NHA will release a new version of the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) study materials in Summer 2026 and exam coming in Fall 2026. We will provide more specific timeframes closer to launch. See below for more details.
Why is the CPCT/A exam being updated?
As the healthcare industry evolves, so do the roles and responsibilities of our healthcare workers. As your trusted, accredited certification provider, we work hard to ensure all NHA certification exams and their associated study materials accurately represent the skills and competencies needed to be successful in today's healthcare setting.
How much is the CPCT/A exam changing?
After a thorough job task analysis study with industry professionals, the new CPCT/A exam will be available in the Fall of 2026 with minimal impact to exam topics and content areas. We advise that you utilize the latest study materials for any learners sitting for the exam after Fall 2026. Please also note that anyone who tests and fails the exam 30 days prior to the launch of the new exam will need to retest with the new exam.
Updates have been made to the test plan for the upcoming new version of the exam—the new test plan and crosswalk resources are available at the end of this post.
NEW changes are coming to CPCT/A study materials.
The new CPCT/A study materials will feature content and functionality enhancements, as we continually look to evolve and improve our products to increase learner engagement. Content included in the latest study materials will differ slightly, as it has been developed in alignment with the new CPCT/A exam test plan.
The online practice tests will include a timed Baseline practice test to emulate the certification exam experience and give you a baseline score to gauge the knowledge level of the learner. Four formative practice tests will be available with rationales that are not timed, and a final timed practice test will emulate the certification exam experience. Best practices on how to administer these practice tests will be provided in the Implementation Guide when we launch the new study materials.
How can I prepare for the new exam?
Check out the resources below to help prepare for the upcoming CPCT/A changes and continue to check back for more information.
New CPCT/A Exam Test Plan (for exams after Fall 2026)
Review our upcoming test plan. The new CPCT/A exam will be launching in Fall of 2026. Learn more about how to read a test plan.
Current CPCT/A Exam Test Plan (for exams prior to Fall 2026)
Review our current test plan to be utilized for exams taken prior to launch of the new CPCT/A exam.
New CPT Exam Update Crosswalk Resource
This resource helps to identify the differences between the current exam test plan and the new CPCT/A exam so you can adequately adjust your program curriculum as needed. Learn more about how to read an NHA exam crosswalk.
