National Certification

National certification represents a national standard of preparation, knowledge, and practice. To assist with this recognition, the National Board for Certification of School Nurses (NBCSN) provides the opportunity for school nurses to set the standards for their specialty area through voluntary professional certification. NBCSN has trademarked NCSN as the official credential of the Nationally Certified School Nurse. All candidates successfully completing the national examination are eligible to use this credential.

For information on testing Window and Registration Windows, Click here.

  • Fall Testing Window: October 24 – November 24, 2024
    • Application Window: August 12 – September 24, 2024

The exam will be available for three testing windows in 2025:

  • Spring Testing Window: March 1 – 31, 2025
    • Application Window: November 25, 2024 – February 1, 2025
  • Summer Testing Window: July 7 – August 10, 2025
    • Application Window: April 1 – June 7, 2025
  • Fall Testing Window: October 23 – November 23, 2025
    • Application Window: August 11 – September 23, 2025

Search the full list of NCSNs.

NBCSN Liaisons

NBCSN Liaisons serve as a resource on national certification.

Wendy Harsch

Cindy Avery

View a list of state liaisons