CHES Practice Test 2026 — Free CHES Exam Prep Questions
The CHES exam is NCHEC's entry-level certification for health education and promotion specialists working in communities, schools, worksites, health care and public health. Our practice questions are built on the Eight Areas of Responsibility (HESPA II 2020) and the 2025 exam weights. They cover needs assessment, planning theories, implementation, evaluation design, advocacy, health communication, management and ethics.
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CHES format, scoring & key facts
Computer-based at PSI test centers or by PSI Live Remote Proctoring. Block 1 is questions 1–88; after an optional 10-minute break (the exam clock keeps running) Block 3 is questions 89–175, and Block 1 can no longer be reviewed. A calculator is provided within the testing device.
| Exam | 175 multiple-choice questions (150 scored + 25 pretest) in 3 hours |
|---|---|
| Content basis | HESPA III 2025: Nine Areas of Responsibility, entry-level Sub-competencies (from the April 2027 exam) |
| Item format | Four answer options, one correct; no guessing penalty |
| Passing score | 600 on a 200–800 scaled score |
| Structure | Block 1 (Q1–88), optional 10-minute break, Block 3 (Q89–175); no return to Block 1 |
| Testing windows | April and October, ten days each; next window April 22 – May 1, 2027 |
| Fee | $300–$435 non-student / $250–$385 student, by registration deadline |
| Delivery | PSI test centers or PSI Live Remote Proctoring |
| Calculator | Provided within the testing device; personal calculators not allowed |
| Recertification | 75 continuing education hours every 5 years, plus annual renewal |
Facts last verified Nov 3, 2026. Source: assets.speakcdn.com/assets/2993/ches_handbook_oct_2026_final.pdf. Always confirm details with NCHEC before your exam.
When can you take the CHES?
Offered twice a year in ten-day April and October windows. The April 2027 exam runs April 22 – May 1, 2027; registration is open November 1, 2026 to February 28, 2027.
What the CHES covers
Every PrepBanq CHES test mirrors the official domain weights.
Domain distribution
% of the exam| Content domain | Weight | ≈ Questions on exam | Our practice questions |
|---|---|---|---|
AssessmentPlanning the assessment, obtaining primary and secondary data on needs and capacity, analyzing data, and summarizing and prioritizing findings. | 15% | ~23 | 23 questions → |
PlanningEngaging stakeholders, defining goals and SMART objectives, selecting models, theories and interventions, and planning implementation. | 15% | ~23 | 22 questions → |
ImplementationCoordinating resources and training, delivering interventions with fidelity, and monitoring implementation. | 12% | ~18 | 18 questions → |
EvaluationDesigning and conducting process, impact and outcome evaluation, and using and sharing results. | 15% | ~23 | 22 questions → |
ResearchSupporting research: credible sources, data collection and preparation, and applying findings to practice. | 3% | ~5 | 5 questions → |
AdvocacyIdentifying policy, systems and environmental change needs, engaging coalitions, advocating and evaluating advocacy. | 12% | ~18 | 18 questions → |
CommunicationsAudience analysis, communication objectives, theory-based messages, channels and materials, delivery and evaluation. | 13% | ~20 | 20 questions → |
Administration and ManagementProgram operations, human resources, fiscal and material resources, and strategic planning. | 5% | ~8 | 7 questions → |
Ethics, Leadership, and ProfessionalismEthical and legal practice, health equity, cultural humility and CLAS, serving as a resource, and professional development. | 10% | ~15 | 15 questions → |
How to register for the CHES
Eligibility
A bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree from an accredited institution, plus either a major explicitly in health education or at least 25 semester hours (37 quarter hours) of coursework, grade C or better, addressing the Nine Areas of Responsibility. Students graduating within 90 days of the exam may apply under the 90-day option.
Retake policy
You cannot retest in the same exam cycle; you may retake in the next consecutive cycle at a reduced rate. There is no limit on attempts.
Score release
A provisional pass/did-not-pass email arrives after you finish; the official scaled score report follows, with a proficiency level for each Area of Responsibility.
Credential renewal
Certification is valid for 5 years. Renew annually with the renewal fee and recertify every fifth year with 75 continuing education hours.
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CHES FAQ
How many questions are on the CHES?
The CHES has 175 questions (150 of them scored) and you have 3 hours to finish. Question types: Multiple choice only: 175 four-response questions with one correct answer (150 scored + 25 unscored pretest questions that are not identified). No penalty for guessing..
How long is the CHES exam?
Testing time for the CHES is 3 hours.
What is the passing score for the CHES?
CHES passing standard: Scaled score of 600 on a 200–800 scale. The passing point is set by the Modified Angoff method and held constant across forms by equating. Score range: 200–800 scaled.
How much does the CHES cost?
The CHES registration fee is Non-student $300 early bird / $360 regular / $435 final; student $250 / $310 / $385. Fees include a $100 nonrefundable processing fee if you are found ineligible or withdraw. Check the official site for current fees before you register.
What is on the CHES?
The CHES covers Assessment (about 15%), Planning (about 15%), Implementation (about 12%), Evaluation (about 15%), Research (about 3%), Advocacy (about 12%), Communications (about 13%), Administration and Management (about 5%), Ethics, Leadership, and Professionalism (about 10%).
Who administers the CHES?
The Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) Exam is administered by NCHEC. Delivery: Computer-based at PSI test centers or by PSI Live Remote Proctoring. Block 1 is questions 1–88; after an optional 10-minute break (the exam clock keeps running) Block 3 is questions 89–175, and Block 1 can no longer be reviewed. A calculator is provided within the testing device.
Can you retake the CHES?
You cannot retest in the same exam cycle; you may retake in the next consecutive cycle at a reduced rate. There is no limit on attempts.
Is there a free CHES practice test?
Yes. PrepBanq has 15 free CHES practice tests with 150 exam-style questions in the real CHES formats, and every answer is explained. No credit card is needed.
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