March 23, 2020

​

Dear Social Work Community:

​

These are challenging and tumultuous times for all of us.  At AWSB we are committed to making sure we communicate with the social work community and provide accurate, up-to-date information about testing for licensure.  This letter outlines what we know at this time about testing.

​

PEARSON VUE Test Centers

Our test vendor, Pearson VUE, has shut down all test centers in the United States and Canada from March 17 through April 15.

• All testing appointments during those dates have been canceled.

• Pearson VUE is allowing individuals to schedule exams on or after April 16.

• ​

Pearson VUE is expecting that test centers will experience very full schedules in the coming months.

• ASWB encourages individuals to schedule a testing appointment as soon as possible and take the first available time slot offered.

• Online scheduling is recommended for those who are currently registered and have a valid Authorization to Test from ASWB.

​

Pearson VUE​ test centers administer testing for many professions, certification programs, and academic assessments in addition to the social work licensing exams.

• Accommodating all individuals who need an appointment will place a significant strain on the system.

• At this time, we have no information about Pearson VUE's plans to expand test availability once testing resumes.

​​

Test approval expiration dates

ASWB has contacted all individuals whose test appointments were canceled and who have approvals expiring while the suspension of testing is in effect to provide support and assistance as these individuals work with their state boards to extend their approval time frame.

​

We hear your concerns

We realize that inability to test is causing many individuals stress and anxiety.  ASWB's COVID-19 web page offers resources for self-care as well as answers to many of the questions you are asking about current exam procedures.  We also are available to answer exam questions by email at candidateservices@aswb.org.

​

We thank you for your understanding and patience during this everchanging and unsettling time.  The virus and changes that result are evolving much more quickly than regulation or policy can.  Despite these challenges we are confident that working together, regulators, educators, and practitioners will resolve the many issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

​

Sincerely,

​

(Signed)                                                 (Signed)

Mary Jo Monahan, MSW, LCSW         Harold Dean, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C

ASWB Chief Executive Officer            ASWB Board President

​

​