What Happens if You Fail the LCSW Exam?

The LCSW Exam contains 170 multiple-choice questions.

What Happens if You Fail the LCSW Exam?

The LCSW Exam contains 170 multiple-choice questions.

What Happens if You Fail the LCSW Exam?

The LCSW Exam contains 170 multiple-choice questions.


What Happens if You Fail?

A common question for those who are interested in pursuing a career as an LCSW is what happens if you fail the licensing exam. If you are in this position, just remember that there are options available for retaking the test and obtaining licensure.

Candidates who fail the ASWB Clinical Exam will be given diagnostic information about their exam. This report breaks down the examinee’s performance by content area and can help with studying for the next attempt.

There is a 90-day waiting period before you can retake the ASWB Clinical Exam. Some state licensing boards may limit the number of attempts, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations in your state.

Try Us for Free!

Test your exam readiness and take a free sample exam!

Take a Free Practice Exam

If you fail the LCSW exam, consider utilizing some of our proven study materials at Gerry Grossman.

Self Study Exam Prep:

Study for the LCSW Exam at your own pace with one of our Self-study exam prep packages. Self-study packages are perfect for those who have unpredictable schedules or otherwise prefer to prepare at their own pace.

Live Online:

Gerry Grossman Seminars offers comprehensive live online study sessions. These live online sessions are instructor-led and provide an interactive community to support candidates with their exam prep journey.

Learn more about our study materials and how to pass the LCSW exam by visiting our exam prep page at Gerry Grossman Seminars here.

Successfully Prepare for Your Exam

We have 35+ years of experience helping candidates like you.

View Our Social Work Materials

Curious about questions on the exam? Click here to learn how to pass the LCSW Exam.


Other Frequently Asked Questions


The LCSW Exam can be daunting, but with time, hard work, and the right materials, success is achievable! Before you begin studying, it’s important that you understand what will be covered and put together a study plan to guide you through the process.

Learn More

The LCSW Exam (aka the ASWB Clinical Exam) is a 4-hour test that consists of 170 multiple-choice questions. Only 150 of these questions are scored, while the remaining 20 questions are being tested for inclusion in future exams. Passing the LCSW Exam is required in order to become licensed as a Clinical Social Worker.

Learn More

The LCSW Exam is a multiple-choice exam that is designed to measure the core skills and knowledge necessary for a Clinical Social Worker. The LCSW exam is what social workers must take to become licensed by the state. In order to become a licensed social worker, you must pass what is known as the LCSW exam.

Learn More

It is important to familiarize yourself with the types of questions that appear on the exam. Many of the questions will present realistic clinical scenarios and ask the candidate to assess the client’s presentation.

Learn More

Gerry Grossman Seminars offers a variety of live and online courses to help you pass your Social Work Licensing Exam. At Gerry Grossman Seminars we offer live online workshops that offer an interactive learning environment, with the opportunity to engage directly with our expert instructors.

Learn More

Explore All Our Social Work Products

Workbooks and study aids to help you pass your ASWB LCSW Clinical Exam


Learn More