5.01: What is the CPC Exam? - MedicalBillingandCoding.org (2024)

FAQs

How many questions do you need to get right to pass the CPC exam? ›

Passing grades

An overall score of 70% or higher is required to pass the certification exam. For a passing score of 70%, you must get at least 70 questions correct. If you incorrectly answer more than 30 questions, you will not pass.

There's no doubt about it, the CPC^® exam is tough. A variety of sources show that ONLY about 50% of coders receive the necessary 70% score to pass the CPC^® Exam on the first try. That means that half of all test-takers need a second shot at passing. Who wants to take this test more than once?

Practicing for the CPC exam

Once you've studied, you'll want to take advantage of as many practice tests as possible. Treat practice exams like real tests. Study for them, follow time constraints, and note which questions you answered incorrectly. Go back and review the areas you struggled with.

AAPC's Official CPC^® Certification Study Guide is designed to help you prepare for the CPC exam. Twenty chapters will provide you with a thorough review of anatomy and medical terminology, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, and CPT^® coding, as well as appropriate use of modifiers.

In answer to your question, you could potentially pass the exams this way, but the best way to pass these exams without obtaining a two- or four-year degree is to take the AAPC's or AHIMA's online or classroom setting preparation courses.

You can attempt the CPC Core Modules three times

If a passing score of 80% is not achieved after three attempts, CE credit will not be received for the course. After successful completion the CPC Core Modules, you will not be able to go back and review the questions and answers.

In order to pass the CPC exam, you need to get a 70% or better on the test. Always keep that in mind when you're taking the test. The long, multi-part questions that might have you look up three, four, or five codes are worth the same as the general knowledge questions.

The CPC exam can be challenging as it covers a wide range of topics and requires extensive knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding guidelines. However, with adequate preparation and practice, passing the exam is achievable.

Most people complete the coursework and pass the exam in 6 to 12 months.

The most challenging specialties to code for are cardiology, nephrology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, pediatrics, and radiology. One particularly complex specialty is cardiology, which regularly sees amendments to its procedure rules, contractual changes, and codes.

How to crack the CPC exam? ›

You are only allowed to bring your three code books with you the day of the exam (your ICD-9, CPT, and HCPCS). The code books must be versions from the current or previous year. You cannot have anything attached/glued/stapled into your books, but you can highlight, tab, and have notes handwritten on the pages.

While some find the CPC theory test challenging, it can be manageable with proper preparation. Common challenges include the breadth of knowledge required and the pressure of a timed test. Overcoming these challenges involves thorough preparation and effective time management during the test.

You'll have to rely on your knowledge of code sets, medical terminology, best practices, and the coding process in general to pass. Individuals who earn a score of 70 percent or better (105 correct questions) will pass the CPC exam.

In order to pass the CPC exam, you need to get a 70% or better on the test. Always keep that in mind when you're taking the test. The long, multi-part questions that might have you look up three, four, or five codes are worth the same as the general knowledge questions.

To pass the CPC exam, you need to achieve a passing rate of 70 percent or higher. That means you must answer at least 105 questions correctly.

At AAPC, the pass rate of our CPC students exceeds 80%, which is unmatched by other programs and underscores the need to carefully select a medical coding school that will deliver a first-rate education.

How many times can I take the exam with each payment? Members taking the exam will receive 1 attempt unless they purchased the 2-exam bundle.