Prepare for the Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN®) Exam
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Complete the Exam Application
The first step in preparing for your exam is to review the eligibility criteria and all the additional information available in the exam guide. Then, complete the application. See the criteria and application options.
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Start Studying
If you meet all eligibility criteria, your application should be accepted. The Center for Nursing Education and Testing (C-NET) will send your exam permit for computer-based testing in 6-8 weeks or for paper-and-pencil testing two weeks before your exam date. There is no reason to wait to start preparing for the exam!
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Review the Exam Blueprint and Domains of Practice
A standard score of 95 (or about 71%) is required to pass the exam. Make sure you know what to expect by reviewing the following information:
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Find Study Resources or Take a Review Course
Our affiliated professional organization, the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN), offers numerous resources such as the Medical-Surgical Nursing Review Questions and the Core Curriculum for Medical-Surgical Nursing, which will help you to review for the exam. Learn about study aids from AMSN.
AMSN also offers a 2-day Certification Review Course in both live and independent study formats. See review course options.
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Make Your Final Preparations
Take the new, online CMSRN Practice Test!
If you are going to an unfamiliar exam site, locate the address, building, and room in advance of your exam date and if possible, drive to the location before your test date. Make sure to take into consideration traffic patterns and other circumstances when considering drive time.
The night before the exam, make sure to get plenty of sleep and set aside anything you'll need to bring with you (such as your exam permit, photo ID, and a sweater or jacket).
The day of the exam, allow plenty of time to arrive to the site, eat something, and calm your nerves using whatever healthy techniques work best for you.
Finally, take a deep breath and do your best! You possess a wealth of experience and the examination will allow you to demonstrate that knowledge. Good luck!
