CPC® Exam: Test Taking Strategies to Pass the First Time (2024)

FAQs

CPC® Exam: Test Taking Strategies to Pass the First Time? ›

Don't second-guess yourself.

To complete the CPC exam in the allotted 4 hours, you need to answer questions in about 2.4 minutes or less. Practice like an athlete to improve your pace. Keep practicing for test-taking skills. Eliminating answers is an effective strategy for both accuracy and time management.

The surest way to prepare for the CPC exam is to train with AAPC by enrolling in a CPC Certification Preparation Course. Designed by the creators of the exam, these courses will ensure you receive an effective and comprehensive education covering proper use of all medical code sets you'll encounter on the exam.

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?

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.

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.

Separate the questions into blocks of time, and work on one block of questions for a fixed amount of time before moving on to the next set. For example, you can divide the CPC exam into five groups of 30 questions. Take one hour for every thirty questions. Or you could try and take on 10 questions every 20 minutes.

You can purchase a CPC study guide from the AAPC website, and practice exams from the AAPC or AHIMA websites. Finally, if you're still unsure about self-studying, there are formal education programs available.

You should plan to study for the AAPC CPC exam for at least two months. The more you know without having to utilize the books during the exam, the better. You'll ensure that you finish all of the questions in the allotted time frame to achieve the highest possible score.

How many questions can I miss on the CPC exam? ›

How many questions can you miss on the CPC exam? In order to pass the Certified Professional Coder exam, you must get a score of at least 70% or higher, which means you may miss a total of 30 answers.

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.

To ensure accuracy and the quality of the exam, results will be available within 7-10 business days of completing the exam. This timeframe may vary based on volume and time of year. Results will show in the member area under MyAAPC > Exams in the exam details. Results are never given over the phone.

If you take the CPC exam online, the cost is $299 and you have one attempt at passing it. Take the exam in person at one of the assigned testing locations and the cost goes up to $399, but candidates have two attempts to earn a score of 70% or higher. AAPC membership is required to take the exam, which is another $180.

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. If you fail your first test, you are allowed one free retake.

The practical test involves demonstrating knowledge of vehicle safety and load securing. Preparing for the CPC test involves studying the course material, taking practice tests, and attending revision classes. While the test can be challenging, with proper preparation, most drivers are able to pass it.

You should plan to study for the AAPC CPC exam for at least two months. The more you know without having to utilize the books during the exam, the better. You'll ensure that you finish all of the questions in the allotted time frame to achieve the highest possible score.

You can take the exam as many times as you need to pass it, but don't forget about the CPC exam fees. As we've mentioned, it costs $499 to take the Certified Professional Coder exam, and with each payment you are also offered a free retake.