. This course was thorough, very informative, and the best thing is that it was guided step by step. It was not simply access to an information dump, but a process through it. It was a perfect course for taking the exam. It even helped me with some weak area's in my professional knowledge, for example my understanding of the DSM, which is now more of a strength. How you are taught to approach the test itself and each question is invaluable in studying for this exam. I feel like access to this course ought to be encouraged if not provided as a post-grad "gift" (aka through your tuition) from all MFT programs to study for the exam. The price is not cheap, but it is worth it for your best chance to pass the exam in one swing, and you can maintain access to the materials until you do.
I have no idea how anyone takes this exam without this study program. Everything about this program was helpful in preparing me, supporting me, and increasing my confidence! I passed with a 79.5% which is incredible-- I got 14 more points than needed to pass and I know it's because I learned how to read each question and determine what they were looking for.
I cannot recommend this program enough and have already told many about it. Invest in yourself and in completing this final burning hoop of licensure!
I was surprised to learn that I had passed the exam due to not being able to sleep the night before as I struggle with test anxiety. Not only did I pass but I got a higher score than on any of the practice tests, a score to be proud of. So this is a true testament that the information presented is done in such a way that we truly absorb it and we are able to digest it such that you can perform even on little to no sleep. I went through the program diligently (twice) and took the practice exams the maximum times allowed. I have already recommended the class to all my cohort that is studying right now. In addition, there is significant knowledge in this course that will benefit me in my career moving forward. Thank you for taking the time to develop this course, I am very grateful.
This program helped me pass the exam on my first attempt! Thank you for the great preparation, Amanda!
Thank you so much for providing a study system that truly prepared me for the exam! If I had your study system the first time I would not have needed to take the exam a second time. I can't recommend your program enough! I have tried other study materials and there is no comparison. After using your program I sat for the exam with confidence and passed! I have already recommended your program to many others who are struggling to prepare for the exam. Thank you again!! -Jay
I took the MFT exam 3 times previously to using this study guide and I can say with a great deal of confidence that this study guide was the key to my success. It helped me understand the test and not just a bunch of facts that I had previously tried to remember. I really started to second guess myself with my previous failures and after using this study guide, I felt much more confident in my ability to pass the exam and I did! A big thank you for all your hard work in creating such a wonderful and very helpful study exam. I would suggest everyone who is interested in passing follow the steps laid out in the exam and put some hard work into it and you will also find yourself with a passing score.
It is important to study the material well, to become so familiar with it, own it, so that the categories and way of thinking become part of you. It requires going through several times to catch the details and all of the parts of it. Analysing the mock exams in light of the 50 topics and other material presented provides what is necessary to pass the exam. I used two other programs as well, one only to take further practice tests and the other to complement information. I don't think I would have needed to do that, but it was more of an assurance for me.
I can hardly believe it! I was convinced I had failed. I even emailed Asya and asked if I could extend my membership because I was convinced I would have to take it again. I have been out of school for 24 years and have avoided getting my license because I did not feel I could pass the exam. I am not a good test taker and have a great deal of test anxiety. However, after purchasing TDC exam prep, taking the mock tests, and finally speaking with Asya the week of the test, my confidence grew. I began to feel I had a shot at passing. What I didn't expect is that studying for the exam reignited my passion for the field and has helped me become a better clinician. When I opened the email this morning and it said CONGRATULATIONS I burst into happy tears. I am so very grateful for this program and the staff at TDC. Now with all my hours completed and passing my exam, I am on to be a licensed marriage and family therapist in Colorado. Thanks TDC! I am so grateful.
TDC not only prepared me for the exam but it increased my confidence in my clinical skills! I bought this system at the right time as I started a new job! I am so thankful I used TDC! I passed my MFT exam on my second attempt! The mock exams and exam preparation tips were so helpful! Thank you Amanda for your amazing tips and Asya for always being so responsive and encouraging!
I highly recommend the TDC program. I think it is the most up-to-date program available, unlike other programs that bit around the bush.
God bless you all for all you are doing to help others pass.
You are the best!
I utilized another program on my first attempt at the national mft exam. They sent me volumes of information with no way for me to conceive of how to use the information. It was if they expected I would just memorize books of information. Prior to my second attempt I purchased the program from the therapist development center who sent me a well organized program that laid out a study schedule. Which in itself was so much better! however between the lectures, tests, and test reviews I learned so much in a short period of time. In addition the breakdown of the DSM 5, along with explaining how several diagnosis are the same, with exception to diagnostic time-frames was brilliant! It allowed me to quickly sort through the correct diagnosis on the exam. This is by far the best program of study that I have come across and would recommend it to everyone. Oh and I passed with this program, with only about 3 weeks of preparation!
This study system helped me conceptualize the test differently than my previous attempts. After using this method I was able to see the questions clearly without the test anxiety or reading too much into them. I highly recommend this system. Thank you TDC!
I was recommended TDC by a couple of people who had graduated from the cohort before mine. There words went something like "this system really prepared us in a way that our program didn't". I was going to be a first time exam taker, and from everything that everyone says about how hard the test was going to be, I was extremely anxious to start studying for it. I did not know where to start, or even what exactly I should focus on that would get me prepared enough to pass. I took the word of my colleagues and decided to pay for the TDC system. I must say that this study system prepared me in a way that I could not have done on my own. It organized the material in a way that I could focus on what was most important to know for the exam, and not spend my time on certain aspects that would not matter in the long run. The best thing that TDC taught me were the strategies for thinking through test questions and how to outsmart the test format. I must say that the TDC study system made the test feel like the breeze. I passed with a 168/200, all because of TDC.
TDC prepared me by strengthening my testing skills and by showing me my weaknesses and strengths, specifically when it comes to this exam. Most importantly, TDC educated me on what the test will be on and the goal of the test makers. This gave me the knowledge I needed to know and the wisdom of when to apply it. Specifically, I would like to thank Asya for answering my countless questions and concerns for the past few weeks! Thank you. It clearly helped!
This study course was an excellent resource! I do not feel I would have been able to pass the exam on my first try if I was left to my own devices to determine what and how to study. This study course allowed me to stay organized, practice strategies learned, and still have a life while feeling very prepared by the time of my exam. I passed with an 86% which shocked me! Thank you so much for developing this study course.