2026–2030 NBHWC Content Outline
NBHWC Board Exam dates and application windows
The spring 2027 NBHWC Board Exam runs March 8–23, with applications open January 19–February 2. Summer testing runs July 19–August 3, but the official calendar and candidate packet give different application closing dates. Check myNBME before relying on the summer deadline.
What dates has NBHWC published?
Calendar checked November 12, 2026. The application window is when you submit your paperwork. The testing window is when approved candidates sit for the exam. Once you receive a permit, choose an available Prometric appointment within the window you applied for.
The fall 2027 dates come from the 2027 candidate packet. Check the live calendar before using them to book travel or organize time off. If a window is too close for your application documents or local seat availability, plan around the next published window.
| Testing window | Application period | Accommodation paperwork due |
|---|---|---|
| November 30–December 14, 2026 | September 28–October 12, 2026 (closed) | Check the 2026 candidate instructions |
| March 8–23, 2027 | January 19–February 2, 2027 | February 2, 2027 (2027 packet) |
| July 19–August 3, 2027 | Opens May 24, 2027. Verify closing date in myNBME. | June 6, 2027 (2027 packet) |
| November 29–December 14, 2027 | October 4–18, 2027 (2027 packet only) | October 18, 2027 (2027 packet) |
Which application deadline should you use?
For spring, the board calendar and 2027 packet agree on a January 19 opening and February 2 close. The separate coaching-log extension page shows January 4 as the opening. Use the main calendar to plan and confirm the application is open in myNBME before submitting.
For summer, the board calendar and coaching-log extension page list June 6, while the 2027 packet lists June 7 for applications and June 6 for accommodation paperwork. Aim to submit before the earlier date if you can. Confirm both cutoffs in myNBME and ask NBHWC if your account does not resolve the difference.
The board calendar gives a 5 p.m. Eastern cutoff using the label EST. The packet uses EST for spring and EDT for summer and fall closing deadlines. Check the time zone displayed in your portal and convert it to your local time before leaving any submission to the last day.
What happens between applying and choosing a test date?
- Choose the testing window before paying. Gather your approved training documentation, coaching log, and education or work documentation as instructed by NBHWC.
- Submit your complete application and any required accommodations paperwork by the deadline. If you need a coaching-log extension, register in myNBME before paying the extension fee. Save your training and education documents by the regular deadline and submit the application once your completed log is uploaded. Accommodation paperwork is still due by the regular deadline.
- Allow several weeks for review. The packet’s schedule estimates 15–30 days after a complete submission, then about a week for the permit after review. An accommodation request can affect permit timing.
- Use your permit to book a Prometric seat as soon as practical. Seat availability varies by exam, testing center, and date. Save the confirmation and check that the name matches your identification.
What if you need to change your plans?
The 2027 packet lists February 27, July 9, and November 19 as the respective spring, summer, and fall refund-request deadlines for eligible cancellations. Check your portal and current fee policy before canceling. If you booked a seat, canceling the Prometric appointment and withdrawing the exam application are separate steps.
A change within your approved window depends on seat availability and may incur a Prometric fee. Registration does not transfer to another testing window, so check the reapplication rules before making travel plans.