NP Scrubs Blog - Nurse Practitioner Exam Tips & Resources

Expert articles, study tips, and resources for nurse practitioners preparing for AANP and ANCC FNP certification exams.

How Many Practice Questions Do You Really Need for the FNP Exam?

By NPScrubs.com | April 7, 2026

Success on the FNP exam isn’t about completing a certain number of practice questions, it’s about thoroughly reviewing and learning from each one, including those you get right. A smaller, focused set of questions can be far more effective if you take the time to truly understand the concepts behind them.

2026 Guide to AANP FNP Exam Dates & Deadlines

By NPScrubs.com | March 12, 2026

What is 2026 FNP certification exam schedule administered by AANP Certification Board? The great news is that there are no national test dates. Unlike some board exams that have set national exam dates, the AANP does not have fixed test dates published months in advance. Instead:

What are Passing Scores on the AANP and ANCC FNP Exams?

By NPScrubs.com | March 3, 2026

The AANP (pass at 500/800) and ANCC (pass at 350/500) use scaled scores based on competency, not percentages. While pass rates are generally in the 80% range, success depends on preparation and a strong content knowledge base.

Top FNP Practice Question Banks (Pros & Cons)

By NPScrubs.com | February 26, 2026

Top FNP prep websites include UWorld , BoardVitals , Kaplan, Fitzgerald, and Sarah Michelle NP Reviews. Each has strengths depending on your learning style and budget. NPScrubs.com keeps it simple and NP-focused and budget-conscious pricing designed.

What To Know After You Register for the AANP Exam:

By NPScrubs.com | December 12, 2025

Here’s everything I wish someone had clearly explained to me after registering. Use this guide to stay on track and avoid unnecessary stress.

After the NCLEX: Mastering the Nurse Practitioner Exam

By NPScrubs.com | November 12, 2025

You Passed the NCLEX… Now It’s Time for Your NP Exam Graduating from your nurse practitioner program is a huge accomplishment, and if you’re here, that means you’ve already been through one of the biggest tests of your life: the NCLEX. So you might be wondering, how different can the AANP or ANCC exam really be?

How to Effectively Prepare for the AANP and ANCC Family Nurse Practitioner Exams

By NPScrubs.com | June 1, 2025

YOU NEED A STUDY PLAN! Average Preparation Time: Most nursing students spend 3-6 months preparing for the AANP and ANCC FNP exams. Your exact duration depends on your baseline knowledge, work schedule, and study habits. If you have a strong foundation, it may take only 1-2 months. Takeaway message: AVOID CRAMMING FOR THE EXAM!

Choosing Between the ANCC and AANP Family Nurse Practitioner Exams: Which Path is Right for You?

By NPScrubs.com | May 23, 2025

Choosing between the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) and AANP (American Association of Nurse Practitioners) certification exams is a big decision for any aspiring Family Nurse Practitioner.

Inside the AANP FNP Exam: What I Wish I Knew Before Test Day

By NPScrubs.com | May 15, 2025

When I was preparing for the AANP Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam, I remember constantly wondering, What kind of questions are they going to ask? Who’s writing these? Am I even studying the right way?

Do the AANP and ANCC Nurse Practitioner Exams Differ by State?

By NPScrubs.com | May 7, 2025

The short answer is no, they do not differ! The AANP (American Association of Nurse Practitioners) and ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center) exams are National Certification Exams, meaning they are recognized across ALL states in the United States.

When to Take the FNP Exam After Graduation?

By NPScrubs.com | May 1, 2025

Studies consistently show that FNP students who take their board exam within 3 months of graduation have the highest pass rates. Why? Because the information from your coursework is still fresh in your mind, and you haven’t yet lost the study momentum you built up during school. The key is to stay in study mode, sharpen your test-taking skills, and reinforce what you already know with targeted review and practice questions.

Three Nursing Books for the FNP Exam to Review

By NPScrubs.com | April 17, 2025

Wondering What Nursing School Books to Review for the AANP FNP Exam? If you're deep into studying for the AANP Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam, you're probably asking yourself: “Do I really need to dust off my nursing school textbooks?”

What do I do after I failed the AANP or ANCC FNP Exam?

By NPScrubs.com | March 1, 2025

The reality of not passing the AANP or ANCC exam can be disheartening. However, many successful nurse practitioners have experienced this setback. Here’s our quick guide on the actions you can take next to turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth.

Nurse Practitioner Exam Pass Rates

By NPScrubs.com | February 15, 2025

Hey future NPs! Let’s discuss a topic our team gets asked about: the pass rates for the AANP and ANCC exams. If you’re prepping for certification, understanding these stats can help you focus your study strategy and feel more confident heading into exam day. AANP Exam Pass Rates:

2025 AANP Exam Blueprint

By NPScrubs.com | February 1, 2025

The 2025 exam follows the 2024 FNP Exam Blueprint. That means no major changes, no surprises—just the same reliable framework to guide your study plan. What Is the AANP Exam Blueprint?

 What to Expect on Test Day: My Experience with the Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

By NPScrubs.com | December 1, 2024

As a nurse practitioner who’s been through the process, I know firsthand how nerve-wracking it can be to prepare. Understanding what to expect on test day can make a huge difference in your confidence and performance. Let me share what I experienced and some tips to help you feel more prepared.

Do I need to know lab values for the AANP or ANCC family nurse practitioner exam?

By NPScrubs.com | November 21, 2024

Will Normal Ranges Be Provided? One of the most common questions I hear from candidates is whether normal lab value ranges will be provided during the exam. The answer is yes—the AANP and ANCC exams typically provide normal reference ranges when presenting lab results in a question.

Feeling Lost as you study for your nurse practitioner exam? Here’s How to Get Back on Track!

By NPScrubs.com | November 1, 2024

Preparing for your certification exam can feel overwhelming, especially if practice questions are your main study material. You might wonder, “Should I dig up my old pharmacology notes or dive back into the textbooks?” Don’t worry; you’re not alone and exactly where you need to be!

Navigating AANP and ANCC Exam Retakes: What RNs taking the FNP exam need to know!

By NPScrubs.com | October 25, 2024

As a first-time or repeat test taker, understanding the retake policies for the AANP and ANCC exams is crucial! If you find yourself needing to retake the AANP exam:

Which Topics Are Commonly Tested on the AANP and ANCC Nurse Practitioner Exams?

By NPScrubs.com | September 18, 2024

Both exams assess your knowledge, clinical reasoning, and ability to provide safe and effective care. However, they differ slightly in content and emphasis, so knowing what to expect is important.

Staying Motivated for the Family Nurse Practitioner Exam: A Balanced Approach to Studying

By NPScrubs.com | September 1, 2024

Preparing for the AANP or AANC exam can feel overwhelming, but remember—this exam is designed for entry-level family nurse practitioners. You’ve already completed a rigorous program to get here. So, if you're thinking, "What if I just focus on practice questions?" you’re on the right track! But adding a bit more structure to your studying can make a big difference.

Is It Worth Becoming a Member When Registering for the AANP or ANCC Nurse Practitioner Exams?

By NPScrubs.com | August 1, 2024

If you plan to take the nurse practitioner certification exams through the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), you’ve likely noticed that the registration fees differ for members and non-members. You may be asking yourself, is it worth becoming a member to save on exam registration? Here’s a quick comparison of the costs for the two major NP exams: